Justin West, MD

I had the pleasure of having Dr. West as my surgeon. During a very stressful time he and his office always put me at ease. Explaining the process, helping with any questions or concerns I may have had. Dr. West is very professional and knowledgeable. Dr West will always my go to surgeon. I highly recommend if you’re in need of plastic surgery for any reason.

Dr West did my 1st breast reduction and lift in 2012. They were finally even and perkier and I was very pleased finally wearing normal bras. And fitting in cute tops.

Then in my mid 60ies, 10 yrs later, they had grown again and my left breast was also now again noticeably larger then the right. I was very self conscious.

Only one surgeon I trusted and that was Dr West. This time I also had alot of armpit fat which he offered to liposuction and help improve the look of breast.

After I was able to remove bandages I was in tears. My breasts looked so beautifully even, perkier even with such older thin skin and poor pectoral muscles and my armpit fat was gone. I really healed looking amazing in sleeveless tops or dresses.

His bedside manner is professional and kind. He truly wants you to feel pretty and younger looking.

Also his office team is amazing.

Highly recommend a free consult. He'll be extremely honest what he can do and or what may be an issue.

I researched and thought about breast implants for almost a decade, but never felt comfortable enough to actually go through with it, despite wanting a better shape/size almost my entire life. I was looking for a natural, subtle improvement. One that would perhaps be noticeable to close friends and family, but not draw a ton of attention if I walked into a room, ya know? And because of these pretty specific and picky requirements, I never felt confident enough to actually schedule a surgery, even after meeting with four or five surgeons over the years. And then I found Dr. West. Reading reviews and getting a consultation with Dr. West was what finally made me go through with a procedure that ultimately changed my entire outlook on my self image. Meeting with him and his entire team made me feel confident about breast implants that no other doctor or team made me feel. They answered my questions with candid honesty and listened to my concerns with open minds and validation. They also have Vectra 3D imaging, which was a huge plus for me as I was able to better visualize what breast implants might look like on my actual body. They answered every phone call (there were lots), offered me flexibility with scheduling, gave me patience and support, and they were just so warm and kind. I found myself looking forward to encounters with them and on the day of the surgery, they were there to pump me up and calm my fears of going under anesthesia and the healing process. Speaking of the healing process, it was a bit longer and more involved than I planned on, but in hindsight, I’m not great when it comes to pain and should have had more realistic expectations about this. Especially after talking about those expectations multiple times with Dr West and his team. Haha! I was given medication for the pain that worked great as well as antibiotics and anti-nausea meds (didn’t end up needing the anti nausea meds, but I was grateful that he prescribed them just in case). Dr. West touched base with me the evening of my surgery and two days after. Then a month after, then 2 months after, then 3 months after. I have another appointment at 6 months after. This frequency of followup care works really well for me, so I’m glad they do it. I do wish there would’ve been more clarity on what bras to wear I could/shouldn’t wear - I tend to get pretty hung up on small details and I felt like I was getting different answers about it all (maximum support, sports bra, no underwire, the post breast augmentation bra I got from the hospital). I ended up just going with what people were saying online. Bra fitting is a nuisance anyway, let alone after breast implants. They’re so hard and sit so high at the start, so it’s weird to figure out what fits and what’s okay/not okay to wear and I’m still paranoid that the bras I wear are going to mess up the new shape/size of my breast. But like I said, I get pretty hung up on little details like this that perhaps, in the grand scheme of things, don’t matter so much. Honestly, at the end of the day, I am THRILLED with my results and my experience as a whole with Dr. West. I can’t tell you how many times I wake up in the middle of the night and think, “Oh my gosh, I have amazing boobs!” Catching a glimpse of myself before jumping into the shower no longer makes me cringe. Finding dresses and swimwear that fits no longer seems impossible. And I know I can trust Dr. West with my self image. I would highly recommend him and his team for breast implant surgery.

Initial review-I am 6 days post surgery

First of all, I am happy I found this site. You gals have helped me a lot sharing your stories. Also, I found my awesome doctor here! I highly recommend him.

I am very happy I found this active Board Certified Plastic Surgeon after my research. Which also consists of having a current license with the State Medical Board. Two requirements not spoken enough on this site. His website has before and afters that are not only impressive, but Dr. West does video presentations for each procedure!

I was impressed by his staff. Gina his Office Mgr and Krystle his nurse who is included in his consultations and is also with you in the operating room. I went on about 2hrs and he was polite answering all my questions I had written down. Not only was Dr. West professional he made sure my concerns were addressed. I had, had horrible experiences with General Anesthesia and he knew how to tackle that. With an anti-nausea med prior and post surgery plus a scope patch. I am currently a chronic pain patient and was worried that this surgery would exacerbate my issues. I am status post 2 C-spine surgeries. He said not necessarily. He also mentioned a Exparel shot that helps with pain right after surgery. (I just had 2 other friends with tummy tucks who had great results, but were in excruciating pain No Exparel shot offered or using a pain pump).

I happily signed on the next day. Aside from answering all my questions and concerns honestly, Dr. West is mid range and that is what I was looking for. He was within my budget. Not cheap. You want cheap, you get cheap.

Surgery day - I was set. Not nervous, because I trusted Dr.West and had a nurse scheduled to pick me up for a 16hr post recovery. Did I think I needed a nurse? At first no, my sister is retired and ready to care for me. She had a successful tummy tuck I thought so why? Dr. West explained that with a family member it’s easier for them to accept not feeling up to doing the walks etc. True. I am so glad I listened!!

The Main Street Surgery Center was great! Love the nurses there! Barbara who is British and from Yorkshire, made me laugh. I told her that my friend is from Manchester, she loved it. The others were just as sweet. I was told I was getting Dr. Perkins as my Anesthesiologist. Apparently, he is a Director there and well liked. Dr. West came in marked me up and I just said, don’t forget my muscle repair! Lol He smiled..and said he wouldn’t. Dr. Perkins came in and we went over things. I told him how sick I get from the Anesthesia. He set me up with the patch and started the injecting the goods. I don’t remember anything else until I woke up over 6hrs later with a nurse saying all went well and my nurse is waiting for me. It had been a long surgery. I feel fine. Not in pain thanks to the Exparel shot. Not sick thanks to the patch and anti-nausea pill, omeprazole pill Dr.West had me take on the way to the surgery center. My nurse was terrific! When you are fresh out of surgery, uncomfortable and highly likely in pain having someone that knows what to do is a godsend. She took me to the hotel I had selected which had a king suite with a refrigerator and microwave. I brought overnight clothes with the items her company recommended such as protein drinks, broth, water and snacks. I requested the 1st floor and was near the hotel market. So anything else needed she went to get it for me. I requested some nuts. So she gave me some options. She was fabulous! So worth it! I selected her company from previous patients that used their services. Luxury Care Of OC. Ana books the nurses. Dr. West called that evening to check on me to see how I was doing, he spoke with Jenna my nurse who had been taking my vitals and writing everything down including my meds and drain amts etc. I extended her time a few hrs! I had my sis arrive before she was set to leave to show how to change out my drains. I get queasy. Unfortunately, so my sisters help is much appreciated. The hotel Mgr Luis was awesome because he made sure I got the 1st floor and when I checked out got a discount! The Hotel Ayers is very reasonable anyways. My first time staying at one. This one is at The City in Orange.

I live in the desert. I would stay at an Ayers again. The rooms are a good size and include a sofa.

I am staying at my sisters until I want to return to my home in the desert. My friend who rents a room from me is looking after my home. I am lucky to be retired in my 50’s so I don’t have to worry about returning to work and can recover slowly and not hurry.

1st day post thru 6th day

I am so grateful and thankful my pain level has been manageable! I had my breast augmentation and I feel no pain since the surgery! However, my tummy tuck I do feel pain, but it’s been manageable! Thank you, Exparel and Dr. West! I am a chronic pain patient so Dr. West rightfully has my pain doc take care of my pain pills. I am on Percocet. Now, I am down to the levels before my surgery and he did allow me 10 Ambien pills to take for sleep post surgery. Side note- I read here people taking pain pills with Valium and asked my pain doc about it.

He said that it’s not a good idea and would never prescribe me those two together. He is one of the best pain docs in Ventura County. I go 3 hrs to see him using a driver. I used to live in Calabasas, I kept him as my pain doc. A good one is hard to find and
he will give me telemedicine appts in combo to in person ones. He has been my pain doc for 10yrs.

1st Pre-Op Appointment

Friday, January 28th

2 days post

I first saw Krstyle who is Dr.West’s nurse and was in the operating room. Besides being cute, she knows her stuff. I had asked if I can bring in my sis because she will be helping me with any changing of dressings, Gina manages the office and payment another Doll, said of course! Being that they follow Covid protocols thankfully! (My sis gave her friend a ride to her ps in Newport who is well known and does not follow any masking protocols! Everyone is unmasked!) She kept hers on!

Krystle checked my dressings changed them and removed my garment making it look easy to do. It isn’t. She said I have a high pain tolerance which I have been told before. My breast augmentation has not yet given me any pain. Thank god!

My sister was impressed with how low my incision is. (I couldn’t see yet, I faint easy) She said mine was so low and well done compared to hers from her doc lol. She said my breasts look good and my belly button looks great! Krystle had stepped out to get Dr. West during this time. He came in and said that a lot of lipo was removed from my flanks and that I should end up with an hour glass figure. I asked how my procedure went, he said it went smoothly and went on as what to avoid doing and to to expect. I will see him again in two weeks. I will see Krystle again tomorrow. Dr.West and his team constantly say call if any questions or concerns.

The aftercare: Outstanding

Complaints here on Realself are usually from the lack of aftercare from their doctors. Not here. It’s the opposite. During my consultation I asked about it because friends later regretting their decision to pick their plastic surgeon because of the lack of aftercare, I didn’t want it to be me. I also turned down a Orthopedic Surgeon from Cedars Sinai
that had authorization to operate on me because his reviews for lack of aftercare were pathetic! He gets by because he is good? Not good enough for me.

There are other spinal surgeons. I decided to forego another surgery even though it was approved and fully paid for. Hard to find a doc with good bedside manners. They don’t teach this in medical school apparently. Sorry…back to this surgery.

Between surgery and present day. I had emailed in the day and evening re: concerns because one drain fell off and another time my tummy seems awfully swollen with fluid. Last Sat one of my drains fell off and my sis who is helping me wasn’t concerned because not much was going into the left drain. I still had one drain in on the right. So I waited until Monday morning to email Gina who quickly responded and didn’t think it was anything to worry about, but would have Krystle call me. Krystle did and no worries. Not much if anything was coming out of that drain. I still have one. Then last night at almost 8:00 I emailed Gina concerned about my swollen tummy. I expect it to be swollen, but it feels filled with fluid? Gina quickly responded to my surprise and said not to worry. It is normal to be swollen with fluid, but she will have Krystle call me in the morning. First thing at 8:00, Krystle called! She told me that it was normal and that the pain I am having from my flanks is from all the lipo that was removed. I am going to see her tomorrow.

I don’t have any bleeding and few bruises.

Last note:

I had trouble downloading pics. Minimizing the photos, so I decided to wait 1 month or 2 and give before and after photos that offer more changes.


Updated on 2 Feb 2022:
Here is a list of helpful items:

A recliner to sleep in the first week


A extra large heating pad for your back
(Being hunched over for days is going to give you a painful backache!) I used a hand massager for my back too

Cough drops for your throat after having that thing down your throat during a long surgery it sure helps soothe it!


A Walker with a seat. Lucky for me a friend just had a T.T. so I borrowed hers. I also borrowed her recliner she bought which was better than the one I had shipped to my sisters. Sometimes buying one on sale is cheaper than renting one.


A walking cane. I used to go to my post op appt.

I used a sports chair that had cup places for drains to shower using a towel underneath.
I used lounge sets that were a bigger size and use large tank tops and tops to safety pin my drain so you can’t see it.


Protein drinks


Soups


Stool softener to start before surgery to prevent constipation from pain pills.


Extra strength Tylenol


Chapstick my lips were really dry after surgery

I am fortunate to have my sister take care of me and cook for me homemade soups. If you cook I would recommend you make soups in advance and freeze them. You will be happy you did or buy hearty can soups with vegetables. You will need to
eat soft foods and foods that will help you go.


Updated on 2 Feb 2022:
Major progress 1 week later!

One week post office visit- I saw Dr. West’s nurse Kystle today. (She was in the operating room with Dr. West). I am progressing well. Fortunately, I still have no pain from the breast augmentation. I had a under muscle procedure with a lift. I was told that
my breasts were constricted with not enough skin underneath, so Dr. West was going to do the best he could giving me cleavage and making my breasts look natural with volume. It looks like he achieved this. They look beautiful, I don’t want to lose any any volume if possible. However, I know they need to drop. My tummy tuck incision looks great and very low. I am very happy about that. Dr. West had me wear and leave on a bikini bottom so he can mark that area before surgery. That works great! My belly button looks very good and natural. I really don’t have any bruises and I didn’t have any bleeding other than my drains which was very little.

Today my drain was removed. The other fell off last Sat but not much or anything was coming out of it. So happy to be rid of my “friend” yay! You feel a sense of freedom from being tied to these drains however, I understand why you have them and would rather have those fluids out. I told Kystle it was so nice to shower unassisted by anything, standing on my own. I still had my one drain this morning so I used a belt Fanny pack to place it in while I showered instead of letting it just hang.

I was concerned about my swollen tummy. The feeling of fluids in there and being so bloated is quite uncomfortable! Kyrstle reassured me that this is natural and the fluids I am feeling is from the lipo who would’ve thought they put in fluids when they do lipo? I didn’t know that! Ok, as long as I understand why I am feeling the way I do. I feel better and not concerned. I have to admit today was the first day I saw myself in the mirror and Knowing my bloated tummy is natural and will go down. I am happy with my results thus far! Things have gone better than I expected. I now need to graduate to a support bra that is recommended for better support of the implants during this stage.

I was provided with the link and I ordered it. My next appointment is not for another month so I am very happy on my progress and the fact that I can go home soon since my next appt is a month away and I have been staying at my sisters who lives 30 mins to Dr. West compared to me, I live 2 hrs away.

I am walking unassisted without a cane or Walker. Pretty much straight. I can’t yet bend and pick up things, but I think I am doing pretty darn good for 1 week post surgery. I sleep in a bed now. Not a recliner. My back is no longer hurting me from being hunched over. I am a chronic pain patient and I actually feel better and need less pain meds than I was taking before surgery. My acid reflux has improved. Dr. West thought it might get worse with tying my tummy muscles, but it didn’t. I think it got better!! The only thing I took daily a month before surgery and restarted that I think helped with my digestive system and maybe recovery was 8Greens it’s a supplement that has a remarkable story to it. Consists of 8 types of Greens. They are gummies and a bit pricey, but I love them!! So I was able to go without issues:)


Updated on 4 Feb 2022:
I decided to post 2 before pics and 1 after. I am swollen on my tummy, but much improved after one week I can go down to the smallest notch on my compression garment yay! That’s 3 notches over when I barely got in the last at the start. Not really any bruising and my incision is very low. I still feel continued discomfort around my tummy and have feelings of being full so I don’t eat much at each sitting. (That can be a positive!)I feel pain in my flanks from extensive lipo. I used to be a small thing then after my last spinal surgery and the death of my brother from Covid, I put on weight and couldn’t get it off! I have one adult son, so I can’t blame it on having him, although even thin I had a small pouch. 

My breasts thankfully have not given me any pain, I did get a donut lift. The implants are Mentor smooth 350cc’s. I did want to go anywhere from 400 to 500cc’s but I was told I have constricted breasts and not a lot of skin underneath so Dr. West took in different sizes to see what would fit best and give me the cleavage and volume I wanted, but still looking natural. Apparently as they drop they should give me more of a lift. I am surprised at the volume for 350cc’s and I am happy with the cleavage. Thrilled they are not set far apart or looking unnatural. My pet peeve with breast implants! Then again that is why I selected Dr. West! If you check out his website every breast augmentation looks beautiful and natural!! 

Today I emailed Gina about using a scar cream. She responded right away as usual and said they recommend a silicone based one and to start at 4 weeks post. Gina is the Office Mgr at Dr. West’s office. You get responses right away. They’re great!



Updated on 4 Feb 2022:
Not an easy site to do editing. I had difficulty uploading my 2nd before pic side photo so I decided to leave it out.

I also wanted to add that although the after photo is 7 days later, as you can see I can stand straight up. Today at 9 days I can bend over, however I am careful and use a chair then pick up the item.

I don’t strain myself, but I am walking normal and standing normal. No more using the heating pad although I used it prior for my spinal issues.

Still swollen tummy issues fullness and discomfort from lipo on flanks.


Updated on 9 Feb 2022:
I am posting a side pic 2 weeks post surgery where you can see the difference. My breasts are lifting.

Currently the Victoria Secret Knock Out bra I was told to buy is a size 36D. I love my breasts and how natural they look. 

My waist is starting to take on a shape. I am on my 2nd compression garment. I went down a size after using the 3 resizing hooks.


Updated on 26 Feb 2022:
It’s been one month today 1/26/22 since I had my T.T and breast augmentation and I am doing good. I am still swollen and hope it goes down as times goes on otherwise I am very happy!

I had 35 pounds to lose. I am 5’6” and on the day of surgery I weighed 161. Tomorrow morning I will weigh myself and provide an update.

I am happy with how natural my breasts look and that I have cleavage:)

My T.T is looking great although I still am swollen a bit. I didn’t have any bruising and I started walking straight one week after surgery without a walker or cane. I quit using the recliner after 5 days. I wear my medical grade compression garment since surgery. I am on stage 2 garment. I am not crazy about wearing it, but since it is highly recommended and I have seen what a difference it’s makes. I will keep wearing it!

I am very happy on how my belly button turned out. It could not have turned out any better! The same goes for my incision line! I can barely see it!

My next visit with Dr. West is on 3/10/22. I am anxious to see when I can start exercising and doing weights for my arms etc. I would like to look really fit by the summer.

If you are considering a T.T make sure you have assistance at the very least for the first week. You are going to rely on someone for assistance with most things. I had assistance for 2 weeks even tho I was able to walk. You don’t have your strength and even now I still tire easily.


Updated on 11 Mar 2022:
Aftercare is amazing by Dr. West. It should be the norm across the board with all docs, but you don’t see it here. No, I didn’t pay extra for it and my surgery costs were mid-range.

Anyways, I was seen by Dr. West and his nurse who in the operating room at the same time. He asked how I was feeling and I said great! Any pain he asked? Never from my breasts! Lol My tummy tightness in the lower section only.

The compression garment can be uncomfortable, but I have never taken it off other than put on a looser one on Sundays for a break! Dr. West said, after 6 weeks it isn’t necessary to keep wearing it, however, many women prefer it. I read here that it
has benefited many to keep wearing it so I will unless I feel it doesn’t help anymore. 

I changed into a robe and he examined my breasts and told me that they will be giving me a bandeau to help them drop and fluff quicker. Once I am happy with where they are at I can stop wearing it. This helps my nipples go up. Also, we were both happy with my belly button and the healing of my incision scar. He recommended I use a silicone scar gel around my nipples, belly button and my incision.I told him I have scar tape for my incision. He said it was fine as long as I am careful where it’s made. (I will leave it there)

I have minor puckering around my hips. That may need a touch up. We need to wait and see. Dr. West wants to see me again in 6 weeks. Wow I was surprised. 5/5/22 I thought maybe months! Lol

Krystle his nurse then showed me exercises to do for my breasts 3x a day and she took photos in another room.

I sent his staff a thank you gift. A extra big cookie thank you with all their names:)

Btw, I did end up weighing myself and I only lost 5 lbs! I forgot to ask. How can you go down dress sizes and only lose 5 pounds after a tummy tuck? Anyone know? Lol

No pics since I just posted..



Updated on 27 Mar 2022:
Just wanted to provide a photo update. My breasts
are looking great. I wear a bra size 36D. I love the fact that they look and feel natural. I am also happy
that they are the perfect width apart without a weird unnatural gap in between. I have nice cleavage wearing a bra, bathing suits and tank tops.
They do at times feel sensitive like when it’s that time of the month for women, but I am past that! So I can’t explain the sensitivity. It’s not pain,
it might be beneficial sexually but I will have to ask if this is normal. Anyone get sensitive boobs after an augmentation? It’s from time to time.
My tummy still feels a bit tight in the lower part.
I am happy with the progress and my belly button.
The low incision, but I am noticing the puckering on
my right side kind of stick out a little more. I’m a bit worried about it even though you can’t see it under
my underwear. However, in a low bathing suit you might. My sides to my incision extend a bit on each
side so I hope that the scaraway that was recommended helps my scaring.
Overall I am very happy with my results. I do have to start exercising and getting on a program.
Trying to do more walking every morning.
We had a short winter here in the desert and it’s been in the 90’s! I had to stop wearing my compression garment. I couldn’t stand it with this heat! Dr.West told me during the last visit that he
didn’t feel after 2 months there was any need to continue wearing it anyhow. I do continue to wear
the VS knockout bra with the bandeau I was given
to wear, but I do give myself breaks from it with a
regular VS bra on the weekends.
My next appointment with Dr. West is on 5/5/22

I was already a 32C but I was tired of wearing push-up bras. I wanted a reasonable implant that would just lift my boobs giving me my look with a push-up bra but minus the bra. I definitely didn’t want to go too big. I just wanted very minimal change considering the fact that I already had a good amount of breast tissue. I went to my consultation with Dr. West and I just immediately felt like I trusted him if I was going to choose him to do my BA. He asked for me to send him my wish pic where I mentioned that I liked the shape but wanted to go smaller to fit my frame. He ordered a range of different sizes on the day of my surgery and was going to pick one that felt most suitable for my body and my goal. I remember telling him to go as natural as possible and not too big over and over again. Hopefully I didn’t annoy him haha. Overall surgery went smooth. He went with 310cc and incisions are looking great so far. The results were exactly what I envisioned them to be. I am extremely happy considering how nervous I was. Not to mention that it’s only been 5 days and my breasts looked like they’ve already dropped! I was able to go back to work on the 4th day as well. Can’t wait to see how they’ll settle in a year considering how happy I already am with them. Highly recommend this doctor! Great bedside manners as well.

Today marks my one year anniversary since my breast surgery. I waited this long to give a brief, detailed review of my experience from the time I first met with Dr. West to my last follow-up appointment. One of the reasons I decided to consult with Dr. West is because of the complimentary consultations. It made me feel like he wasn't trying to stiff me (others charged $100-$250) because he truly cares about what he does. Our first meeting went rather well. I was instantly comfortable and wasn't afraid to ask questions. In fact, everyone at the office was great from the get go. There is a definite family ambience that emits throughout the office, which I am a huge fan of. I finally decided to schedule "the big day" and we initially agreed on a size ranging from 372-405cc, but I told Dr. West to go smaller if and only if he truthfully believed it wasn't naturally proportional to my body (all while being womanly)...I know, I know, what a challenging request. We ended up settling with 345cc (pretty sure that's it) and my recovery went so well! Honestly, I'd do it all over again. I hardly used any pills from the medication I was prescribed and every follow-up appointment went as smoothly as possible. If I had to pick a 'down side', it's that I was not able to personally meet with Dr. West at every follow-up appointment; however, he is a very busy doctor so it didn't bother me at all. There are also HUGE perks! I received a beauty kit (which I still use), a scar gel, and free botox. Not sure if this was a limited special, but I absolutely loved everything! Overall, this was an experience that was well worth the time and money and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I am 26 years old, 5'4, and I now range from a full C to small D.

I had a fast growing tumor in my breast (size of golf ball) and needed to have it removed. I decided to have a breast augmentation at the same time to address asymmetry from the surgery (and have something to look forward to!) I absolutely love the results with my Natrelle silicone round impacts. They settled so nicely and feel soft and squishy. No one has every asked if I got my boobs done-very natural

My experience with Dr. West was phenomenal. He was patient with me, answered all of my questions, and made sure that my breast and stomach turned out how I wanted them to. He is a perfectionist! I am very happy with my results and I Finally have the confidence I've always wanted.

I did extensive research prior to having a breast augmentation with Dr. West. My surgery was two years ago and I cannot be happier with my results. Dr. West is amazingly talented and has the best office staff. I would give him and his office 10 stars if I could!

I met Doctor West two years ago, right after finding out I was positive for the BRCA1 gene. I decided to have a prophylactic double mastectomy and reconstruction. From my very first appointment with him, he has been so supportive, very informative, he has been so professional, has an excellent bedside manner, and has really treated me like family. He is extremely knowledgeable in everything he does. I am so forever grateful for Dr. West, he helped safe my life! He has done an excellent job making me feel beautiful again. He is the best of the best! Thank you Dr. West!