Ohio Mother Dies Following Complications from Tummy Tuck
Rachel Tussey, a 47-year-old Ohio mother and TikTok personality, died on March 17, 2026, after suffering complications following a “mommy makeover” surgery. The incident has raised questions about post-operative care and the risks associated with cosmetic procedures.
What Happened to Rachel Tussey?
On February 25, 2026, Tussey underwent an abdominoplasty at the JourneyLite Surgery Center in Evendale, Ohio, performed by Dr. Shahryar Tork. She had been documenting her journey on TikTok under the handle “midlifeunmuted,” sharing positive messages with her over 70,000 followers. In a video recorded shortly before the surgery, Tussey expressed her optimism, stating, “I’m really looking forward to this next chapter.”
Following the surgery, Tussey became unresponsive after being administered painkillers – dilaudid and fentanyl – in the recovery room. Her husband reported that despite being given Narcan, she did not regain consciousness. She suffered a severe brain injury due to lack of oxygen for over six minutes and was later declared brain dead. She was taken off life support around March 5, 2026, and died at a hospice center.
Surgeon and Family Statements
Dr. Shahryar Tork stated that the surgery itself was “completed successfully and without complications,” and that Tussey was in “excellent condition” when he last saw her in recovery. He expressed his heartbreak and stated he was “struggling to understand” how the complications occurred. Dr. Tork has discontinued procedures at the JourneyLite Surgery Center, noting that post-operative monitoring was overseen by staff contracted by the independent facility, not his practice.
The Tussey family, represented by lawyer Bernie Layne III, is investigating the incident. Layne stated that Tussey suffered a permanent anoxic brain injury and vowed to fully investigate all aspects of her care to determine culpability. The family released a statement indicating they are not currently blaming Dr. Tork, but will thoroughly analyze the actions of all medical professionals involved.
GoFundMe and Community Support
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the Tussey family, raising over $35,000 to date. Friends and community members remember Tussey as a selfless and compassionate individual who dedicated her time to helping others, including organizing donation efforts after Hurricane Helene.
Ongoing Investigation
The JourneyLite Surgery Center and its affiliated organizations have not yet responded to inquiries regarding the incident. The family’s lawyer has vowed to fully investigate the incident to determine culpability.