Surgeon Teo fights for reputation with star support

The reputation of high-profile brain surgeon Charlie Teo is on the line as he faces a five-day disciplinary hearing at the Health Care Complaints Commission, following allegations he operated without medical oversight.

In August 2021 after an investigation by the commission, the Sydney-based neurosurgeon was restrained by the NSW Medical Council from operating without the approval of another doctor.

As Dr Teo arrived for Monday's hearing he was swamped by a large media contingent and dozens of supporters clapped and hollered encouragement.

"It's been a long road. It's sad that we're in this situation," he told reporters.

"I'd much rather be operating on Monday than doing this."

The embattled surgeon was flanked by some prominent supporters including former Test cricketer Steve Waugh and his wife Lynette who is a former patient, as well as former rugby league star turned boxer Anthony Mundine.

Dr Teo is famous for performing neurosurgery on cancer patients with tumours other doctors have deemed "inoperable", but has been accused of charging exorbitant fees and offering some patients false hope.

He has been banned from operating unless a second doctor is satisfied his patients are aware of the risks and are financially informed about their decision.

Holding a placard with the text "In Teo, I trust and believe," Tammy Thompson said she took a day off work and flew from central NSW to show that her surgery was a success.

"I trust Teo because at no point did he sugar-coat anything. He was straight down the line," the 50-year-old told AAP.

Dr Teo operated on her brain tumour in 2018.

"I was back at work six weeks after my operation ... I'm one of those success stories and I'm upset for those (who) haven't had the success, but what isn't a risk in life?"

Another supporter Alan Suey says Dr Teo saved his eight-year-old daughter's life in 2020 when he operated on her diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma - a type of aggressive brain tumour.

"We knew all the risks but we decided to go ahead with the surgery," he told AAP.

"I know he's a genuine guy and he's done so much good. At the end day he saves lives - there are some bad outcomes and it's unfortunate."

Dr Teo has consistently denied any wrongdoing. 

He said he hoped for a "fair hearing".

"I'm really sorry to all those patients suffering from brain cancer and brain tumours," he told reporters.

"The truth lies between what you've heard and what I'm going to say."