Meet Dr. Olivier Gerbault: The French Surgeon Who Turned Noses into Potatoes!
Meet Dr. Olivier Gerbault, the so-called “nose maestro” from France, whose glittering career has taken a shocking nosedive into scandalous allegations. As of November 2023, this 58-year-old plastic surgeon finds himself suspended for two years amidst a storm of accusations ranging from malpractice to the most disturbing patient outcomes imaginable. Former clients claim that his surgical work left them with noses resembling “potatoes,” a term that speaks volumes about their discontent.
Despite the French General Medical Council’s (CGMC) suspension order, Gerbault has not stepped away from the scalpel. He firmly denies any wrongdoing, suggesting instead that a rival surgeon is orchestrating a smear campaign against him. According to reports from Le Parisien, Dr. Gerbault is standing his ground, insisting that these claims are nothing but a coordinated attack on his esteemed reputation.
Patients Unveil Disturbing Experiences
In a chilling account, a former patient known as Elisa described her disastrous surgery in 2020 aimed at correcting a hooked nose. Instead, she woke up to a “long, crooked, thick” nose that left her struggling to breathe. The emotional toll was devastating, leaving her feeling crushed and hopeless.
Another victim, Chloé, shared a haunting story of her own. After her procedure, she found her nose transformed into a “lump” that became infected, leading to nasal collapse, deep depression, and job loss. She recounted a nightmare when cartilage protruded painfully from her nose, stating in court documents, “He massacred me.”
Allegations of Unauthorized Procedures
Not only is Gerbault facing criticism for failed rhinoplasties, but patients claim he performed unauthorized surgeries as well. Alix recounted waking up from surgery to find an unwanted chin implant had been inserted against her wishes. She described enduring excruciating pain and a haunting sense of mutilation, feeling as though her life had been irreversibly shattered.
Gerbault’s Denial of All Charges
Throughout this turmoil, Dr. Gerbault has remained steadfast in his innocence. He alleges that this wave of patient complaints is a strategic ploy orchestrated by a rival. “These patients are all connected and making identical claims,” he told Le Parisien. “A rival surgeon is likely behind this campaign.”
Legal and Ethical Consequences
Despite the CGMC’s ruling citing serious medical ethics violations, local authorities in Hauts-de-Seine have controversially allowed Gerbault to continue practicing. This has led the CGMC to file a separate lawsuit against him for “illegal medical practice.” If convicted, he could face up to two years in prison and a hefty fine of $19,100. Gerbault claims he has ceased performing surgeries as of early this year, but the CGMC is still pursuing an appeal.
The Rise and Fall of a Surgical Pioneer
Dr. Gerbault once basked in the glory of his innovations in cosmetic surgery, proudly claiming to have “invented ultrasonic rhinoplasty,” a procedure touted for its less invasive nature compared to traditional methods. Sadly, this once-revered expert now stands at the center of a storm that casts a long shadow over patient safety and ethical standards in the cosmetic surgery industry.
