Dr Saul Braun

Extremely disappointed

I normally don’t write reviews about doctors because I believe medical experiences are personal and subjective. However, after an interaction I had this morning, I feel compelled to share my experience. Three years ago, I underwent three procedures — breast reduction, buccal fat removal, and liposuction — with Saul Braun, along with several Botox treatments. After my breast surgery, I developed keloid scarring. Most of it improved after about eight months, but a small pea-sized keloid remained. I was also unhappy with other aspects of my experience, particularly after developing an abscess on the left side of my face following the buccal fat removal, which I feel resulted in facial asymmetry. Because of these experiences, I did not return for further treatment for some time. Recently, I returned for Botox and enquired about removing the remaining keloid. I also consulted regarding upper eyelid surgery. During consultations, I personally experienced the doctor as very charming and persuasive. However, I felt that when I expressed concerns or dissatisfaction, the tone of the interaction changed significantly. I initially booked the eyelid surgery, keloid removal, and a Botox touch-up for 11 May, but later cancelled the eyelid surgery because I was concerned about experiencing complications similar to those I had previously experienced. I informed the receptionist that although I was cancelling the eyelid surgery, I still wished to proceed with the keloid removal and Botox touch-up. On 10 May, I became severely ill with a sore throat and intense pain affecting the right side of my face, neck, and head. I was taking strong pain medication containing codeine. I intended to call early that morning to cancel my appointment, but overslept due to the medication. When the receptionist contacted me later that morning, I apologised, explained the situation, and requested to reschedule. On 13 May 2026, I received an email informing me that because I had cancelled without sufficient notice, I would now be charged R12,500 for the keloid removal procedure. On 15 May 2026, I attended the practice to discuss the matter because I felt upset and disappointed by the situation. During the discussion, I explained multiple times that I had been unwell and heavily medicated. I also explained my concerns regarding my previous procedures and why I had cancelled the eyelid surgery. During this conversation, I felt intimidated by repeated comments warning me not to post about the matter on social media, including statements that he would “chase” me if I did so. I found the interaction upsetting and unprofessional. I was particularly hurt when my explanation regarding my illness and medication was dismissed as “nonsense.” Frustrated, I responded emotionally, after which I was called “a nasty woman.” At that point, I decided to leave the practice. It has also been brought to my attention that I should explain more specifically why I was dissatisfied with the surgical outcomes: Buccal fat removal: I do not recall being informed during consultation about the possibility of developing an abscess after the procedure, which I later experienced. Breast reduction/lift: During my consultation, I explained that my skin tends to form keloid scars. Preventative options for keloid management were not discussed with me at the time, and I later learned from another doctor that certain preventative treatments may sometimes help reduce keloid formation. I was also unhappy with the cosmetic lift result and later informed that the outcome was limited due to my skin elasticity. Liposuction: I originally consulted because I had lost the curve of my waistline after a previous tummy tuck performed elsewhere. Another surgeon advised against liposuction and instead recommended weight loss because of visceral fat. However, I proceeded with liposuction after consultation with Dr Braun. After the procedure, when I did not achieve the expected result, I was informed that the remaining fat was beneath the muscle. I ultimately spent approximately R70,000 on the procedure and remained unhappy with the outcome, including loose skin on my lower abdomen. This post reflects my personal experience and opinions. In my view, the risks, limitations, and realistic outcomes of these procedures were not communicated clearly enough to me beforehand, and I remain deeply disappointed by both my experience and the results.