Full Breakdown
Vivian Gomez Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter After Illegal Silicone Butt Injection Leads to Death of Kim Kardashian Look-Alike Influencer
6/20/2026, 11:12:28 PM
Sentencing of Vivian Alexandra Gomez for Fatal Illegal Cosmetic Procedure
On June 15 2024 a San Mateo County judge sentenced 50-year-old Vivian Alexandra Gomez, an unlicensed cosmetologist from Florida, to four years in state prison after she administered illegal silicone gluteal injections that led to the death of 34-year-old influencer Christina Ashten Gourkani. The conviction includes felony involuntary manslaughter and practicing medicine without a license.
Background and Context
Silicone injections for cosmetic enhancement are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Medical experts warn that silicone can migrate, cause infection, block blood vessels, and result in necrosis, especially when performed outside licensed facilities.
Key Figures
Vivian Alexandra Gomez, 50, traveled from Florida to perform the injection. Christina Ashten Gourkani, 34, was known for her resemblance to Kim Kardashian. San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe led the prosecution. Dr. Michael K. Obeng, a board-certified plastic surgeon, provided medical commentary. Gomez’s attorney represented the defendant.
Timeline
April 20 2023 – Christina Gourkani became ill after the injection and died the next day.
March 2023 – San Mateo County DA announced charges of involuntary manslaughter and unlicensed practice.
June 15 2024 – Gomez received a four-year prison sentence.
July 20 2024 – A restitution hearing is scheduled.
Why It Matters
The case highlights public-health risks of unlicensed cosmetic procedures, underscores gaps in FDA enforcement, and may prompt tighter regulation of itinerant providers offering illicit silicone injections.
Official Statements and Responses
The San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office said Gomez was convicted of felony involuntary manslaughter and practicing medicine without a license, resulting in death. District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe noted the victim died on April 20 from cardiac arrest and that silicone was found in her bloodstream. Gomez’s attorney said the defendant is willing to accept responsibility and does not plan to appeal.
Criticism and Opposition
Dr. Michael K. Obeng warned that silicone injections can migrate, cause infection, hardness, and tissue necrosis, emphasizing the substantial danger of non-FDA-approved procedures performed outside medical settings.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
San Mateo officials cited cardiac arrest as the cause of death, while the Daily Journal reported a pulmonary embolism and respiratory failure. Both sources confirm silicone in the bloodstream, but the exact causal pathway remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She's a very nice woman,” — Gomez’s attorney
- “She was willing to accept responsibility for involuntary manslaughter a long time ago.” — Gomez’s attorney
- “Most of these illegal injections are made with silicone, and silicone or any foreign substance can migrate within the body, which can lead to infection and hardness over time, deforming parts of the body.” — Dr. Michael K. Obeng, board-certified plastic surgeon
- “was such a caring and loving free spirit that always took the time to bring a smile to anyone’s face she crossed paths with,” — Online fundraiser description (New York Post)
What’s Next
A restitution hearing is set for July 20 2024 to determine compensation for Gourkani’s family.
