by ORLANDO, FL – A woman has been arrested in Orlando for allegedly performing a cosmetic laser procedure without a medical license, resulting in severe injuries to a client, according to the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation.
Unlicensed Procedure Causes Serious Burn
According to an affidavit obtained by News 6, 29-year-old Gabriela Pereira was performing an Endolaser treatment on a client’s double chin area at Tonya Beauty in Orlando on April 16, 2024. During the procedure, the laser remained on the chin too long, causing burns, blistering, and tissue necrosis.
Pereira Posed as a Licensed Medical Professional
Despite the damage caused, investigators say Pereira continued to treat the patient eight more times to try to reverse the effects — all while falsely claiming to be medically licensed. Detectives revealed that she provided services in exchange for the patient allowing the clinic to use her images online as a model.
Tonya Beauty’s Popularity Draws Attention
The affidavit states that Tonya Beauty is widely known among Brazilians, attracting actresses, singers, and influencers to their Orlando location for cosmetic treatments. The clinic has gained popularity on Instagram and other social platforms, which is how the victim discovered their services.
Charges Filed After Investigation
Following a formal investigation, authorities issued an arrest warrant on July 29. Pereira now faces the following charges:
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9 counts of Practicing Medicine Without a License
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9 counts of Practicing a Health Care Profession Without a Valid License
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2 counts of Dispensing Medical Drugs Without a License
The case raises growing concerns over the rise of unlicensed cosmetic procedures promoted through social media and the potential risks to public safety. Always check teh credentials before you undergo any procedure.
How to Check the Credentials of a Beauty Salon or Clinic Before a Procedure:
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Verify medical licenses: Ensure the practitioner is a licensed medical professional authorized to perform the procedure.
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Check clinic certifications: Confirm the salon or clinic is registered with local or national health authorities.
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Ask to see documentation: Don’t hesitate to request proof of credentials, certifications, and past training.
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Research the provider: Look up the clinic or individual on official regulatory or medical board websites.
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Don’t rely on social media: Popularity or influencer endorsements do not equal professional legitimacy or safety.
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Read verified reviews: Search for reviews on trusted platforms, not just curated testimonials on the salon’s page.
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Trust your instincts: If anything feels off—pressure to skip paperwork, unclear answers, or a shady environment—walk away.
