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A man pretending to be a doctor and promoting cosmetic surgeries on social media was arrested in Miami after it was discovered that he did not have a license to practice medicine in Florida.
Wilson Muñoz Suárez, 60 years old, operated in a surgical center in Little Havana, where he performed procedures without legal authorization.
Muñoz, who presented himself as Dr. Wilson Muñoz online, claimed to have over 25 years of experience "transforming lives" and offered medical supplements, aesthetic consultations, and surgeries through his website. Although he stated that he worked in Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama, the authorities found no evidence of formal medical credentials in the United States.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, last September, a woman from Orlando contacted him after seeing him on social media. She traveled to Doral for a consultation and, in October, underwent an aesthetic procedure at the New World Medical & Mystic Cosmetic Surgery clinic located at 2020 SW First St., Little Havana.
After being unable to communicate with him again in December, the victim confronted him in person. The meeting was recorded on video, during which Muñoz admitted to having performed the surgery.
"She began to explain her concerns about the results. He, once again, physically examined the victim alone," wrote an investigator, quoted by Local 10.
The detectives confirmed that Muñoz did not have a valid medical license in Florida. He was only registered as a surgical assistant, which did not qualify him to perform invasive procedures.
On Wednesday, agents came to his residence in Doral, where Muñoz attempted to prevent his arrest. He tried to close the door and used his elderly mother as a human shield by grabbing her by the neck. Fortunately, the police intervention prevented the woman from getting hurt.
Muñoz was finally arrested and faces multiple charges, including: illegal practice of medicine, assault on a person over 65 years old, domestic violence, and resisting arrest without violence.
The bail for the charge of practicing without a license was set at $2,500, while the other amounts were still to be determined. As of Thursday, he remained detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.
Authorities are urging potential victims to contact the Police, as it is not ruled out that there may be more individuals affected by the actions taken by Muñoz.
Frequently asked questions about illegal cosmetic surgeries and medical fraud in Miami
Who is Wilson Muñoz Suárez and what charges does he face?
Wilson Muñoz Suárez is a 60-year-old man arrested in Miami for performing cosmetic surgeries without a license. He used the name Dr. Wilson Muñoz on social media and claimed to have 25 years of experience. He faces charges for the illegal practice of medicine, assaulting a person over 65 years old, domestic violence, and resisting arrest without violence.
What risks are associated with undergoing cosmetic surgery with unlicensed professionals?
Undergoing cosmetic surgeries with unlicensed professionals carries serious health risks. These include infections, surgical complications, and unsatisfactory results due to a lack of experience and regulation. Furthermore, it may be difficult to seek legal compensation in cases of malpractice.
How can patients protect themselves from medical fraud in Miami?
To protect themselves from medical fraud, patients should verify the credentials and licenses of healthcare professionals. It is advisable to consult with the Florida Department of Health to confirm the validity of medical licenses. Additionally, it is important to research clinics and surgical centers before proceeding with any treatment.
What legal actions do fraudulent doctors and illegal clinics face in Florida?
Fake doctors and illegal clinics in Florida face criminal charges that may include imprisonment, fines, and loss of licenses. Authorities are committed to pursuing these offenses to protect public health. Penalties vary depending on the severity of the actions and the outcomes of the investigations.
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