A Colorado man named Carlos Hernandez-Fernandez has been hit with a cease and desist order for posing as a plastic surgeon without a proper license. The order, issued by the Colorado Medical Board on August 29, 2025, targets Hernandez-Fernandez and the Bare Beauty Aesthetic Care clinic in Grand Junction, where he allegedly scheduled consultations and surgeries.
This latest incident echoes his past crimes, raising fresh concerns about patient safety in the state’s cosmetic industry. Officials urge anyone who may have received services from him to come forward.
History of Fraudulent Practices
Hernandez-Fernandez first drew attention in 2016 when authorities revoked his surgical assistant license. He faced charges for practicing medicine without a license and targeting vulnerable patients, often from immigrant communities.
In 2017, he pleaded guilty to felony counts related to botched cosmetic procedures on dozens of women. These cases involved severe complications, including infections and disfigurements from unauthorized surgeries.
Court records show he served prison time from 2017 to 2019. After release, he stayed out of the spotlight until recent reports surfaced.
Prosecutors described his actions as predatory, with victims reporting not just medical harm but also emotional trauma. Many underwent corrective surgeries at great personal cost.
Details of the Recent Allegations
The current case began in early August 2025 when Hernandez-Fernandez approached a potential patient at her workplace. He presented himself as a qualified plastic surgeon and arranged a consultation at Bare Beauty Aesthetic Care.
According to state investigators, he planned to perform procedures despite lacking any active medical license in Colorado. The clinic, located in Grand Junction, came under scrutiny as part of the probe.
Officials from the Division of Professions and Occupations confirmed he has no credentials to practice medicine. This violation mirrors his earlier schemes, where he operated fake clinics in Denver and Lakewood areas.
Investigators believe he may have treated other patients recently. They are now searching for more individuals who might have been affected to build a stronger case.
Public records indicate similar complaints in nearby regions, prompting a wider review of aesthetic centers across western Colorado.
The Cease and Desist Order Explained
The Colorado Medical Board issued the order on August 29, 2025, demanding an immediate halt to all medical activities by Hernandez-Fernandez and the clinic. This legal step aims to protect the public from unlicensed practices.
Key elements of the order include:
- Prohibition on performing any surgical or cosmetic procedures.
- Ban on advertising or scheduling medical services.
- Requirement to notify any past patients of the risks involved.
- Potential for further penalties if violations continue.
State regulators emphasize that such orders serve as a first line of defense. They often lead to criminal charges if ignored.
In this instance, the board acted swiftly after receiving a tip about the unauthorized consultation. This response highlights ongoing efforts to monitor repeat offenders in the medical field.
Impact on Patients and Community
Victims from his 2017 cases still deal with long-term effects. One woman shared how her botched nose surgery left permanent scarring, requiring multiple follow-up treatments.
Health experts warn that unlicensed procedures can lead to life-threatening issues like severe bleeding or infections. In Colorado, licensed surgeons must complete rigorous training and board certification.
Community leaders in Grand Junction call for better oversight of aesthetic clinics. They point to rising demand for cosmetic services amid social media influences.
To help readers spot legitimate providers, consider these tips:
- Verify licenses through the state’s official database.
- Ask for proof of board certification in plastic surgery.
- Research patient reviews and any history of complaints.
- Consult with primary care doctors for referrals.
A table below outlines key differences between licensed and unlicensed practitioners:
| Aspect | Licensed Plastic Surgeon | Unlicensed Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Medical degree plus specialized training | Often limited or no formal medical education |
| Certification | Board-certified by recognized bodies | No official credentials |
| Oversight | Regulated by state medical boards | Little to no accountability |
| Patient Safety | Follows strict health protocols | High risk of complications |
| Legal Status | Authorized to perform surgeries | Illegal and punishable by law |
This comparison underscores why checking credentials matters.
Broader Implications for Colorado’s Medical Regulations
Colorado has seen a spike in cosmetic procedure complaints, with over 500 reported in 2024 alone, according to state health data. This trend ties into national concerns about unregulated beauty treatments.
Recent events, like similar fraud cases in Florida and California, show a pattern of imposters exploiting the booming aesthetics market. Experts predict tighter laws, including mandatory background checks for clinic staff.
The Hernandez-Fernandez case could spur reforms, such as enhanced monitoring of former offenders. Advocacy groups push for victim support funds to cover corrective care costs.
As investigations continue, authorities stress the need for public vigilance. Staying informed helps prevent such deceptions in the future.
What do you think about this case? Share your thoughts in the comments below or spread the word to raise awareness about patient safety.
