For decades, Americans resigned themselves to gritting their teeth through the agony of surgery. But then an eminent surgeon, a charming swindler, and his hapless mark crossed paths and changed everything.This episode originally aired on November 8, 2018.Listen to new episodes 1 week early and to all episodes ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/innovations.Support us by supporting our sponsors!Policy Genius - Go to policygenius.com and get started. You could save 50% or more by comparing quotes and start the new year with one less thing to worry about.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.