A British man has died following complications during a hair transplant procedure in Turkey.
Martyn Latchman, 38, from Milton Keynes, England, passed away in late July after falling ill during the preparatory stage of his treatment at the Dr. Cinik clinic in Istanbul, a clinic spokesperson confirmed to PEOPLE.
“Before the hair transplant procedure began and during the preparatory phase, the patient unexpectedly became unwell for reasons that are still unknown,” the spokesperson said. “Immediate medical intervention was provided, and he was urgently transferred to a fully equipped university hospital. Despite ongoing intensive care treatment throughout the day, the patient sadly passed away later that evening.”
According to the clinic, Latchman had previously undergone a successful transplant at the same facility and had returned for a second procedure after being satisfied with his initial results.
“Prior to the second operation, all necessary medical evaluations and tests (including blood work, chest X-ray, ECG, etc.) were carried out thoroughly and without omission, just as they were during the first procedure,” the clinic representative added. “These assessments were conducted under the supervision of an anesthesiologist, and the patient was cleared for surgery.”
Latchman’s body has been transported back to the U.K. Turkish news outlet OdaTV reported that local health authorities are now investigating, and The Independent confirmed that an autopsy will be carried out.
“All relevant medical documentation related to this incident has been submitted to the appropriate authorities, and the matter is currently being investigated by judicial bodies,” the clinic stated. “Due to the ongoing legal process and out of respect for the family’s privacy, no further details will be disclosed at this time.”
The clinic also expressed its condolences, saying the staff was “deeply saddened” by Latchman’s death.
A spokesperson for the U.K. Foreign Office confirmed to both The Independent and The Guardian: “We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Turkey and are in contact with the local authorities.”
Latchman had worked in education in Bedford for more than 16 years before transitioning to a career as a defense contractor last year, The Guardian reported.
Friends and family have shared tributes following his death. On July 29, Yashley Latchman posted a message on Facebook reading, “Rest in peace, my brother,” alongside a photo of them at the gym. “You will forever be my source of inspiration and motivation. Thanks for everything. Will miss you loads.”
The Dr. Cinik clinic, located in Istanbul’s Besiktas district, has served a number of high-profile clients over the years, including former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand, Croatian footballer Ivan Rakitić, and Brazilian World Cup champion Rivaldo.
According to the clinic’s website, it has performed over 50,000 successful transplants. The Turkish Healthcare Travel Council reports that around one million people travel to Turkey each year for medical procedures.
