Do I need a referral to see Dr. Rizvi for a work injury?

In most workers' compensation cases, a referral from your treating physician or authorization from your claims adjuster is required before seeing a specialist. Our office can help coordinate this process. Call us and we will guide you through the steps.

How long does recovery take after reconstructive surgery for a work injury?

Recovery timelines vary significantly depending on the nature and complexity of the injury and procedure. Simple scar revision may require only a few weeks of healing, while complex tendon repair, nerve reconstruction, or flap surgery may require months of rehabilitation. Dr. Rizvi will provide a detailed recovery plan specific to your case.

Can I get a second opinion on my work injury treatment?

Absolutely. Second opinions are an important part of informed medical decision-making, especially for complex reconstructive procedures. We welcome patients seeking a specialist's perspective on their treatment plan.

Workers’ Comp Plastic Surgeon Los Angeles

Q: Can I choose my own reconstructive surgeon for a work injury?

In California, injured workers may have rights to select or change their treating physician under certain circumstances. We recommend consulting with your workers' compensation attorney to understand your specific rights. We are happy to accept referrals from treating physicians and attorneys.

Q: Can reconstructive surgery improve old workplace scars?

Yes. Scar revision surgery can significantly improve the appearance and function of scars resulting from workplace injuries, even years after the original injury. Options include surgical revision, laser treatments, and other non-surgical modalities.

Q: Do you repair tendons injured at work?

Yes. Tendon repair is one of Dr. Rizvi's core surgical specialties. Both flexor and extensor tendon injuries are treated, including complex multi-structure injuries involving tendons, nerves, and vessels.

Conditions We Treat

Work injuries we treat surgically.

Serious workplace injuries span a broad spectrum of trauma. Our practice is equipped to manage the full range of reconstructive needs that follow industrial accidents, construction injuries, repetitive-use conditions, chemical exposures, and occupational trauma of all kinds.

Hand Injuries

Lacerations, avulsions, degloving, and soft tissue injuries of the hand and fingers requiring reconstructive repair and functional restoration.

Crush Injuries

High-energy crush trauma affecting bones, tendons, nerves, and vasculature — often requiring staged reconstruction and rehabilitation planning.

Facial Trauma

Work-related facial injuries including fractures, lacerations, dog bites sustained on the job, eyelid injuries, and post-traumatic scar revision.

Burn Injuries

Thermal, chemical, and electrical burn injuries requiring wound management, skin grafting, contracture release, and long-term reconstruction.

Dog Bites at Work

Significant soft tissue injuries from canine attacks in occupational settings — particularly relevant for postal workers, delivery drivers, and field workers.

Nerve Injuries

Lacerated, compressed, or stretched peripheral nerves resulting in sensory or motor deficits — managed through repair, grafting, or decompression.

Tendon Injuries

Flexor and extensor tendon lacerations, ruptures, and avulsions — requiring primary repair or staged reconstruction to restore hand function.

Complex Lacerations

Deep or irregular lacerations involving multiple tissue layers, requiring careful anatomic repair to minimize scarring and preserve function.

Skin & Soft Tissue Loss

Significant loss of skin coverage from degloving, abrasion, or excision — addressed through grafts, flaps, or staged wound closure techniques.

Soft Tissue Defects

Underlying defects in fat, fascia, or muscle following traumatic injury, requiring reconstruction to restore tissue volume and surface coverage.

Scar Contractures

Tight, restricting scars that limit joint movement and daily function — treated through release, grafting, or flap reconstruction.

Delayed Wound Healing

Chronic wounds and ulcers that have failed to heal appropriately following initial treatment — evaluated and managed with advanced wound care protocols.

Procedures

Reconstructive procedures for work injury recovery.

The right procedure depends on the nature and severity of the injury, the structures involved, and the functional goals of recovery. Each treatment plan at West Empire Surgery is individualized, evidence-based, and coordinated with the broader workers’ compensation care team.

Scar Revision

Surgical and non-surgical scar revision to improve the appearance, texture, and flexibility of scars resulting from work injuries. Options include excision, Z-plasty, W-plasty, laser resurfacing, and combination approaches.

Skin Grafting

Split-thickness and full-thickness skin grafts used to restore surface coverage following burns, degloving injuries, or wounds with significant skin loss that cannot be closed primarily.

Local Flap Reconstruction

Tissue rearrangement techniques using adjacent skin and soft tissue to close complex wounds, fill defects, and restore contour in areas where direct closure or grafting alone is insufficient.

Complex Wound Closure

Advanced closure techniques for contaminated, irregular, or high-tension wounds requiring layered repair, tension management, and careful tissue handling to optimize healing and minimize scarring.

Tendon Repair

Primary and staged repair of flexor and extensor tendon injuries of the hand, wrist, and forearm — with appropriate post-operative therapy protocols to restore strength and range of motion.

Nerve Repair

Microsurgical nerve repair, nerve grafting, and nerve decompression for peripheral nerve injuries sustained at work — aimed at restoring sensation and motor function to the affected extremity.

Burn Reconstruction

Comprehensive burn reconstruction including debridement, skin grafting, contracture release, and staged scar management for workers who sustained thermal, chemical, or electrical burns on the job.

Facial Reconstruction

Reconstruction of facial structures damaged by work-related trauma, including dog bite repair, laceration reconstruction, soft tissue restoration, and post-traumatic scar revision.

Contracture Release

Surgical release of scar contractures restricting joint mobility or causing functional impairment — followed by skin grafting or flap coverage as needed to maintain the correction.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction

Restoration of volume, contour, and structural integrity in areas of significant soft tissue loss — using local, regional, or free flap techniques depending on the extent of the defect.

Functional Reconstruction

Surgery specifically aimed at restoring mechanical function — including joint mobility, grip strength, sensory recovery, and return-to-work capability — often in coordination with occupational therapy.

Expertise

Why referring providers trust Dr. Rizvi.

Complex work injury reconstruction demands a surgeon with deep specialty training, multidisciplinary experience, and a demonstrated ability to manage both the surgical and administrative demands of workers’ compensation cases. Dr. Rizvi brings all of these to every referral.

Board Certification

Dr. Rizvi is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and holds added certification in Hand Surgery — two of the most relevant specialties for reconstructive work injury care.

Fellowship Training

Fellowship-trained in hand and microsurgery at LA County+USC Medical Center and in craniofacial surgery at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles — training programs that develop precision in the most complex surgical environments.

QME Certification

As a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) in California’s workers’ compensation system, Dr. Rizvi provides independent medical evaluations and is deeply familiar with the documentation and procedural requirements of WC cases.

Complex Trauma Experience

Extensive clinical experience managing high-complexity reconstructive cases involving multiple tissue layers, multi-structure injuries, and patients with significant functional deficits following occupational trauma.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Practiced at working alongside occupational therapists, physical therapists, pain management specialists, and treating physicians to deliver coordinated, outcome-focused care.

Timely Documentation

Operative reports, progress notes, and treatment plans are prepared accurately and delivered in a timely manner to support case timelines, attorney coordination, and adjuster communication.

Dedicated Referral Support

Our office team is experienced in workers’ compensation coordination, authorization processes, and direct communication with referring attorneys, case managers, and adjusters throughout the care cycle.

Patient-Centered Care

Every injured worker who comes to West Empire Surgery receives individualized attention, a clear treatment plan, and honest communication about surgical goals, recovery expectations, and return-to-work timelines.

The Process

How workers’ compensation
surgical care works.

The workers’ compensation process can feel complex, particularly when serious injury requires specialist surgical care. Below is a straightforward overview of how the process typically unfolds for patients who need reconstructive surgery — from injury through recovery and return to work.

Injury Occurs

The workplace injury is sustained. Immediate medical attention is received — in an emergency setting if necessary. A workers’ compensation claim is opened through the employer.

Initial Evaluation

The injured worker is seen by a treating physician, occupational medicine provider, or emergency physician. Initial stabilization and acute care is provided. A referral to a reconstructive specialist may be made at this stage or shortly after.

Referral to Reconstructive Specialist

The treating physician, attorney, or case manager initiates a referral to West Empire Surgery. Authorization is coordinated with the adjuster or MPN as required. Our office facilitates this process to minimize delays.

Specialist Consultation

Dr. Rizvi evaluates the injury, reviews prior imaging and records, and provides a comprehensive clinical assessment. A detailed treatment plan is developed and communicated to the patient, referring provider, and case manager.

Surgical Planning & Authorization

Recommended procedures are documented and submitted for workers’ compensation authorization. Our office coordinates directly with the adjuster and case manager to obtain timely approvals and schedule surgery without unnecessary delay.

Surgery & Treatment

Reconstructive surgery is performed at an appropriate facility — hospital or ambulatory surgery center — based on the complexity of the procedure. Dr. Rizvi holds operative privileges at Adventist Health Glendale, Huntington Memorial Hospital, and Providence St. Joseph Medical Center.

Post-Operative Care & Rehabilitation

Post-surgical care is coordinated with appropriate therapy — occupational therapy for hand injuries, physical therapy for extremity or functional recovery cases — to maximize the surgical result and restore functional capacity.

Follow-Up & Progress Documentation

Regular follow-up appointments track healing, functional recovery, and overall progress. Clinical notes and progress reports are prepared and made available to the treating team, case manager, and attorney as needed throughout recovery.

Return-to-Work Planning

As recovery progresses, work capacity and return-to-duty timelines are assessed and documented. Dr. Rizvi provides functional assessments and communicates with the care team regarding appropriate modified duty, restrictions, and full return-to-work status.

For Legal & Case Teams

A surgical partner attorneys and case managers can rely on.

Personal injury liens accepted
Workers’ compensation cases
Participation in most MPNs
QME independent medical evaluations
Timely appointments for referred patients
Direct communication with referring attorneys and case managers
Detailed operative reports and clinical documentation
Treatment plans and functional assessments
Continuity of care from consultation through recovery
Coordinated authorization support

West Empire Surgery understands that workers’ compensation and personal injury cases operate under specific procedural demands. Attorneys and case managers need a surgical partner who communicates clearly, documents thoroughly, and moves efficiently — without creating administrative burden.

Our practice is structured to meet those expectations. From initial referral coordination and authorization support to post-operative reporting and functional assessments, we keep referring attorneys and case managers informed at every step of the care cycle.

Dr. Rizvi’s role as a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) also means he is deeply familiar with the evidentiary and documentation standards required in California workers’ compensation proceedings — an advantage for attorneys managing complex or disputed claims.

To refer a patient or discuss a case, contact our office directly at (424) 293-8861 or info@wesurgery.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about
workers’ comp surgery.

Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from injured workers, attorneys, case managers, and adjusters. If you have a specific question not addressed here, contact our office directly.

Do you accept workers’ compensation cases?

Yes. West Empire Surgery accepts workers’ compensation cases and works directly with claims adjusters, nurse case managers, and attorneys throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Rizvi?

In most workers’ compensation cases, a referral from your treating physician or authorization from your adjuster is required before seeing a specialist. Our office can help coordinate this process. Call us and we will guide you through the steps.

Who pays for reconstructive surgery for a workplace injury?

For confirmed workers’ compensation claims, the employer’s insurance carrier typically covers medically necessary surgical treatment. Our office works directly with the adjuster or case manager to obtain proper authorization before proceeding.

Can I choose my own reconstructive surgeon?

In California, injured workers may have the right to select or change their treating physician under certain circumstances. We recommend consulting with your workers’ compensation attorney regarding your specific rights. We are happy to accept referrals from treating physicians and attorneys.

How long does recovery take after reconstructive surgery?

Recovery timelines depend on the injury and procedure. Simple scar revision may require only a few weeks, while complex tendon repair, nerve reconstruction, or flap surgery may require months of rehabilitation. Dr. Rizvi provides a detailed recovery plan specific to each case.

Can reconstructive surgery improve old workplace scars?

Yes. Scar revision can significantly improve the appearance and function of scars from workplace injuries — even years after the original injury. Options include surgical revision, laser treatments, and combination approaches.

Do you treat workplace burn injuries?

Yes. West Empire Surgery provides burn reconstruction and scar management for workers who sustained burn injuries on the job, including skin grafting, contracture release, laser resurfacing, and staged reconstruction.

Do you repair tendons injured at work?

Yes. Tendon repair is one of Dr. Rizvi’s core specialties. Both flexor and extensor tendon injuries are treated, including complex multi-structure injuries involving tendons, nerves, and vessels.

Do you perform skin grafts for work injuries?

Yes. Skin grafting is performed for significant soft tissue loss from workplace injuries, including degloving injuries, burns, and wounds requiring coverage after debridement.

Do you work with workers’ compensation attorneys?

Yes. Our practice regularly collaborates with workers’ compensation attorneys, providing thorough documentation, operative reports, and clinical support throughout the case lifecycle.

Do you see patients whose claims have been denied?

We evaluate patients regardless of claim status. Dr. Rizvi is also a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) in California’s workers’ compensation system and can provide independent medical evaluations when appropriate.

Can I get a second opinion on my treatment?

Absolutely. Second opinions are an important part of informed medical decision-making for complex reconstructive procedures. We welcome patients seeking a specialist’s perspective on their treatment plan.

What if my injury happened years ago?

Reconstructive surgery can address functional and aesthetic consequences of workplace injuries long after the initial trauma. Scar revision, contracture release, nerve decompression, and soft tissue correction are often performed months or years after the original injury.

Can surgery improve function after a work injury?

Yes. Restoring function is the primary goal of reconstructive surgery for workplace injuries. Procedures such as tendon repair, nerve reconstruction, contracture release, and scar revision are specifically designed to improve range of motion, strength, and daily function.

How soon can I be seen?

We prioritize timely evaluation of work injury cases. Contact our office directly and our team will work to schedule an appointment as quickly as possible — often within days for urgent reconstructive needs.

Is West Empire Surgery in most MPNs?

West Empire Surgery participates in many Medical Provider Networks (MPNs) in California. Contact our office to confirm participation with your specific carrier.

What facial injuries do you treat from workplace accidents?

Dr. Rizvi treats a full range of facial trauma from workplace accidents, including facial fractures, lacerations, dog bite injuries, nasal trauma, eyelid injuries, and post-traumatic scar revision.

Do you treat crush injuries from workplace accidents?

Yes. Crush injuries of the hand and upper extremity are among the most complex reconstructive challenges in work injury surgery. Dr. Rizvi’s fellowship training in hand and microsurgery makes him well-equipped to manage these injuries comprehensively.

Can workers’ compensation pay for scar revision surgery?

When a scar causes functional limitation, pain, contracture, or other medically significant impairment related to a workplace injury, scar revision may be covered under workers’ compensation. Our office can assist in obtaining proper authorization.

What documentation do you provide for WC cases?

West Empire Surgery provides operative reports, progress notes, treatment plans, and functional assessments to support the claims and legal process. We prioritize timely, accurate documentation to facilitate case management.

Why West Empire

The right surgical partner for
complex work injuries.

Not all reconstructive surgeons are equally equipped to manage the complexity that serious workplace injuries present. At West Empire Surgery, board certification, fellowship training, and deep experience with the workers’ compensation system combine to deliver a level of surgical and administrative competence that referring providers and injured workers can depend on.

We approach every case as a clinical challenge and a personal responsibility. Injured workers deserve a clear diagnosis, an honest treatment plan, and a surgeon who is both technically skilled and genuinely invested in their recovery. That is what we offer — consistent, individualized, outcome-focused reconstructive care in a setting designed to feel professional, not intimidating.

Located in Studio City on Ventura Boulevard, West Empire Surgery serves patients throughout the San Fernando Valley, Greater Los Angeles, and the broader Southern California region. We are conveniently accessible to injured workers and referral sources from Burbank, Glendale, North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, and across Los Angeles County.

Internal links: Learn more about our Hand & Wrist Surgery, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Craniofacial Surgery, and Referral Services.

Advanced Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery for Workplace Injuries.

Workplace injuries often require more than emergency care.