The founder of one of Sydney’s most popular celebrity cosmetic empires is being sued by his former CEO in an explosive Federal Court dispute.
Contour Clinics, an eight-clinic cosmetic chain beloved by TV stars and influencers, was founded by Dr Josh Wall and Ben Thurlow in 2017.
Mike Canizales was appointed CEO in January 2024 on a $350,000 salary but was sacked the following year in August 2025 for alleged misconduct.
Dr Canizales is suing the clinic for damages and lost earnings in a case potentially worth tens of millions.
He alleges he agreed to stay on as CEO only if he received a cut of any future capital raising or sale.
In July 2025, the business was valued at an estimated $160 million, putting him in line for the massive payday of up to $27.2m under the terms that had been agreed.
Instead, he was suddenly suspended and fired shortly after the valuation.
It is understood Contour Clinics believed Canizales lied about his resume and past business dealings, although he denies this.
News.com.au reached out to Mr Canizales’ legal team for comment.
Former CEO slams celeb doctor
A lengthy 31-page statement of claim filed by the former CEO alleges Dr Wall was involved in drug abuse, gambling, and embezzlement.
Mr Canizales claims Dr Wall confessed to illicit substance issues and a stint in a Thai rehab facility when he took on the CEO role.
He also alleges he discovered financial irregularities in the business, including alleged embezzlement of up to $1m.
Dr Wall denies the allegations
Dr Wall and Contour Clinics vehemently deny these claims.
In a statement provided to news.com.au, Dr Wall says while he’s experienced periods of stress, he denied any claims of drug involvement.
“I have faced issues with stress in the past, which I haven’t always managed appropriately,” he said.
“At no point, have I let these issues impact my care for patients, which has always been my absolute priority.
Following the allegations against Dr Wall, The Medical Council of NSW investigated and cleared Dr Wall of the drug claims in February 2025.
Dr Wall has since undergone and passed voluntary screenings.
“In November, I made the difficult decision to step away from Contour Clinics to focus on my health and wellbeing,” Dr Wall said.
“This followed an intense and stressful period for the business, including false allegations put forward by the former CEO in regards to my conduct.”
Contour Clinics and Dr Wall are due to file their defence on Good Friday.
But it’s not the first time Mr Canizales has been involved with a massive corporate lawsuit.
More than 26 years ago, he successfully sued tech giant Microsoft over an unfair contract and walked away with an estimated $14 million payout.
