The death of Lisa Marie Presley at the age of 54 sent shockwaves through the world, prompting a wave of speculation and rumors surrounding the circumstances of her passing. While initial reports remained vague, details have since emerged, shedding light on Presley's health struggles and the factors that may have contributed to her death. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the situation, separating fact from fiction and addressing the rumors surrounding Lisa Marie Presley's weight loss.
The Official Cause of Death: Small Bowel Obstruction
On January 12, Lisa Marie Presley died at a Los Angeles hospital after being rushed there by paramedics who responded to a 911 call reporting a woman in cardiac arrest at her home. The official cause of death, as revealed by the Los Angeles County medical examiner-coroner's office, was complications from a small bowel obstruction.
The autopsy report indicated that the obstruction was a consequence of adhesions, which are buildups of scar tissue that can cause organ tissues or walls to stick together. These adhesions developed as a result of bariatric surgery that Presley had undergone years prior. Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss procedure typically recommended when other methods have proven ineffective or when a person has serious medical conditions.
Weight Loss Regimen and Plastic Surgery Rumors
In the months leading up to her death, Lisa Marie Presley reportedly embarked on an extreme weight loss regimen. Family sources speaking to TMZ claimed that she underwent plastic surgery and began taking weight loss medication approximately two months before her final public appearance at the Golden Globes. This regimen allegedly resulted in a significant weight loss of 40 to 50 pounds in just six weeks.
Adding to the concerns, sources also suggested that Presley had relapsed into opioid use, a battle she had struggled with for a long time.
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The Golden Globes Appearance: A Cause for Concern
Lisa Marie Presley's appearance at the Golden Globes, where she supported the film "Elvis," raised eyebrows and sparked concern among observers. She seemed to struggle on the red carpet, experiencing difficulty standing during interviews and requiring assistance while walking. Some observers noted that she appeared gaunt and her speech was slurred.
Despite her apparent struggles, Presley expressed her excitement about the film and praised Austin Butler's performance as Elvis, describing it as "mind-blowing" and "so spot on."
Additional Factors and Medical Findings
The autopsy report also revealed the presence of therapeutic levels of Oxycodone and Buprenorphine, medications used for pain relief and opioid overuse treatment, in Lisa Marie's system. Additionally, traces of Quetiapine, an antipsychotic drug, were found. However, the report explicitly stated that these drugs did not contribute to her death.
It was noted that Lisa Marie had complained of abdominal pain in the months leading up to her death.
Bariatric Surgery and Potential Complications
The revelation that Lisa Marie Presley's death was linked to complications from bariatric surgery has brought attention to the potential risks and long-term effects associated with the procedure. Bariatric surgery, designed to treat severe obesity, involves modifying the stomach or small intestine to limit food intake.
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While generally considered safe, bariatric surgery can lead to complications in some cases. Adhesions, the cause of Presley's bowel obstruction, are a known potential complication of abdominal surgeries. These adhesions can sometimes cause the intestines to twist or lead to bowel obstructions.
Symptoms of bowel obstruction include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Medical experts advise that individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek prompt medical attention. While some cases resolve on their own, others may require surgery to remove scar tissue or the affected portion of the intestine.
Experts emphasize that surgical techniques have advanced significantly in recent years, leading to safer procedures with reduced risks of complications.
A Life Marked by Grief and Challenges
Lisa Marie Presley's life was marked by both privilege and profound personal loss. She was only nine years old when her father, Elvis Presley, died. In July 2020, she experienced the devastating suicide of her son, Benjamin Keough.
Those who knew her described her as a compassionate and empathetic person who was deeply involved in helping others cope with grief. She co-led grief groups and was planning a podcast on the subject.
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Legal Battles and Family Disputes
In the aftermath of Lisa Marie Presley's death, a legal battle emerged over her estate. Her mother, Priscilla Presley, filed legal documents challenging an amendment made to Lisa Marie's trust that removed Priscilla as a trustee and replaced her with her daughter, Riley Keough.
A Final Farewell at Graceland
Lisa Marie Presley was laid to rest at Graceland, the iconic home she shared with her father as a child. The public memorial service on January 22, 2023, brought together family, friends, and fans to honor her memory.