NYC Plastic Surgeon Receives Threats for Providing Free Reconstructive Surgeries to Survivors of Oct 7th Massacre

NYC Plastic Surgeon Receives Threats for Providing Free Reconstructive Surgeries to Survivors of Oct 7^th Massacre

Edited by: Fern Sidman

Dr. Ira Savetsky, a respected plastic surgeon based in New York City, has become the target of an alarming wave of violent threats following his outspoken philanthropy and humanitarian efforts. In the wake of the Hamas massacre on October 7, Savetsky has been providing free reconstructive surgeries to survivors and victims of the attack, a commitment that has garnered widespread attention—but also dangerous backlash, according to a report in The New York Post.  For nearly a year, Savetsky has endured hundreds of threats daily, forcing him to heighten security measures and seek protection from law enforcement.

Despite the hostility, Dr. Savetsky’s resolve remains steadfast, driven by his deep commitment to both his profession and his support for victims of anti-Semitic violence. However, The Post report indicated that the onslaught of abuse has taken a personal toll, extending beyond his medical practice into his private life, as his family has also become a target.

The brutal Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, marked a turning point in Dr. Savetsky’s philanthropic efforts. Known for his long-standing support of Israel, Savetsky was quick to offer his expertise to survivors of the terrorist attack, providing life-changing reconstructive procedures for free, as per the information provided in The Post report. This act of compassion, however, triggered an aggressive campaign of harassment against him.

Was so excited to see @kimkardashian post a photo with the @lashonhara Speak No Evil bracelet, but hours later she deleted this photo from the carousel. Is the Hebrew language now controversial? The deleting of this post says more about where our society is today than Kim… pic.twitter.com/Kon7mYLEq2

— Lizzy Savetsky (@LizzySavetsky) September 15, 2024

“The initial wave of threats came within a few weeks after October 7,” Savetsky recalled, when speaking with The Post. “Then I had a huge uptick in January.” The threats range from vile messages to disturbing voicemails, some of which have been so specific and dangerous that they have been forwarded to the FBI. His office on Park Avenue has become a focal point for this vitriol. The Post report said that one caller threatened, “I am going to come to your office and beat the s— out of you, Monday morning 9am get ready.” Another left a chilling voicemail: “I hope you commit suicide, please kill yourself in front of your kids.”

These threats have inundated his practice, with calls and messages coming in by the hundreds daily, disrupting not only his professional life but also the lives of his family members. His wife, Lizzy Savetsky, a former star of the Real Housewives of New York City, has also faced harassment. As was noted in The Post report, the attackers infiltrated her WhatsApp, sending pictures of her parents’ home in Texas along with messages threatening their family. This deeply personal harassment has left the couple on edge, forcing them to take drastic measures to secure their home and family.

Savetsky’s work, however, extends beyond the immediate response to the October 7 massacre. Over the past year, he has offered free reconstructive surgeries to victims of anti-Semitic violence in the United States. The report in The Post also indicated that as incidents of anti-Semitism rise globally, including a marked increase in the U.S., Savetsky’s efforts have provided critical care for individuals who have faced traumatic injuries due to hate crimes.

Wondering how to defend Israel against accusations of GENOCIDE? Watch this video and share. A letter discovered from a Hamas leader to Sinwar reveals important information about the civilian to combatant ratio in the war. pic.twitter.com/WFBHSUBfi5

— Lizzy Savetsky (@LizzySavetsky) September 12, 2024

His dedication to his Jewish identity and to Israel has long been at the core of his public life. Following the October 7 attack, this dedication intensified. The Post report pointed out that both he and his wife have been vocal advocates for Israel, frequently using their platforms to highlight the plight of the Jewish people and the necessity of supporting survivors of terrorism and hate-fueled violence. However, this advocacy has also made them targets for those harboring anti-Semitic and extremist views.

In June, Dr. Savetsky undertook a profound mission: providing life-changing surgery to a wounded Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier named David, whose injuries were sustained during the brutal Hamas attack on October 7. According to The Post report, David’s story is one of resilience and bravery, but it is also emblematic of the broader struggle faced by many Israelis and Jewish individuals in the wake of violence and terrorism. For Dr. Savetsky, this mission is deeply personal and professional, yet it has come at a high cost, as his philanthropy has made him the target of violent threats.

Dr. Savetsky recently met David in Israel, where he was recovering with the help of the nonprofit organization BelevEchad. The Post report confirmed that BelevEchad offers more than just physical rehabilitation; it provides a community and a network of support for soldiers grappling with the psychological and emotional fallout of battle. For David, the organization has been a lifeline, helping him navigate the long road to recovery after his surgery.

Thank you so much @afu.669 for having me tonight for your incredibly important event to support our heroic soldiers! Anytime I get the chance to sing in front of a crowd I pinch myself and also LOL a bit because I never thought anyone would be asking for these rusty pipes at this… pic.twitter.com/jMGlnuTno9

— Lizzy Savetsky (@LizzySavetsky) September 13, 2024

“They got ambushed by about 400 terrorists,” Savetsky recalled of David’s unit. “David was there fighting. He unfortunately lost several people in his unit, and he got injured while fighting and also while actually saving a few people,” he told The Post. The soldier’s bravery in the face of overwhelming odds mirrors the broader resilience of Israel in the wake of repeated terrorist attacks, and for Dr. Savetsky, this case was emblematic of the urgent need to support survivors of violence with all the resources available.

The connection that Dr. Savetsky and David share highlight the unique bond between physician and patient, forged in the crucible of shared purpose and sacrifice.

The intensity of the threats against Savetsky and his family underscores the dangerous rise of anti-Semitism in the U.S. and around the world. Despite law enforcement’s involvement, no arrests have been made, and the threats continue unabated. The Post reported that Dr. Savetsky is now in regular contact with the NYPD, FBI, and the mayor’s office, but despite these efforts, he has not seen the decisive action he believes is necessary to protect his family and practice.

“I have great respect for law enforcement and believe they are working hard to protect us, taking these threats very seriously,” Savetsky told The Post, acknowledging the ongoing efforts by authorities to investigate and provide security. However, he added, “I wish there was more decisive action taken against those who have threatened us.” The continuous flow of harassment has disrupted his professional and personal life, forcing him to increase security measures at both his office and his home.

For Savetsky, the personal risks have not deterred his professional and philanthropic mission. “I’ve definitely increased the security of my office and even our home,” Savetsky acknowledged to The Post, but he remains committed to his work. Despite the vile threats, he continues to provide essential medical care to those who need it most—people whose lives have been torn apart by violence, hatred, and discrimination.

Those who advocate for Israel or visibly support the Jewish community have increasingly found themselves targeted by hate groups and extremists. Savetsky’s case exemplifies the risks faced by individuals who take a public stance against anti-Semitism and terrorism, even when that stance is manifested through philanthropy and healing.

In a world increasingly divided by extremism and prejudice, individuals like Dr. Savetsky represent the possibility of resilience in the face of violence. His commitment to helping victims rebuild their lives, despite the personal risks, is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of humanity.