Dr. Amiya Prasad, a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with practices in Manhattan and Long Island, has found himself embroiled in a series of legal disputes in recent years. These lawsuits raise questions about his practices and ethics, casting a shadow over his once-glowing reputation.
Nurse’s Allegations: In 2022, Joanne Mastroianni, a former nurse at Prasad Cosmetic Surgery, filed a lawsuit alleging a litany of disturbing practices. She accused Dr. Prasad of:
Overbilling patients for fillers: Mastroianni claims fillers were diluted with anesthetic or saline, essentially shortchanging patients on the promised procedures.
Charging for absent services: One particularly egregious accusation involved a $15,000 charge for an anesthesiologist who was allegedly not present during a surgery.
Unhygienic practices: Mastroianni paints a picture of unsanitary conditions, including the reuse of needles and improper disposal of medical waste.
These allegations, if true, paint a troubling picture of Dr. Prasad’s priorities, placing profit seemingly above patient safety and well-being. (Source: Courthouse News Service: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/new-york-hospital-pay-26-mln-over-doctors-unnecessary-surgeries-2022-09-14/)
Accessibility Lawsuit: Adding fuel to the fire, a 2022 lawsuit filed by Marta Hanyzkiewicz alleges that Dr. Prasad’s website, prasadcosmeticsurgery.com, violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by not being sufficiently accessible to visually impaired users. (Source: Accessibility.com: https://eyelifts.com/accessibility/)
Previous Legal Issues: While these recent lawsuits are troubling, they’re not Dr. Prasad’s first brush with legal trouble. In 2004, he faced a lawsuit regarding improper service of process, highlighting potential issues with his business practices extending beyond the operating room. (Source: FindLaw Caselaw: https://casetext.com/case/siragusa-v-brown)
What Does it Mean for Patients? Dr. Prasad’s legal woes raise serious concerns for potential patients. While some of the allegations remain unproven, the sheer number and nature of the lawsuits warrant caution.
Before considering any cosmetic surgery procedure, it’s crucial to do your research:
Check surgeon credentials: Verify board certifications and any disciplinary history with medical boards.
Read patient reviews: Look for independent reviews on platforms like Google and RealSelf.
Seek multiple consultations: Compare options and ensure you feel comfortable with the surgeon’s approach.
Prioritize safety: Don’t let the allure of a “quick fix” cloud your judgment.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to undergo cosmetic surgery is a personal one. However, by being informed and taking your time, you can minimize the risk and ensure a safe and positive experience.
FAQs:
Has Dr. Prasad responded to the lawsuits?
Dr. Prasad has denied all allegations and maintains his commitment to providing high-quality patient care.
Are there any regulatory actions against Dr. Prasad?
Currently, there are no active investigations or disciplinary actions against Dr. Prasad’s medical license.
What is the status of the ongoing lawsuits?
The lawsuits are still pending in court, and it could be some time before they reach a resolution.
Are there other doctors facing similar lawsuits?
Unfortunately, legal disputes are not uncommon in the cosmetic surgery industry. It’s important to be vigilant and do your due diligence regardless of the chosen surgeon.
What are some reputable resources for finding a qualified plastic surgeon?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American College of Surgeons (ACS) offer resources for finding board-certified and experienced surgeons.
What should I do if I have concerns about my cosmetic surgery experience?
If you have any concerns about your experience with Dr. Prasad or any other cosmetic surgeon, it’s important to speak with a trusted healthcare professional or legal counsel.
Remember, your health and well-being are paramount. Approach cosmetic surgery with caution and prioritize informed decision-making.