Buttock Surgery Performed By Unlicensed "Doctor"

An incredible story of malpractice has been reported out of Miami, Florida.  A number of alleged victims have come forward alleging a woman posing as a doctor and promising buttocks enhancement pumped their behinds with a toxic concoction of cement, superglue and flat-tire sealant.  According to a report by the Associated Press, the "doctor", identified as Oneal Ron Morris (who police say was born a man and identifies as a woman) was arrested last week after nearly a year of being sought and charged with practicing medicine without a license, causing serious bodily injury.  One victim, who was reportedly looking to get a job at a nightclub and wanted a curvier figure, paid Morris $700 for the injections in 2010. Morris allegedly used some type of tubing and inserted the toxic chemicals into her backside during a painful procedure.  This resulted in hospitalization and extensive home health care, according to the AP report.  Other alleged victims have also suffered serious injuries.

See the Yahoo news/Assoiated Press story HERE.

What the story above demonstrates is that many people looking to have cosmetic surgery turn to those health care providers offering the least expensive treatment.  Not only can this prove embarrassing but also potentially deadly.  A patient looking to have any type of cosmetic procedure should first at least do some investigation regarding the qualifications of the doctor selected.  One of the easiest ways to do this in California is to check with the Medical Board to see if the doctor is licensed and/or board certified in a relevant specialty, such as plastic surgery.  Also, the Board's website contains information regarding any prior discipline.  Second, in some counties (such as the County of Orange) anyone can examine the Superior Court website to see if the doctor has been sued and, if so, for what reason and when.  It should be remembered that the filing of a lawsuit in and of itself does not prove anything as some malpractice suits are filed by the patient simply because they have experienced a less than optimal result.  In addition to this, a potential patient can simply "Google" the doctor's name to see what reviews, if any, have been given by former patients.  Doing all of these things may spare a potential patient embarrassment, serious injuries or even death.

Compensation for victims of medical malpractice committed by unqualified cosmetic surgeons should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a physician without the necessary credentials and training harms a patient, they should be held accountable.  An Orange County medical malpractice attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has over 20 years of experience handling personal injury and medical malpractice cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a cosmetic surgery nightmare?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.