A Toronto plastic surgeon has been ordered to pay $22.5 million to former patients after a court found he secretly filmed patients without their consent inside his cosmetic surgery clinic. The ruling centers on privacy violations involving surveillance cameras installed in examination areas and other private spaces.
What Happened in the Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case
A judge ordered Dr. Martin Jugenburg, known online as Dr. 6ix, to pay $22.5 million to former patients after finding he invaded their privacy.
Justice Paul Schabas ruled that Jugenburg installed more than two dozen cameras at the Toronto Cosmetic Surgery Institute, located inside the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto.
According to the decision, some cameras were placed in very private areas of the clinic.
The judge stated that Jugenburg knowingly invaded patients' privacy and abused a position of trust with vulnerable patients.
Key Highlights of the Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case
- Court ordered payment of $22.5 million to former patients
- More than two dozen cameras were installed at the clinic
- Some cameras were located in examination rooms and private areas
- At least some devices recorded audio
- The case followed a 2018 CBC Marketplace investigation
Background of the Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case
The class-action lawsuit was filed after a CBC Marketplace investigation in 2018.
While reporting undercover on breast implants, Marketplace producers identified security cameras in a closed-door examination room where patients were asked to undress.
The investigation also found cameras in the clinic waiting area.
The cameras were described as small black-and-white devices mounted on ceilings in room corners.
One representative plaintiff, identified as J.C., attended a breast lift consultation in 2018 and was asked to remove her top and bra for medical photographs as part of the consultation process.
Why This Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case Matters
Patient privacy is a fundamental part of healthcare.
The ruling highlights the legal and ethical responsibilities medical professionals have when handling sensitive patient information and private medical consultations.
The decision also reinforces the importance of informed consent when surveillance or recording equipment is present in healthcare settings.
What Happens Next After the Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case
Dr. Jugenburg said he is reviewing the judgment with legal counsel and will provide a full response later.
In a statement, he acknowledged that more should have been done to ensure patient privacy was respected and protected.
No further court actions were announced in the information provided.
Common Questions About the Toronto Plastic Surgery Privacy Case
Why was the surgeon ordered to pay $22.5 million?
The judge found that patients were filmed without their consent, resulting in a significant privacy violation.
Where were the cameras located?
Cameras were installed throughout the Toronto Cosmetic Surgery Institute, including examination rooms and other private areas.
How was the issue discovered?
The cameras were identified during a CBC Marketplace investigation conducted in 2018.