A Rocklin cosmetic surgeon pleaded "not guilty" to 37 felony counts, including mayhem, grand theft by false pretenses and conspiracy, during his arraignment in a Placer County courtroom, Monday, April 22, 2013.
Several state and local agencies conducted lengthy investigations surrounding Dr. Effrain Gonzalez, 52, and his wife, Dr. Yessennia Candelaria, including our California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) members who are investigators with the Medical Board of California and the Franchise Tax Board.
"It was the diligent work of these investigators and their commitment to see this case through, that led to this doctor's arrest last month," said CSLEA President Alan Barcelona. "Seeing this plastic surgeon in court to answer to the charges against him has to be of some relief for the patients who have suffered as a result of his alleged actions."
In a 95-page Medical Board complaint, Gonzales, of the Advanced Med Spa cosmetic surgery clinic in Rocklin, is accused of gross negligence, incompetence, dishonest or corrupt acts, failure to maintain adequate records and aiding or abetting unlicensed practice of medicine. The document lists 56 "causes for discipline," including a patient who reported she was unable to use her right hand after breast augmentation surgery.
Another patient reported Dr. Gonzalez was not present in the room when she awoke from surgery and an unlicensed surgical technician was suturing her abdomen. The technician did not possess any type of health care professional license issued by the State of California. Another patient reported a vaginal rejuvenation surgery left her unable to use tampons or even wear pants.
The complaint also addresses a careless practice of prescribing medication and administering anesthesia. The complaint has been referred to the Attorney General's Office for prosecution.
Gonzalez practiced cosmetic surgery but his board certification is listed as Obstetrics & Gynecology. According to Medical Board records, the Puerto Rico Medical Board suspended Gonzalez's medical license for five years, effective April 18, 2007, for practicing cosmetic surgery without certification.
The charges against Gonzalez in Placer County are in connection with care provided at Advanced Med Spa, in Rocklin, between April 2007 and his arrest March 15. Gonzalez's wife, is scheduled to be arraigned next month.
In broadcast media reports, women claimed they had botched plastic surgery procedures that have left them disfigured, disabled or both.
