Two plastic surgeons have been suspended and fined following the death of a patient during a cosmetic medical procedure at a private clinic in Paris.
The patient, a 65-year-old man, died after suffering a cardiac event while undergoing an elective procedure at the Saint-Honoré-Ponthieu clinic in March 2019, according to reports.
Charges downgraded after investigation
The main surgeon, identified in court only as “Guy H.”, was initially investigated for manslaughter. Prosecutors later reduced the charges to failure to assist a person in danger, drug-related offences, and practising medicine without a licence.
Investigators found that the patient had allegedly been taking substances that are restricted in France, as well as medication typically used to treat certain medical conditions, prior to the procedure.
Timeline of events
Emergency services were first called to the clinic during the evening after the patient reported feeling unwell but opted to continue with the procedure.
Paramedics were later called back after the patient went into cardiac arrest and was subsequently pronounced dead.
A judicial source indicated that the procedure itself was not considered the direct cause of death.
Cause of death
An autopsy found that the patient had an underlying heart condition. Authorities believe this, together with substances found in his possession, may have contributed to the fatal event.
Regulatory breaches uncovered
The investigation revealed further compliance issues at the clinic. An assistant involved in the procedure had not been properly registered with the relevant French medical authorities.
Her qualifications were reportedly not formally recognised in France.
Suspensions and fines imposed
The primary surgeon received a 15-month suspension, while the assistant was suspended for 12 months.
Financial penalties were also imposed:
- €50,000 for the primary surgeon
- €20,000 for the assistant
Legal response
The surgeon’s legal representative described the ruling as balanced, stating that the death was accidental and that assigning blame was complex under the circumstances.
Industry impact
The case has raised broader concerns about patient safety, regulatory oversight, and compliance within private cosmetic clinics, particularly regarding unlicensed practice and the use of restricted substances.
