The claims were filed against Wong as part of Maddens Lawyers’ class action against Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Services (DCSS) and Dr Daniel Lanzer on behalf of patients who allegedly suffered loss or damage, including lasting physical deformities and psychological trauma.

Two other claims against the Lanzer Clinic and DCSS, as they related to Wong, were also discontinued. This included a claim that DCSS breached its contract with patients who underwent surgery with Wong and was therefore “vicarious liability for alleged negligence” of those patients.

In ordering the discontinuance, Justice Jacinta Forbes of the Victorian Supreme Court said it would mean group members would be “restored to the legal position that existed prior to the joinder of Dr Wong”.

“I am satisfied that the outcome is not unfair or unreasonable nor adverse to the interests of group members,” Justice Forbes said.

In a statement to media on Friday (9 May), Maddens Lawyers said the class action “continues to move forward” against DCSS, Lanzer, Dr Daniel Aronov, the estate of f– as well as his wife Candice Wainstein – Dr Ryan Wells, and Dr Alireza Fallahi.

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Class action principal Kathryn Emeny said Justice Forbes’ orders were a positive step and Maddens Lawyers would continue to focus on advancing claims of negligence, misleading and deceptive conduct, and breaches of consumer law against the remaining defendants.

“We have heard from hundreds of patients who have been adversely impacted by these practices,” Emeny said.

“The repercussions for patients both physically and mentally are broad-ranging and in many instances, life-altering.

“It is shocking to hear about people’s experiences. We, along with each of the four lead plaintiffs representing the class, are committed to holding these doctors to account.”

Wong will remain a party to the proceeding due to the operation of defences for the remaining defendants.

Maddens Lawyers said the class action secured a victory earlier this month when Justice Caroline Goulden ordered the defendants to produce social media material from their Instagram and TikTok accounts.