Updated 10-10-2026
In March 2022, a patient of Dr. Harold Bafitis passed away following surgery. Dr. Bafitis and his entire team continue to extend their deepest sympathy to her family. Out of respect for the family and for patient privacy, Dr. Bafitis will not comment on the patient or her care.
We are sharing this page because patients and members of the public have asked about the outcome of the legal and regulatory matters that followed. Those matters are now closed.
Civil Case Closed
A civil lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County in 2023 (Case No. 50-2023-CA-011015). In February 2024, by joint stipulation of the parties, the court entered an Order of Voluntary Dismissal with Prejudice as to Dr. Bafitis, Bafitis Plastic Surgery, P.A., and the Plastic Surgery Institute of the Palm Beaches, Inc.
What does "dismissed with prejudice" mean?
"With prejudice" is a legal term. It means the dismissal is final: the case is permanently closed, and the same claims can never be filed again. The word "prejudice" here has nothing to do with bias or discrimination. It is the court's way of saying the case has been ended for good.
State Review Closed With No Violation Found
In August 2026, the Florida Department of Health's Probable Cause Panel for Office Surgery Registrations reviewed the complaint filed in this matter. After reviewing all information and evidence obtained, the Panel determined that probable cause of a violation does not exist and directed that the case be closed.
Our Commitment to Patients
Dr. Bafitis has practiced plastic and reconstructive surgery in Palm Beach County since 1989. He is double board-certified in general surgery and plastic and reconstructive surgery, and he has trained surgical residents and medical students for nearly 30 years. Patient safety remains at the center of every procedure performed in our practice.
If you have questions, we welcome you to contact our office directly at (561) 795-3787.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the lawsuit against Dr. Bafitis still open?
No. The case was dismissed with prejudice in February 2024 by joint stipulation of the parties and is permanently closed.
What does "dismissed with prejudice" mean?
"With prejudice" is a legal term meaning the dismissal is final. The case is permanently closed and the same claims can never be filed again. It has nothing to do with bias or discrimination.
Did the Florida Department of Health take action?
In August 2026, the Department's Probable Cause Panel reviewed the complaint and all evidence and found that probable cause of a violation does not exist. The case was closed.
Is Dr. Bafitis licensed and practicing?
Yes. Dr. Bafitis holds an active Florida osteopathic physician license, which can be verified through the Florida Department of Health license lookup.
Will Dr. Bafitis discuss the patient's care?
No. Out of respect for the family and patient privacy laws, Dr. Bafitis does not comment on any patient's care.