Texas Medical Board Suspends Plastic Surgeon After Intoxication Allegations

Swift Action After Criminal Charges

The Texas Medical Board immediately suspended Dr. Azul Shiraz Jaffer's medical license on December 30, determining that he posed a threat to patients after the Sugar Land plastic surgeon faced serious criminal allegations. Jaffer was indicted on a state jail felony charge of "Performing Surgery While Intoxicated" following a Fort Bend County grand jury decision .

The alleged incident occurred on August 12, when according to the indictment, Jaffer placed an unnamed patient "at a substantial risk of harm" . Despite the surgery happening in August, police didn't arrest him until December 22 , with the arrest occurring at his office on Brisbane Court .

Medical Board's Serious Findings

The Texas Medical Board found that Dr. Jaffer's alleged constant drug and alcohol use interferes with his ability to practice medicine safely, stating he habitually used drugs or intoxicating liquors to an extent that compromised patient safety . This determination represents one of the most severe actions the medical board can take against a practicing physician.

A temporary suspension hearing with notice will be held as soon as possible with 10 days' notice to Dr. Jaffer unless he specifically waives the hearing . The temporary suspension remains in place until the Board takes further action , effectively prohibiting him from treating patients during this period.

Hospital Responses and Professional Standing

Houston Methodist Sugar Land immediately suspended Jaffer's privileges upon learning of the indictment, though a hospital spokesperson noted he hadn't performed any surgeries there in "several years" . He also had privileges at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and St. Luke's Health Sugar Land Hospital, though he hasn't been on their medical staff since last year .

Jaffer founded his own business, Azul Plastic Surgery, in 2009, which according to his website has become "one of the most highly-rated cosmetic surgery practices in the United States" . The double board-certified surgeon has over 20 years of experience in the medical field , with his website promising "unparalleled patient care" .

Implications for Patient Safety

This case highlights the medical profession's zero-tolerance approach to substance abuse issues that could compromise patient care. The swift action by both the medical board and hospitals demonstrates the robust oversight systems designed to protect patients when serious allegations arise against healthcare providers.

For patients considering cosmetic procedures, this incident underscores the importance of thoroughly researching surgeons' credentials and checking with medical boards for any disciplinary actions. The medical board's database provides transparency about physician licensing status and any ongoing investigations, serving as a crucial resource for informed healthcare decisions.