West Empire Surgery · Studio City, CA

Our
Team.

A practice built on precision, expertise, and trust. Each member of our team brings specialized training and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care across Los Angeles County.

The Practice
Founder & Lead Surgeon Dr. Mort Rizvi

Founder · Lead Surgeon

Dr. Mort
Rizvi

Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr. Mort Rizvi is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with fellowship training at Houston Methodist Hospital and advanced microsurgical training at LA County+USC Medical Center. His clinical expertise spans hand and wrist surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, craniofacial procedures, and gender-affirming care — with deep experience managing cases across personal injury, workers’ compensation, and insurance systems throughout Los Angeles County.

As founder of West Empire Surgery, Dr. Rizvi leads a practice defined by precision, individualized care, and an unwavering commitment to restoring both form and function for every patient.

Plastic & Reconstructive Hand & Microsurgery Craniofacial Gender Affirmation QME Certified

Physician Associate · Board-Certified

Katie
Donhauser

PA-C

Katie Donhauser, PA-C, is a dedicated and skilled physician associate committed to delivering exceptional patient care. She graduated at the top of her class, completed her graduate studies at Western University of Health Sciences, and earned her certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Her prior experience includes serving as a Medical Scribe at Huntington Orthopedic Institute and a Medical Assistant at Hamza Mohsen MD Neurology Center for Adults & Children, where she developed a strong foundation in patient care and clinical coordination. Katie holds multiple certifications, including Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Basic Life Support (BLS), both issued by the American Heart Association. Her comprehensive education, diverse clinical experience, and commitment to patient well-being make her an invaluable member of the West Empire Plastic Surgery team.

Physician Associate Katie Donhauser, PA-C
Physician Associate Isabella Murray, PA-C

Physician Associate · Board-Certified

Isabella
Murray

PA-C

Isabella Murray, PA-C is a dedicated and skilled Certified Physician Assistant at West Empire Plastic Surgery, where she works closely with Dr. Rizvi to provide exceptional care in both plastic and hand surgery. Isabella specializes in pre-operative assessments, patient education, and surgical assistance, ensuring every patient receives personalized attention and a seamless surgical experience. Her collaborative approach and commitment to excellence make her an integral part of the practice. Isabella earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Chapman University and went on to complete her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Western University of Health Sciences. Before joining West Empire Plastic Surgery, she gained invaluable hands-on experience as an Emergency Medical Technician at PRN Ambulance, where she provided critical care in high-pressure situations. Additionally, Isabella’s leadership skills were honed during her tenure as Head Lead Intern at CHOC Children’s Medical Intelligence and Innovation Institute, where she managed operations for over 80 students and collaborated with hospital leadership to create impactful learning opportunities. With her diverse background and unwavering commitment to patient care, Isabella brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion to every interaction, ensuring the highest standard of care for our patients.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Victoria Shevlot

CFO

Victoria Shevlot holds 9+ years of progressive management experience with staff ranging from 5-35. Victoria has served at the Manager level position in 5 medical companies and is highly attentive to the needs of the practice and its patients. Victoria marvelously operates with the highest level of ethics, integrity and confidentiality.

At West Empire, Victoria is highly knowledgable about the surgical procedures that we offer. When going through your surgical journey, Victoria will be alongside your experience during the pre-op and post-op stages.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Rocio Vargas

Senior Manager

Rocio Vargas is a seasoned medical professional with over two decades of experience delivering comprehensive patient care. As a Certified Medical Assistant, she has built a strong foundation in clinical support, with extensive experience in workers’ compensation and personal injury—helping patients navigate complex treatment and recovery processes with clarity and confidence.

Her background also includes over 12 years as a Surgery Scheduler, where her precision and organization ensured seamless coordination of surgical care. With additional certifications in phlebotomy, casting and splinting, EMT, and lymphatic drainage, Rocio brings a well-rounded, hands-on approach to patient support. Fluent in Spanish, she is committed to accessible, patient-centered care and plays a key role in guiding individuals through their surgical journey at West Empire Plastic Surgery.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Caleb Yearick

Assistant Manager

Caleb Yearick is an administrative professional with over five years of experience supporting operations across multiple industries in the greater Los Angeles area. With a strong foundation in business administration, he ensures day-to-day workflows run efficiently while maintaining a high standard of organization, professionalism, and patient-focused service.

He earned his Associate of Science from Santa Monica College and his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Los Angeles, graduating magna cum laude and consistently recognized on the Dean’s List. He is currently pursuing his MBA at Cal State LA’s AACSB-accredited College of Business and Economics. With a focused interest in plastics, aesthetics, and skincare, Caleb brings a thoughtful blend of business acumen and industry passion to support both patients and clinical teams at West Empire Plastic Surgery.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Joy Ramirez

Medical Assistant

Joycelyn Ramirez is a skilled Medical Assistant who brings a strong foundation in clinical care, patient coordination, and administrative support to West Empire Plastic Surgery. She completed her Medical Assistant training at High Desert Medical College and is CPR/AED/BLS certified through the American Heart Association. Joycelyn is dedicated to delivering safe, attentive, and patient-centered care while supporting both clinical and front office operations.

Bilingual in English and Spanish, Joycelyn is passionate about creating a welcoming environment and ensuring clear communication with patients from diverse backgrounds. She is committed to upholding the highest standards of care and contributing to the exceptional experience West Empire is known for.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Cindy Aleman

Patient Care Coordinator

Cindy is a seasoned medical assistant with over a decade of experience across a range of clinical settings. Her career led her to develop a strong passion for plastic surgery, where she has seen firsthand the impact these procedures can have on a patient’s confidence and overall well-being.

Committed to continuous growth, Cindy stays current with advancements in aesthetic medicine while bringing a thoughtful, compassionate approach to patient care. Her experience, attention to detail, and dedication to each individual make her a valued member of the West Empire Plastic Surgery team.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Jessica Melgoza

Surgical Coordinator

Jessica is the welcoming face of West Empire, serving as the front desk receptionist with professionalism and warmth. With four years of experience in the medical aesthetics field, she brings a strong foundation in patient care, customer service, and front-office coordination.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Jessica ensures clear communication and a comfortable experience for patients from diverse backgrounds. Her background in hospitality and previous roles at medical spas have shaped her detail-oriented and patient-focused approach, making her an essential part of maintaining an organized, efficient, and welcoming environment.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Yasaira Perez

Medical Biller

Yasaira Perez is a dedicated Medical Biller with over 14 years of experience across chiropractic, family practice, and surgical settings. Her background includes extensive work in personal injury and workers’ compensation, where she developed a strong foundation in patient coordination, insurance processes, and clinical support.

At West Empire Surgery Center, Yasaira manages insurance verification, authorizations, and complex billing workflows with precision and clarity. She holds a Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding and is known for her attention to detail, communication, and commitment to helping both patients and providers navigate the financial side of care with confidence.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Gigi Lopez

Medical Biller

Gigi Lopez is West Empire Plastic Surgery’s Billing & Scheduling Specialist with 10+ years in medical billing, coding, and OR coordination across hospital and ambulatory surgery settings. She manages end-to-end claims (ICD-10/CPT), payer contracting and credentialing, A/R reconciliation, and patient statements. Known for a calm, solutions-first approach in high-volume environments, Gigi bridges the gap between clinical and administrative teams to keep cases moving smoothly and patients informed.

Team Member Name -->
Team Member
— Photo —

Vera Kolajian

P.I. Coordinator

Vera Kolajian is a Personal Injury Case Manager at West Empire, guiding clients through every stage of their care and legal process. She manages intake, organizes medical and insurance documentation, coordinates treatment follow-ups, and works closely with attorneys to support efficient case development.

With a background in case management, accounting, and office administration, Vera brings strong organization, attention to detail, and clear communication to every case. Fluent in English, Armenian, Arabic, and Turkish, she ensures patients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their recovery journey.

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery· Hand & Wrist Surgery· Craniofacial Surgery· Gender Affirmation· Pain Management· X-Ray Imaging· Studio City, CA· Los Angeles County· Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery· Hand & Wrist Surgery· Craniofacial Surgery· Gender Affirmation· Pain Management· X-Ray Imaging· Studio City, CA· Los Angeles County·

Get in Touch

Meet us
in person.

We’re located in Studio City and serve patients throughout Los Angeles County. Our team is ready to guide your care from consultation through recovery.

Book a Consultation Contact Our Office