GRETNA – A man is suing his doctor claiming he is disfigured after undergoing a botched surgery to remove skin cancer from his nose.
Jerry J. Sterling Sr., and wife Mary Stasiukiewicz, filed suit against Dr. Alan T. Lewis and Louisiana Medical Mutual Insurance Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on May 6.
Sterling claims he was diagnosed with skin cancer on his nose on Jan. 21, 2013 and he sought surgical treatment from Lewis for the condition. The plaintiff alleges Lewis told him he would be in surgery from two to five hours and that afterward it would result in only a small scar. However, Sterling contends following the surgery on March 13, 2013 he had complications including a severe nose bleed and after the stitches were removed from his nose he had a lump and large indented scar on the bridge of his nose as well as broadening of his nose that now makes it difficult for him to wear prescription glasses.
The plaintiff asserts that following the surgery he was disfigured, has continued to experience pain, tearing in both of his eyes and sinus problems, which he did not experience prior to the surgery. Sterling further claims another doctor discovered he had suffered a deviated septum.
The defendant is accused of medical malpractice.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for emotional distress, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, embarrassment, pain and suffering and medical expenses.
Sterling is represented by Jeannie Morris of the Metairie-based Law Office of Jeannie Morris LLC.
The case has been assigned to Division H Judge Glenn B. Ansardi.
Case no. 749-408.