Brazilian Influencer Junior Dutra Dies After Alleged Complications From ‘Fox Eyes’ Surgery

Brazilian fashion influencer Adair Mendes Dutra Junior, widely recognized as Junior Dutra, passed away at 31, just one month after disclosing complications from a cosmetic “fox eyes” procedure.

According to reports, Junior died on October 3 after being urgently admitted to a hospital in São Paulo. His close friend, Gean Souza, confirmed his passing in an interview with Brazilian outlet Quem, alleging that the infection from the surgery escalated until it became fatal.

Souza stated, “He became ill, felt very short of breath, and was taken to the nearest emergency room at a public hospital. He had been having infectious reactions and feeling discomfort since the procedure. Last Friday, the problem worsened.”

Junior had previously discussed his ordeal publicly in a September interview, revealing that his “fox eyes” surgery, performed in March by Dr. Fernando Garbi, resulted in an infection and significant swelling.

In that interview, he appeared with visible bruises and mentioned he was receiving treatment under a dermatologist’s supervision.

Dr. Garbi, through his attorney Marcelo Cheli, has refuted all allegations, labeling them as “false” and asserting that there is no link between the procedure and Junior’s death.

In a statement posted on social media, the doctor’s legal team accused critics of chasing “brief moments of notoriety” and promised to pursue legal action against those spreading what they deemed defamatory claims.

Prior to his death, Junior had already lodged a complaint against the doctor, calling for an investigation by the 15th Police District of São Paulo. Reports indicate the influencer accused Garbi of illegal medical practice, serious bodily injury, and fraudulent misrepresentation.

The “fox eyes” trend — a cosmetic lift designed to give the outer corners of the eyes a cat-like slant — has gained popularity globally, particularly among celebrities and influencers.

Friends say Junior remained hopeful despite his health challenges. Souza described him as “a very dear person with many dreams to fulfill.”

“He wanted to be closer to his family, to go abroad… What we want now is justice,” he added.

Junior Dutra, who amassed over 123,000 followers on Instagram, was celebrated for his polished fashion style and imaginative posts.

His final Instagram post, shared weeks before his passing, showcased a model in striking red attire with the caption:

“Because attitude can also be worn — and today it comes in red.”

Fans and fellow influencers have since inundated his page with tributes, grieving the loss of a young creative whose life was tragically cut short by a series of unfortunate events.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli