A man posing as a doctor and advertising cosmetic surgeries on social media has been arrested in Miami after it was discovered he lacked the necessary license to practice medicine in Florida. Wilson Muñoz Suárez, 60, was operating out of a surgical center in Little Havana, where he performed procedures without legal authorization.
Muñoz, who marketed himself online as Dr. Wilson Muñoz, claimed to have over 25 years of experience "transforming lives," offering medical supplements, aesthetic consultations, and surgeries through his website. Although he boasted about his work in Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama, authorities found no evidence of formal medical credentials in the United States.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, a woman from Orlando contacted him in September after seeing his ads on social media. She traveled to Doral for a consultation and in October underwent a cosmetic procedure at the New World Medical & Mystic Cosmetic Surgery clinic located at 2020 SW First St., Little Havana. When she was unable to reach him again in December, the victim confronted Muñoz in person. The encounter was recorded on video, during which Muñoz admitted to performing the surgery.
"She began expressing her concerns about the results. He, once again, physically examined the victim alone," an investigator noted, as reported by Local 10. Detectives confirmed Muñoz did not hold a valid medical license in Florida. He was only registered as a surgical assistant, which did not permit him to perform invasive procedures.
On Wednesday, agents went to his residence in Doral, where Muñoz attempted to resist arrest. He tried to close the door and used his elderly mother as a human shield by holding her around the neck. Fortunately, police intervention prevented the woman from being harmed.
Muñoz was eventually taken into custody and faces multiple charges, including the illegal practice of medicine, battery on a person over 65, domestic violence, and resisting arrest without violence. The bond for practicing without a license was set at $2,500, with other amounts yet to be determined. As of Thursday, he remained detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.
Authorities urge potential victims to contact the police, as there may be more individuals affected by Muñoz's unauthorized procedures.
Legal Implications of Unlicensed Medical Practice in Florida
What charges does Wilson Muñoz Suárez face?
Wilson Muñoz Suárez faces charges of practicing medicine without a license, battery on a person over 65, domestic violence, and resisting arrest without violence.
What steps should victims take if they've been affected by Muñoz's procedures?
Victims are encouraged to contact the police to report their experiences, as authorities are investigating potential additional victims.
How was Muñoz operating in Little Havana?
Muñoz was conducting cosmetic procedures from a surgical center in Little Havana without legal authorization, claiming to have extensive experience in the field.