The owner of a Miami cosmetic surgery center is facing serious allegations after being accused of allowing unlicensed doctors to perform surgeries on patients, and even participating in at least one unlicensed procedure herself. These accusations led to the suspension of Maria Gonzalez’s license for Mystic Cosmetic Center, formerly known as New World Medical & Mystic Cosmetic Surgery.
According to an emergency order from the state, two unlicensed individuals, Manuel Lazzaro and Wilson Muñoz Suarez, performed botched surgeries last fall at the facility located at 2020 SW First St. The Miami-Dade arrest report indicates that during a cosmetic breast surgery performed by Lazzaro, the victim suffered permanent disfigurement, including the loss of a nipple. Both Lazzaro and Muñoz have pleaded not guilty to charges of unlicensed practice.
Owner’s Involvement in Unlicensed Practices
The suspension order reveals that Gonzalez, who was documented as a medical assistant, was directly involved in a liposuction surgery performed by Muñoz on October 12, 2023. The report states that Gonzalez was aware of the unlicensed practice at her facility, indicating a blatant disregard for medical regulations. The state claims that Gonzalez’s indifference toward allowing unlicensed individuals to perform surgeries suggests a serious violation of office surgery rules and laws.
Gonzalez has yet to respond to these accusations. Her attorney, Luis Fernandez of Little Havana, also did not comment on the matter.
Attempt to Reopen in Unlicensed Location
In addition to the allegations of unlicensed surgeries, the state’s suspension order revealed that Gonzalez attempted to reopen Mystic Cosmetic Center in an unlicensed location. Despite owning the building at 2020 SW 1st St, Gonzalez has been renovating the space for months. In January, Mystic posted a banner stating that the center was temporarily relocating to 2397 SW 22nd St, also known as Coral Way. However, the new location was not registered with the state, meaning it had not been inspected by the relevant authorities.
A temporary sign now indicates that the Coral Way location is home to Mibeauty Suites. According to the suspension order, office surgery registration licenses are not transferable with the business name, making the relocation and its operations illegal.
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