Quick Read
- Cai Yuxin, a 40-year-old model with over 32,000 followers, sought treatment for chronic insomnia.
- She received a ‘milk injection’ of propofol, administered by Dr. Wu Shaohu, known as the ‘Godfather of Liposuction.’
- The injection caused cardiac and respiratory arrest, leading to a 19-day coma before her family ended life support.
- Authorities are investigating Wu for negligence and violations of Taiwan’s Medical Care Act.
The tragic death of Cai Yuxin, a 40-year-old Taiwanese model, has shaken the medical and social media communities alike. Known for her glamorous presence and followed by over 32,000 fans online, Cai was desperate to find relief from her chronic insomnia. Her quest led her to a clinic in Taipei, where she underwent a controversial and ultimately fatal treatment known as a ‘milk injection’ on June 2, 2025.
What is a ‘Milk Injection’ and Why Was It Used?
The ‘milk injection’ refers to propofol, a short-acting intravenous anesthetic commonly used in hospital settings for sedation and anesthesia. In Taiwan, propofol is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it can only be administered under strict guidelines by qualified professionals. Despite these regulations, it was used at Wu Shaohu’s clinic—a facility that allegedly specializes in cosmetic procedures but has now come under scrutiny for breaching medical ethics.
Dr. Wu Shaohu, often referred to as the ‘Godfather of Liposuction,’ was the director of the clinic where Cai received the injection. According to reports from Thesun, Wu administered the propofol and then left the clinic, leaving an unlicensed assistant to monitor Cai. This decision proved fatal when the equipment reportedly malfunctioned, increasing the drip rate and delivering a dangerously high dose.
The Tragic Chain of Events
Shortly after the injection, Cai suffered cardiac and respiratory arrest. The assistant, lacking the necessary medical training, contacted Wu via video call for guidance. Wu attempted to instruct the assistant in performing CPR, but by the time he rushed back to the clinic, Cai’s heart had already stopped. She was transported to a hospital, where she remained in a coma for 19 days before her family made the heartbreaking decision to discontinue life support on June 21, 2025.
Tributes poured in from her followers and admirers. Many expressed anger and sorrow over the incident, with one calling it “undoubtedly murder” and urging authorities to bring those responsible to justice. Another commented, “Rest in peace. Thank you for gracing our world—we will miss you.”
Legal and Ethical Fallout
The case has sparked outrage and a legal investigation into Dr. Wu’s practices. Local authorities are examining whether his actions constitute negligence and a violation of Taiwan’s Medical Care Act. According to Thesun, Taiwanese anesthesiologist Lai Xianyong emphasized the dangers of using propofol in non-hospital settings without proper monitoring. “Similar incidents occur every year. It’s truly deplorable,” Lai stated, highlighting the risks posed by unregulated procedures.
Propofol’s misuse is not a new issue in Taiwan, but this high-profile case has reignited debates over medical ethics and patient safety. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and harsher penalties for violations to prevent similar tragedies.
A Wake-Up Call for Unregulated Practices
Cai’s death underscores the dangers of unregulated medical practices and the lengths to which individuals may go to address chronic health issues. Insomnia, while debilitating, requires evidence-based treatments administered by qualified professionals. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with seeking quick fixes, especially in the realm of cosmetic medicine.
As investigations continue, the medical community and public alike are left grappling with the question: How can such preventable tragedies be avoided in the future? The answers may lie in stricter oversight, better public awareness, and a commitment to prioritizing patient safety above all else.
Cai Yuxin’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of medical negligence. Her legacy now serves as a catalyst for change, urging both practitioners and patients to uphold the highest standards of care and ethics.