COOK COUNTY, Ill. — A Cook County jury recently awarded a significant sum exceeding $66 million to a family following a tragic incident where a woman died after a cosmetic surgery procedure in 2019. The case has been highlighted as one of the most substantial medical malpractice verdicts for wrongful death in the state of Illinois.
The lawsuit involved Idalia Corcoles, a 39-year-old Chicago resident and mother of four, who initially visited the 63-laser and skin clinic located near 63rd and Pulaski Road for a tummy tuck and liposuction. The surgery was conducted by Dr. Ayoub Sayeg, an out-of-state plastic surgeon who travels to Chicago for such operations.
During the procedure, Corcoles showed alarming signs of distress, manifesting in the form of significant blood loss and dropping blood pressure, according to Brad Cosgrove, the family’s attorney from Clifford Law Offices. However, the severity of her condition was reportedly underestimated by the medical staff present.
Post-surgery, Corcoles’ health further deteriorated, yet attention by Dr. Sayeg was allegedly inadequate; he proceeded to attend to another patient, leaving Corcoles in the hands of an inexperienced nurse. Despite multiple reassurances from Dr. Sayeg to the anesthesiologist that the bleeding was under control, he overlooked the necessity to perform vital check-ups.
Her condition escalated to an emergency, leading to her subsequent transfer to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. During an emergency operation, surgeons discovered over two liters of blood in her abdominal cavity — indicating that Corcoles had been bleeding extensively for hours. Despite aggressive medical intervention, she succumbed to massive organ failure after being removed from life support.
Reflecting the gravity of the negligence, the jury awarded the family $32 million for emotional damages including grief and sorrow, $15 million for the loss of love, guidance, and companionship, and $19 million for pain and suffering endured by Corcoles.
Dr. Sayeg, who continues his practice in Chicago, faces potential ramifications that include investigations from the Illinois Department of Professional Financial Responsibility. His actions will be scrutinized, particularly his adherence to medical protocols and patient care standards.
Dr. Sayeg holds the option to appeal the ruling, which would necessitate posting a bond nearing $100 million — a figure designed to secure the compensation ordered by the trial pending appeal outcomes.
Despite repeated attempts, comments from Dr. Sayeg or representatives of the clinic have not been available.
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