Plastic Surgeon Found Guilty Of Misconduct

A plastic surgeon was found guilty of professional conduct by the NSW Medical Tribunal for botching a breast lift procedure that caused permanent deformity to his patient. 

Tat Kong Joseph Tiong, a plastic surgeon based in Central Coast, attempted to build his reputation as a pioneer of “breast lift by threads.” He first saw the patient in 2007 when she sought his medical help to have a mole removed. 

Dr. Tiong informed the woman about the Promoitalia thread system. The Italian-devised process inserts threads to lift sagging tissues and skin. The patient agreed to have the technique applied to her brows, cheeks and neck. 

The procedure was done by visiting surgeon Ciro Accardo. Dr. Accardo was invited by Dr. Tiong to conduct a demonstration in Australia. 

Official documents also showed that Dr. Accardo offered the woman a free breast thread lift. The patient accepted the offer. The surgery was done a month later. 

It, however, resulted to post-surgical complications. The women developed golden staph infection, suffered from chronic pains and weakness in her rib region and right breast. 

Despite being advised on his patient’s condition, Dr. Tiong did not refer the patient to another doctor. Dr. Accardo also informed Dr. Tiong that the threads needed to be removed immediately. The threads were finally removed the following year but the procedure left a permanent deformity. 

The medical tribunal also reported that the operating room used in the procedure was inadequately small. It was also conducted without proper aseptic procedures. 

Dr. Tiong is suspended from practicing cosmetic surgery for six months. He is also required to complete courses in medical ethics.

Tagged Ciro Accardo, medicine, Tat Kong Joseph Tiong