Reality TV star Nikki Exotika has undergone emergency quadruple bypass surgery after suffering what her family described as a terrifying health scare.
The 90 Day Fiancé star, whose real name is Nicole Sanders, was initially expected to undergo a triple bypass operation before doctors reportedly discovered further blockages during surgery.
According to updates shared by her mother Myrna, the operation lasted around seven hours and involved a team of 25 medical staff.
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In emotional videos posted from the hospital, Nikki’s family revealed the reality star had been experiencing chest pain, heartburn, shortness of breath and difficulty walking prior to the emergency procedure, as reported by Need To Know.
The TV personality reportedly suffered a mild heart attack before she could attend a scheduled cardiology appointment and was rushed to hospital, where an angiogram allegedly showed severe arterial blockages and calcification.
Doctors were reportedly unable to place stents due to the extent of the damage, leading surgeons to perform the bypass operation instead. What was first expected to be a triple bypass later became a quadruple bypass after further complications were discovered.
Following the operation, Nikki was placed on a breathing machine while recovering in intensive care, according to her mother.
A fundraising page has since been launched to help cover Nikki’s living expenses while she recovers, with her family saying she is expected to face a lengthy period away from work.
Nikki previously revealed details of her health battle herself in social media videos filmed from hospital, admitting she feared she may not survive the ordeal.
The reality star rose to wider fame after appearing on Season 10 of 90 Day Fiancé, where viewers followed her relationship with Moldovan partner Igor Shutencov, also known as Justin.
Outside of reality television, Nikki has built a career as a singer, performer and television personality.
She has also spoken publicly about her experiences as a transgender woman and her long-running involvement in New York’s ballroom scene through the legendary House of Xtravaganza.
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