Luke Gordon, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who ran the Metamorphosis Clinic in Lakefield from the early 2000’s, was this week struck off the roll by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
The then Rynfield resident was dubbed the “Butcher of Benoni” by the media following numerous complaints to the HPCSA about botched surgeries, one of which involved a man losing his leg after Gordon did calf implants.
It is believed that some of his patients started complaining to the HPCSA as far back as 2004.
In 2013, the HSPCA found itself in hot water after four applicants said it failed to take urgent steps against Gordon.
Represented by attorney Gary Austin, the patients alleged in founding affidavits that they had suffered severe disfigurement and impairment due to Gordon. Further, the court papers asked for the HPCSA to “carry out its statutory duties and to comply with its statutory obligations”.
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According to an article on iol.co.za yesterday, Gordon was finally charged with several counts of negligent performance of cosmetic procedures of 14 patients. He was found guilty of unprofessional conduct on nine counts and not guilty in five counts. Over the years, he had paid about R4.5 million to patients whose operations he botched.
A Benoni woman, who asked to remain anonymous and who never laid a formal complaint against the surgeon after he botched a breast augmentation and tummy tuck procedure, said she wants to share her story.
“It took me 10 years to fully recover. I nearly died of septicemia and I had suicidal thoughts,” the woman said. “Luke Gordon being struck off the roll comes at least 16 years too late. I am just thankful to hear it has finally happened.”
Look out for the full story on the HSPCA’s ruling and an account of the local woman’s experience after her surgery in next week’s City Times.
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