Cai Yuxin, a well-known car show model in Taiwan, has tragically died following a cosmetic clinic procedure for insomnia that went fatally wrong.

The 30-something model suffered a fatal overdose of propofol, commonly known as a “milk injection,” administered by a high-profile cosmetic surgeon at a Taipei clinic on May 25, as the South China Morning Post reports.

Cai, admired for her elegance and often likened to Taiwanese actress Lin Chi-ling, had long struggled with debilitating insomnia. On a friend's recommendation, she visited Fairy Clinic in Taipei, hoping to find relief. The clinic was run by Wu Shaohu, a famous cosmetic doctor often referred to as the “Godfather of Liposuction.”

Wu gave Cai an intravenous dose of propofol, an anesthesia typically limited to operating rooms and strictly controlled by Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare. Known for its milky appearance, propofol is extremely potent and classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its associated risks and requirements for close monitoring.

After administering the anesthetic, Wu reportedly left the building. He left Cai under the supervision of a male assistant who did not have a valid nursing license. During this time, a reported mistake in the IV equipment setup caused the anesthetic to be delivered faster than intended.

Unlicensed practice leads to medical emergency

The increased drip rate allegedly led to Cai receiving an overdose. Without adequate training or licensing, the assistant was unqualified to respond to the evolving emergency. Cai soon experienced cardiac and respiratory arrest inside the clinic, sparking a chaotic and delayed response.

In a panic, the assistant contacted Wu remotely. Wu, who was off-site, attempted to guide him through CPR via video call while rushing back to the clinic. However, by the time he arrived, Cai’s heart had stopped, and she had already stopped breathing.

The model was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where physicians noted minimal brain activity due to the time elapsed without oxygen. She remained in a coma for 18 days, with her family vigilantly by her sid,e before making the heartbreaking decision to remove her from life support on June 12.

Medical professionals denounce procedure

Cai’s death has raised serious alarms within Taiwan’s medical circles. Experts strongly criticized the use of propofol outside approved clinical contexts and without appropriate precautions in place. The drug, while effective under strict conditions, can be extremely dangerous if misused.

Dr. Lai Xianyong, a licensed anesthesiologist in Taiwan, voiced his concern over the unauthorized usage of such a high-risk drug for sleep-related complaints. “Similar incidents occur every year,” Lai said. “It’s truly deplorable."

He continued: “Medical personnel providing such services without proper airway management training are placing patients’ lives in serious jeopardy.” Lai and other experts are now calling for stricter enforcement of medical laws related to anesthetics and personal cosmetic procedures.

Public grieves, demands accountability

As news of Cai’s passing spread, social media became flooded with tributes and demands for justice. Many fans and followers, devastated by the sudden loss, expressed both their sorrow and frustration online.

“Rest in peace. Thank you for gracing our world – we will miss you,” one commenter wrote. Others were more outspoken. “This is undoubtedly murder,” another said. “I hope the police swiftly identify those responsible for her death and bring them to justice.”

Authorities have initiated a criminal probe into the actions of Wu Shaohu. Investigators are weighing potential violations of Taiwan’s Medical Care Act, as well as possible charges related to negligence leading to serious injury or death. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as officials review evidence and testimonies.

Lessons to learn

1. Verify credentials and proper oversight: Always ensure that any clinic or professional you work with for medical or cosmetic procedures is legally qualified. Do not assume a public reputation or title like “Godfather” signifies legitimate practice or safety.

2. Understand the purpose and risks of any drugs being administered: Substances like propofol are intended for professional use in controlled clinical settings. Unapproved uses, even if recommended by a friend, can lead to fatal consequences.

3. Know that safety isn’t guaranteed in private clinics: Just because a clinic seems high-end or reputable doesn’t mean it follows best practices. Tragedy can strike anyone, regardless of how careful they are. Victims should never be blamed for placing their trust in what they believe are legitimate professionals.

Why this story matters

Cai Yuxin’s story resonates beyond a single tragic event -- it raises urgent questions about oversight in cosmetic medicine and the increasing misuse of serious anesthetics.

It illustrates how lapses in professional standards can result in irreversible harm. Her case has brought fresh attention to Taiwan’s medical regulations and the need for stricter enforcement.