TikTok Star Rachel Tussey Dies After Complications From Tummy Tuck

Rachel Tussey, a 47-year-old mother of three and popular TikTok personality, has died following complications from a tummy tuck surgery. The surgery, intended as a “mommy makeover,” resulted in severe brain damage, according to her family and legal counsel.

Surgery and Initial Complications

Tussey underwent the surgery on February 25 at an outpatient surgery center in Cincinnati, Ohio. She had been documenting her journey on TikTok, sharing her hopes and anxieties with over 70,000 followers under the handle “midlifeunmuted.” In a video posted shortly before the procedure, Tussey expressed optimism, stating, “Please pray. I understand it’s gonna be great. I’ve waited a really long time for this. I’m in good hands. I know God’s got my back. Let’s do this.”

Following the surgery, Tussey’s condition rapidly deteriorated. Her husband, Jeremy Tussey, recounted in a TikTok video that he received a call from the surgery center asking him to return to the recovery room around 5:45 p.m. He briefly spoke with the doctor, who assured him the operation had gone well. Shortly after, Jeremy heard his wife calling for him.

According to Jeremy, a nurse administered pain medication – 0.5 mg of dilaudid and 150 mcg of fentanyl – and shortly after, he noticed a change in Rachel’s complexion. When she became unresponsive, medical staff initiated CPR. Jeremy noted a perceived lack of urgency in the initial response.

Hospitalization and Life Support

Tussey was transported to TriHealth Bethesda North Hospital, where doctors determined she had been without oxygen for over six minutes. She was placed on life support, but subsequent medical evaluations revealed “profound irreversible brain damage,” according to family lawyer Bernie Layne as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer.

On March 5, the family made the difficult decision to remove Tussey from life support and transition her to hospice care.

Death and Family Statement

Jeremy Tussey announced his wife’s passing on March 17. “We are immensely thankful for the outpouring of love, prayers and generous support our family has received during this profoundly challenging period,” he stated. “Last night, my beloved wife Rachel succumbed to her injuries although in hospice care. Rachel was an extraordinary wife, mother, and individual who left an indelible mark on many lives. Her memory will forever remain with us.”

The family’s lawyer, Bernie Layne, similarly released a statement expressing gratitude for the global support received during this difficult time. The Cincinnati Enquirer reported on the family’s statement.

Growing Concerns About Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Tussey’s case has raised questions about the safety and oversight of ambulatory surgery centers, which are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower costs and convenience. The Cincinnati Enquirer notes that a 2018 report identified 260 patient deaths at these centers in the preceding five years. The Tussey family is seeking answers regarding staffing, emergency preparedness, and oversight at JourneyLite Surgery Center, where the procedure took place.

Rachel Tussey is survived by her husband, Jeremy, and their three children: Tristan, Alec, and Livi.