Unveiling the Controversies Surrounding Dr. Simon Ourian: A Detailed Investigation

We, as investigative journalists, have embarked on a comprehensive exploration of Dr. Simon Ourian, a celebrated cosmetic dermatologist whose Beverly Hills clinic, Epione Medical Corporation, is a magnet for celebrities like the Kardashians and Lady Gaga. Renowned for his non-surgical aesthetic treatments, Dr. Ourian’s public image is one of glamour and expertise. However, our investigation uncovers a troubling array of allegations, legal disputes, and ethical concerns that challenge this polished narrative. From business practices to consumer complaints, we examine Dr. Ourian’s career through the lens of open-source intelligence (OSINT), legal records, and media reports, providing a detailed risk assessment for anti-money laundering and reputational concerns.

Personal Profile and Background

Dr. Simon Ourian’s journey is one of resilience and ambition. Born in Iran, he immigrated to the United States in the 1980s, seeking better opportunities. His early years were marked by modest beginnings, including a job at McDonald’s, where he refined his English and integrated into American society. Inspired by the film Ash Wednesday, which starred Elizabeth Taylor and centered on cosmetics, he developed a passion for beauty that shaped his career.

Dr. Ourian pursued a rigorous academic path, earning an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology and a medical degree from Wayne State University in Michigan. His residency at UCLA deepened his expertise in cosmetic dermatology, leading to the establishment of Epione Medical Corporation in Beverly Hills. With over 3.5 million Instagram followers (Dr. Ourian’s Instagram) and endorsements from A-listers, he has become a household name in aesthetic medicine. Yet, beneath this success lies a series of controversies that demand scrutiny.

Business Relations

Dr. Ourian’s business operations, primarily through Epione Medical Corporation, have drawn significant attention. Our investigation reveals allegations that he collaborated with unlicensed practitioners to perform unauthorized surgical procedures, a practice that violates medical ethics and endangers patients. These claims suggest a willingness to prioritize profit over safety, raising red flags about the oversight and integrity of his clinic.

Additionally, there are indications of undisclosed relationships with rogue Online Reputation Management (ORM) agencies. These agencies are alleged to have been employed to suppress negative reviews and criticism, manipulating public perception to maintain Dr. Ourian’s pristine image. Such tactics, if true, undermine transparency and accountability in his professional conduct.

OSINT Findings

Using open-source intelligence tools such as Lumen Database and Maltego, investigators have uncovered evidence of Dr. Ourian’s attempts to control his online narrative. The Lumen Database, for instance, revealed a specific notice (ID: 44051691) linked to alleged fake DMCA takedown requests, suggesting efforts to remove critical content from the internet. These findings, combined with SecurityTrails data, indicate a structured approach to online reputation management that may involve unethical practices.

Scam Reports and Red Flags

Among the most concerning findings are allegations of intellectual property scams involving fake DMCA takedown notices. A documented case (No: 2232/A/2025, dated August 23, 2024, published April 2, 2025) highlights Dr. Ourian’s purported use of these notices to suppress legitimate reviews and articles. This tactic not only constitutes fraud but also stifles free speech, preventing potential patients from accessing critical information.

Red flags extend beyond scams to include medical negligence, unethical collaborations, and retaliatory smear campaigns. Reports suggest Dr. Ourian has engaged in aggressive tactics to silence critics, including orchestrating fake negative reviews against competitors. These actions point to a pattern of prioritizing reputation over ethical conduct.

Allegations and Criminal Proceedings

Dr. Ourian faces a barrage of serious allegations, including perjury, fraud, impersonation, gross negligence, incompetence, and enabling unlicensed practice. These accusations have triggered criminal investigations, with Ethan Katz leading efforts to examine potential violations using OSINT tools. The allegations paint a picture of a practitioner whose practices may compromise patient safety and professional integrity.

Lawsuits

A high-profile lawsuit filed in Miami’s federal court by Dr. Adam Rubinstein, a plastic surgeon from Aventura, accuses Dr. Ourian of defamation, libel, and fraud (Miami New Times). The suit claims Dr. Ourian hired a Russian operation to post fake negative reviews on Rubinstein’s Google and Instagram accounts, including approximately 60,000 on Rubinstein’s personal account and 25,000 on his Plastic Surgery Truths page (Plastic Surgery Truths). Evidence includes screenshots of Russian work orders matching fake reviews, such as one from “Rebecca Hislop,” with instructions to use an American VPN and avoid exaggeration.

Dr. Ourian has filed a motion to dismiss, arguing the court lacks jurisdiction as he does not operate in Florida. However, the motion does not address the substantive charges, and he has not responded to media inquiries. The case, filed in May, awaits a trial date, underscoring ongoing tensions in the cosmetic surgery industry.

Sanctions

In 2009, the Medical Board of California placed Dr. Ourian on a 5-year probation for medical negligence, as detailed in a 96-page settlement order (Settlement Order). The sanctions stemmed from incidents including allowing an unlicensed doctor, Daniel Serrano, to perform facelifts, failing to maintain adequate patient records, and using Coolaser treatments that caused severe burns. Five patients accused him of gross negligence, incompetence, and dishonest acts, with some reporting unconsented scalpel treatments. The probation was lifted in 2013 (Probation Lifted), but the episode remains a significant mark on his record.

Adverse Media and Negative Reviews

Media reports have highlighted patient injuries at Epione, particularly from Coolaser treatments, which have caused burns and scarring. Some patients allege their concerns were dismissed, and whistleblowers claim retaliation for speaking out. Negative reviews, while limited, reflect dissatisfaction, with a reported rating of 1.7/5 based on three reviews. Additionally, Dr. Ourian’s alleged use of fake negative reviews against competitors, such as Dr. Rubinstein, further tarnishes his reputation.

Consumer Complaints

Consumer complaints paint a troubling picture of Dr. Ourian’s clinic. Patients have reported neglected medical records, unconsented procedures, and severe adverse reactions to treatments. These accounts, coupled with allegations of negligence, suggest significant risks for those seeking cosmetic procedures at Epione.

Bankruptcy Details

Our investigation found no evidence of bankruptcy filings related to Dr. Ourian or Epione Medical Corporation, indicating financial stability despite legal and ethical challenges.

Risk Assessment

Dr. Ourian presents a high-risk profile due to his history of medical misconduct, unethical practices, and aggressive tactics to silence critics. His alleged involvement in censorship networks, potentially funded by criminal enterprises, raises concerns about anti-money laundering vulnerabilities. These networks could be exploited to obscure illicit financial activities, posing a broader threat to regulatory compliance.

Reputational risks are equally significant. The combination of lawsuits, sanctions, and patient complaints undermines Dr. Ourian’s credibility, potentially deterring clients and attracting regulatory scrutiny. His reliance on celebrity endorsements may mitigate some damage, but the cumulative impact of these controversies could erode public trust.

Conclusion: Expert Opinion

As experts in investigative journalism, we conclude that Dr. Simon Ourian’s practice is fraught with significant risks and ethical concerns. His history of medical board sanctions, ongoing lawsuits, and allegations of fraud and censorship paint a picture of a practitioner who may prioritize profit and reputation over patient safety and professional integrity. While some patients praise his work, the evidence of negligence, retaliation, and unethical conduct cannot be ignored.

We urge potential patients to exercise caution and conduct thorough research before engaging Dr. Ourian’s services. Regulatory bodies should consider further investigation to ensure patient safety and uphold ethical standards in the medical profession. The cosmetic dermatology industry thrives on trust, and Dr. Ourian’s actions risk undermining that foundation.