Name: Azar Plastic Surgery and Med Spa
Address: 425 Haaland Dr #200, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361
Telephone: (805) 373-7073
Price range: $$
Rating: 5

Thousand Oaks breast reconstruction model with brown hair

Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Thousand Oaks

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Calabasas, Malibu, Agoura Hills, and Camarillo

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, Dr. Azar and his staff are here to help you through this difficult time. We will provide you with information, options, and support to help you make informed decisions about your body. Breast reconstruction techniques and technology have advanced considerably to provide satisfying results for many women that often can last without requiring additional surgery. Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Kouros Azar is highly sought after for breast reconstruction in the Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Simi Valley areas.

Additional Reading

With compassion and advanced skills, he has helped his patients restore their bodies and repair their self-image. If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or have already had a mastectomy or lumpectomy, request a consultation with Dr. Azar to discuss your breast reconstruction options. Or, you can call our office at (805) 373-7073 and one of our knowledgeable, supportive staff members will schedule your appointment.

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to restore the shape, size, and appearance of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. The procedure can use your own tissue, implants, or a combination of both to create a natural-looking breast. Modern techniques focus not only on restoring symmetry but also on achieving results that look and feel as natural as possible. Your surgeon will work with you to create a plan tailored to your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

Breast Reconstruction Benefits

Breast reconstruction offers both physical and emotional benefits. Patients often experience:

Restored breast symmetry and shape – helping clothing fit naturally.
Improved body confidence – restoring your appearance can enhance self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Natural-looking results – advanced surgical techniques allow reconstructed breasts to mimic natural contour and movement.
Customizable options – reconstruction can be tailored with implants, your own tissue, or a combination of both.
Nipple and areola restoration – completing the aesthetic for a natural, finished look.

Breast Reconstruction Candidates

Breast reconstruction is appropriate for anyone who has had a mastectomy or significant breast tissue loss. Ideal Breast Reconstruction candidates are medically stable, have completed cancer treatments or are under the guidance of their oncology team, and desire to restore the shape, symmetry, and appearance of their breasts. During your consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, discuss timing relative to cancer treatments, and help you choose the reconstruction method that aligns with your goals and overall health.

Thousand Oaks breast reconstruction model with blonde hair

Your Consultation for Breast Reconstruction

Having a friend or family member at your personal consultation will provide emotional support. For breast cancer patients, there is a tremendous amount to learn about breast reconstruction options, and this comes at a time when they are already overwhelmed with emotions.

At the start, Thousand Oaks breast reconstruction provider, Dr. Azar, recommends that patients spend at least 1 to 2 full hours with him. He prefers to break this time into 2 visits to give the patient time to digest the information from the initial consult and ask more questions during the second visit. Dr. Azar also encourages the patient bring a friend or family member to ask questions and to help remember what is discussed. Federal law mandates that medical insurance cover breast reconstruction for breast cancer patients and for patients carrying the gene mutation for hereditary breast cancer (BRCA). While Dr. Azar is not a contracted insurance provider, as a courtesy to his breast cancer patients, he makes every effort to treat patients as though they were in-network to minimize or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. His staff will carefully review each patient’s individual case.

Timing

Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after the mastectomy or delayed until sometime in the future.

Both choices have advantages and disadvantages. Most women choose immediate reconstruction because it reduces the psychological impact of having a breast removed. The patient wakes up from surgery already knowing her breasts are on the way to being whole again. Delayed reconstruction is a good option for women who did not have reconstruction at the time of their mastectomies. However, it is preferred to do reconstruction immediately on the day of the mastectomy. In addition to treating breast cancer patients, Dr. Azar performs reconstruction for BRCA patients who carry the hereditary gene mutation for breast cancer.

Types of Reconstruction

Dr. Azar performs breast reconstruction using either a breast implant or the patient’s own tissue to replace the breast mound. This decision is based on several factors, including personal preference, individual anatomy and medical history.

Implant Reconstruction

Silicone implants help restore the feel of natural breast tissue. After mastectomy, remaining breast skin and muscle are stretched gradually over time using a temporary, inflatable implant called a tissue expander. The expander is then replaced with a silicone breast implant like those used for breast augmentation. Dr. Azar does not use saline breast implants for reconstruction because they do not provide as natural a result as silicone implants. In some cases, the mastectomy can be performed using a skin-sparing technique called direct to implant. This technique eliminates the need for tissue expansion. In addition, the nipple and areola can often be saved.

Additional Reading

Dr. Azar uses AlloDerm® (an acellular tissue matrix) for all implant reconstructions. It provides a natural barrier between the patient and the implant and helps improve the shape of the reconstructed breast. AlloDerm also allows for better coverage of the implant and decreases the risk of scar tissue forming, leading to results that feel soft and more like natural breasts.

Autologous Flap Reconstruction

Using your own tissue can help decrease chances of allergic reactions as well as increase the natural feel of your chest. When the patient’s own tissue is used to re-create the breast mound, it is called autologous flap reconstruction. Dr. Azar offers TRAM (transverse rectus abdominus muscle), latissimus dorsi and DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap reconstructions. DIEP reconstruction is a complex technique that requires Dr. Azar’s advanced microsurgical skills. This amount of detail requires two hands to perform the procedure. Dr. Azar enlists the assistance of another local, equally skilled colleague.

Nipple And Areola Reconstruction

After your reconstructed breasts have healed and you and Dr. Azar are satisfied with their appearance, he can perform nipple reconstruction as a simple outpatient procedure. He typically uses the C-V flap technique and incorporates a small piece of AlloDerm to provide some substance to the shape of the nipple. The areola is tattooed by a local medical tattoo artist.

Breast Reconstruction Procedure

The procedure varies depending on your chosen reconstruction method. Implant-based reconstruction involves placing a saline or silicone implant to restore breast volume. Autologous tissue reconstruction uses tissue from another part of your body, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs, to reconstruct the breast. In some cases, a combination of tissue and implants is used for optimal shape and symmetry. Nipple and areola reconstruction is typically performed as a secondary procedure and may include 3D tattooing for a natural appearance. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the length of the procedure depends on the complexity of the reconstruction plan.

Breast Reconstruction Results

Most patients notice immediate improvement in breast shape and symmetry, but final results continue to refine over several months as swelling subsides and tissues heal. Breast Reconstruction Recovery typically involves some discomfort, which is managed with prescribed pain medication. Activity restrictions are recommended during the initial healing phase, and follow-up appointments help ensure proper recovery and symmetry. Nipple reconstruction or areola tattooing may be performed after the primary surgery, completing the breast’s natural appearance. Proper incision care and adherence to post-operative instructions help optimize healing and maintain results.

Your Recovery & Beyond

The Best Result For You

Autologous flap reconstruction usually requires a longer stay in the hospital than implant reconstruction. After breast reconstruction, most patients have a brief hospital stay, the length of which depends on the type of reconstruction performed. We recommend that a close friend or family member be available to help the patient for the first 1 to 2 weeks after mastectomy and reconstruction. In addition, physical therapy is essential to recovery from both mastectomy and reconstruction.

Breast Reconstruction Cost

Breast Reconstruction cost depends on the method, materials used, and any combination procedures. Costs generally include surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility or hospital fees, and post-operative care. Because breast reconstruction is medically necessary after mastectomy, most insurance plans cover all or part of the procedure. Your surgeon and staff will guide you through insurance coverage and provide clarity on out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring you have a full understanding of the financial aspects of your treatment.

Westlake village Azar Plastic Surgery and Med Spa office staff

Why Choose Dr. Azar for Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is an important step toward recovery from breast cancer, and it’s essential to choose a plastic surgeon who is both qualified and compassionate.

Dr. Azar is board certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and he is a highly skilled microsurgeon. He keeps up on advances in technique and technology to provide his patients with the best available Breast Reconstruction solutions. Dr. Azar and his staff understand the emotional issues related to breast reconstruction. Dr. Azar understands that realistic expectations are extremely important in making sure the patient is happy with her results. He provides a variety of before-and-after photos to give patients an idea of the results they can expect. Dr. Azar also strives to dispel the common misconception that reconstruction is painful. Above all, Dr. Azar and his remarkable staff take the time to listen to patient concerns and address them, and to help each patient feel the best she can about her decision.

* Results May Vary

Breast Reconstruction Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy?

Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover breast reconstruction following mastectomy or medically necessary tissue loss, often including follow-up procedures such as nipple reconstruction and areola tattooing.

Will reconstructed breasts look and feel natural?

Modern techniques allow reconstructed breasts to look remarkably natural in shape and symmetry. Sensation may differ from natural tissue, but careful planning ensures both aesthetic and comfortable results.

Does Breast Reconstruction hurt?

Discomfort varies depending on the procedure, but pain is generally manageable with medication and typically improves steadily during recovery.

Can breast reconstruction be done after radiation or chemotherapy?

Yes. Reconstruction can be safely performed after cancer treatments, though timing and technique may be adjusted based on your medical history to optimize healing and outcomes.

What is nipple reconstruction and areola tattooing?

Nipple reconstruction recreates the nipple using local tissue, while areola tattooing adds natural color and shading. These procedures are usually performed after the initial reconstruction to complete the breast’s appearance.

Radiant Results

Schedule your Thousand Oaks plastic surgery consultation with Dr. Azar today

Dr. Kouros Azar, founder and medical director of Azar Plastic Surgery and Med Spa, is an attentive listener, a devoted surgeon and doctor, and a highly-skilled biomedical engineer. He matches his patients with the best possible treatments by drawing on his extensive expertise, compassion, and research skills. Make an appointment with Dr. Azar now to discuss your rejuvenation options.

425 Haaland Dr #200, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361

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