Accepting New Patients | Virtual Consultations Available
Elizabeth Arena MD FACS | Breast Surgical Oncologist
Breast cancer surgeon in Los Angeles
Dr Elizabeth Arena provides breast-conserving, oncoplastic and mastectomy care, along with second opinions and high-risk assessment, from her Los Angeles practice. You work with the same surgeon from diagnosis through follow-up, with the specialists your case requires coordinated around you.
One surgeon throughout your breast care
Breast care often involves several specialists. Dr Arena remains your breast surgeon from the first consultation through follow-up and independently coordinates the radiologist, plastic surgeon, medical oncologist and genetic specialist best suited to your case. Your plan is built around your diagnosis and priorities, rather than one system’s fixed roster.
- Clear options.
- Coordinated specialists.
- One surgeon who knows your case.
What brings you here
Choose the path that best matches where you are now.
Newly diagnosed
Understand your diagnosis, surgical options and the decisions that need to be made before treatment begins.
Seeking a second opinion
Have your diagnosis or recommended operation reviewed before you commit to a treatment plan.
A lump or abnormal finding
Arrange an evaluation for a breast lump, abnormal mammogram, nipple discharge, breast pain or another concern.
High risk or genetic concern
Build a personalized screening and risk-reduction plan based on family history, biopsy findings or genetic risk.
Breast cancer surgery planned around you
When breast conservation is appropriate, Dr Arena considers both complete cancer removal and the shape of the breast after surgery. Options may include lumpectomy, oncoplastic lumpectomy, mastectomy, nipple-sparing or skin-sparing approaches, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and risk-reducing surgery. If reconstruction is part of the plan, Dr Arena coordinates with a plastic surgeon, who performs the reconstruction.
Evaluation and in-office breast ultrasound
If you have a new breast symptom or abnormal imaging result, Dr Arena can examine the area and use in-office ultrasound when clinically appropriate. Some minor procedures can also be completed in the office, helping patients move from concern to a clearer next step without unnecessary handoffs.
Understand your risk and your options
If your family history, genetic test results, prior biopsy findings or other factors suggest a higher risk of breast cancer, Dr Arena can help you understand what that risk means and plan the appropriate next steps. Depending on your situation, care may include genetic testing, personalized screening, ongoing surveillance and discussion of risk-reducing surgical options.
- Step 1Understand your risk
- Step 2Build a screening plan
- Step 3Review prevention options
A team chosen for your case
Breast care may involve radiology, plastic surgery, medical oncology and genetics. Dr Arena remains your breast surgeon and helps coordinate the specialists your diagnosis and preferences require. When reconstruction is part of the plan, the plastic surgeon performs that portion of the surgery.
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01
Consult with Dr Arena
Review the diagnosis, imaging, pathology and the decisions in front of you.
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02
Understand your options
Discuss the surgical approaches that may fit your diagnosis and priorities.
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Coordinate the right specialists
Bring in radiology, plastics, oncology or genetics when your case requires them.
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Continue with one breast surgeon
Maintain continuity through surgery planning and follow-up.
Meet Elizabeth Arena MD FACS
Dr Elizabeth Arena is a double board-certified breast surgical oncologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She cares for patients with breast cancer, high-risk concerns and benign breast conditions in Los Angeles. Her approach emphasizes careful planning, clear explanation and continuity from consultation through follow-up.
Dr Arena joins the hosts of Good Morning LaLa Land to talk about breast health and early detection.
What patients say about their care
Patients often describe the value of having a surgeon who explains the options clearly, coordinates the next steps and remains involved throughout care.
“She guided me through my whole journey of breast cancer, which is not easy. She is very thorough, takes time to answer all patient questions, and never abandoned me even though there were challenges with my case. She is humble, caring, and empathetic.”
“Dr. Arena is an amazing surgeon. She did an excellent job and has always been so attentive and caring during all of the pre-op visits and post-ops. Dr. Arena takes the time to listen and answer all of the patient’s questions and concerns.”
“Dr. Arena is very kind and understanding. She takes the time to explain everything to her patients thoroughly, and you never feel rushed. I always felt heard and cared for.”
Planning your consultation
Insurance and self-pay
We work with most PPO plans and also welcome self-pay patients. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan. Call the office so the team can review your specific benefits.
Second opinions
A second opinion can help you understand whether the diagnosis, proposed operation and timing fit your situation before treatment begins. Dr Arena reviews the available records and explains the surgical options and trade-offs. Fees and eligibility are confirmed by the office.
Virtual care
Virtual consultations and second opinions may be available to patients located in states where Dr Arena is licensed. The office will confirm eligibility when you request an appointment.
Los Angeles practice
Dr Arena sees patients in Los Angeles near Cedars-Sinai, at 8635 West 3rd Street, Suite 880 West, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see Dr Arena?
Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan. Contact the office and your insurer before your visit so you know what is required.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring any available imaging reports and images, pathology reports, prior operative notes, a medication list and your insurance information. The office will tell you which records are needed for your specific appointment.
Can I request a second opinion before surgery?
Yes. Dr Arena can review the available records and explain the diagnosis, the recommended operation and the alternatives that may apply. The office will confirm the records, fees and eligibility before the consultation.
Does Dr Arena perform breast reconstruction?
Dr Arena performs the breast cancer operation. When reconstruction is part of the plan, she coordinates with a plastic surgeon, who performs the reconstruction.
Does the practice accept insurance?
The practice works with most PPO plans and also welcomes self-pay patients. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, so the office should review your specific benefits before the visit.
Are virtual consultations available?
Virtual consultations and second opinions may be available to patients in states where Dr Arena is licensed. The office will confirm whether a virtual visit is appropriate and available for you.
Can I see Dr Arena for a breast lump or abnormal imaging result?
Yes. You can request an evaluation for a breast lump, abnormal mammogram, nipple discharge, breast pain or another breast concern. The appropriate exam, imaging review and next steps depend on the finding.
Can Dr Arena help if I have a family history or genetic risk?
Yes. High-risk care may include reviewing family history or genetic results, planning personalized screening and discussing surveillance or risk-reducing options based on your situation.
Speak with Dr Arena about your next step
Whether you have a new diagnosis, want another opinion, are weighing surgical options or need a concerning finding assessed, the first step is a consultation focused on your specific situation.
After you submit the request, the office will contact you to confirm the appropriate consultation and the records or information needed.
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