Fantastic surgeon, great guy, and a superb, knowledgeable, problem solving back office. Couldn't be more pleased with results and care. 10 stars! read more

If I could leave 10 stars, I would do so. Dr. Apostolides and his whole team are simply amazing. I am a breast cancer, reconstruction, patient and a woman of color. I say that because it didn't matter to Dr. A and his team, I was just me. My family was included and it made my journey easier to understand and handle. The whole team supported me through every appointment, surgery, email, and phone call. I don't know what I would've done without them . I am forever grateful and truly blessed. Dr. Apostolides, Ashley, Vanessa and Jill...you are all so amazing. I appreciate EVERYTHING you have done for me. read more

I would 100% recommend Dr. Apostolides for any cosmetic procedure you would like done. I struggled with belly fat as I aged, and diet and exercise would no longer accomplish anything. I went to Dr. Apostolides for a tummy tuck and liposuction. He gave me my tummy, my waist, and my figure back! Not only is he an extremely skilled surgeon, his is also meticulous, thoughtful, and caring with his patients. He took all of my fears away and gave me the gift of confidence! I cannot thank you enough Dr. A! read more

Love Dr Apostolides at Defy. Helped me through reconstruction after mastectomy surgery. Recommend him to anyone! read more

Dr Apostolides is not only a top notch breast surgeon he is available to his patients through email and follow ups in his office. This doctor was referred to me and let me tell you, between his communication skills to his beautiful work you cannot go wrong. Trust you have found your team member. Works out of the surgery center on the Scripps La Jolla campus. read more

I have had the greatest experience with Dr. Apostolides and his staff. I came to see him due to breast cancer and he helped calm my fears! He is very thorough, takes his time answering questions and addressing concerns. He replies quickly if you need to contact him at any time. He went into my double mastectomy with my breast surgeon and placed my expanders to prepare for reconstruction/implants. Months later, he performed my exchange surgery and left me looking and feeling beautiful! I'm so happy with his work and I highly recommend him! He listened to my needs and desires and exceeded my goal! read more

I am sorry to say that I am highly disappointed with the reconstruction Dr. Apostolides did after my Mastectomy. He did a lift on the right side since it had been radiated and reconstruction with an implant on the left breast that had a mastectomy. I had several second oppinions by plastic surgeons. They all agreed with me that the implant was way oversized . My breasts are so uneven!! And the implant sloshes from side to side and looks flat in profile. The doctor said he would do a revision at mo extra cost, but there is no way to trust his revision after the first surgery. It is really psychologically painful to have to undergo a revision of both breasts. Undergoing a mastectomy was trauma enough, but hete I am having to spend a lot of money to go under the knife again to fix his mess. He's a nice guy, but I would never recommend anyone to him. read more

About one year ago, I found out I was BRCA2 positive. I decided after much thought I was going to take preventative actions which included a double mastectomy. This was not an easy decision, especially because I have never gone under the knife of a plastic surgeon. Also, I can't lie I've watched a lot of the show "Botched", so I was extremely nervous. Needless to say, I was on a mission to find a plastic surgeon that was going to GREAT work. Dr. Apostolides was referred to me by my breast surgeon. At this point, I had met/interviewed six other plastic surgeons (all referrals from different people and doctors) and to this point felt more lost and confused then I did when I started this journey. I really thought finding a great plastic surgeon would be easy but NO. Anyways, I called Dr. A's office and made my appt. initially I was advised he wasn't in my network which was a big deal for me. However, his admin assured me he will work with my insurance and I should not let that hinder me from coming in to meet with him. At this point, I decided I had nothing to lose so I went in and oh my gosh I am so glad I did. Dr. A was the first PS that made me feel confident about the results I was going to get. He was so easy to talk to, he answered all my questions(and by this point I had a ton) and addressed all my concerns every step of the way. I even saw him at a breast cancer / BRCA event held at the Jewish Center which made me so happy because that showed me he really cares about the work he does and people he works with. On 6/7 I had a nipple sparring double mastectomy with expanders and 9/17 I had my exchange. I was so happy with my initial results and overall experience I opted to also get a full tummy tuck for some scars on had on my abdomen. Honestly, this has been the best experience ever. I am so excited and happy with the results it's crazy. I can not recommend Dr. A enough he is a true artist. read more

I had the very unfortunate luck of testing positive for the BRCA gene mutation. Think Angelina Jolie minus the millions, the fame and the Brad Pitt.. After being told I had an 87% chance of having breast cancer and seeing my mom go through it 3 times, I knew I had to be proactive to possibly save my life. Dr.Apostolides came highly recommended by women in a Facebook support group and by other scripps hospital doctors who were familiar with his work and said he was the best for reconstruction. They were absolutely right! It's so traumatic to basically have parts of your body amputated , especially in your 30s and while I knew having mastectomies wouldn't be pretty, I didn't feel like the reconstruction of my breasts had to be terrible as well. Women deserve to look in the mirror and feel beautiful, not just feel alive. Dr. A instantly settled my nerves when I met him, and answered all of my questions and concerns. I left his office feeling empowered and confident about my future for the first time since my diagnosis. ( The other plastic surgeon I met with at UCSD left me crying in her parking lot.) A few days ago I had my 2nd stage implant reconstruction and although I know it takes time to settle, I'm floored by how beautiful my new breasts look thanks to him. We worked together to create my goal outcome and he delivered beyond my expectations. While I hope you never have to meet him because of cancer, I recommend you look no further for your plastic surgery needs, especially when it come to breast surgery. He's an artist and the nicest guy! Special shout-out to his staff too, Ashley and Vanessa, who make you feel like you are hanging out with friends anytime you go in to their office. I'm incredibly grateful for my experience @Defy! read more

Dr. A is an amazing surgeon and an incredibly caring human being. He and his fabulous staff are there for you every step of the way. Highly recommend him. read more

I have seen a lot of breasts in my day but never anything as good as what Dr. Apostolides gave me. Can I give him 6 stars?!?! Don't 2nd guess this man. Just book with him! read more

I started my breast cancer journey, one year ago, in October, 2017. I had a lumpectomy which greatly disfigured my breast... The lump, although small, had tentacles which wove in and out of lobes. Unfortunately, there was some minuscule remaining cancer, which did not show up on any imaging. I required more surgery in order to have clean margins. I also had cancer in two lymph nodes, so cancer was beginning to spread through my lymphatic system. I was referred to Dr A by my general surgeon. Dr A explained all of my choices for reconstruction. I was very nervous about the thought of going forward with any type of reconstructive work. In fact, I thought I could live with the deformity, since I was 68. I had an epiphany, closer to my second surgery date. I did not want any hidden cancer to be present in either breast. I could not live with that fear. I decided, a few days before surgery,to have a double mastectomy! Doctor A assisted my surgeon, and placed expanders in both breasts. I had to go through radiation for 5 weeks. After radiation, 3 months later, Dr A took fat from my flanks, and injected it into my breasts, a fat grafting technique which thickens and nourishes the breast skin that supports the expanders. This is a very nourishing procedure for radiated skin and tissue. I ended up with a more attractive silhouette, with a reduction in lower back fat and a slimmer waist! This is what I refer to as making lemonade out of lemons! I had to wait 6 months, post radiation, till I could have my expanders replaced with Natrelle gummy bear implants. I had the swap a week ago today. I am thrilled with the results. The original deformed breast is a thing of the past. What deformity? I now have feminine, firm breasts..... and, a smaller waistline! I realize that no matter what our age, as women, we should always feel good about how we look, cancer or no cancer. I am so grateful to Dr A for his amazing surgical skills and creative eye. He is always encouraging and caring. He asks his patients to email him with any concerns, and he replies very quickly. Cancer is not fair. Cancer is prevalent. With modern research, up-to-date medical and reconstructive techniques, we can go on to live healthy lives for years to come. Breast removal need no longer be a frightening barbaric procedure. With reconstructive surgery, plastic surgeons, like Dr A, can help women retain their femininity, and self confidence. I highly recommend Dr A . He helped me change my attitude. I decided to make lemonade out of lemons and I now embrace the new 'me'. read more

I recently saw Dr. Apostolides for botox and I couldn't be HAPPIER! I am 47 and have never had this procedure done before, and I must admit that I was a bit hesitant. I have heard some pretty bad stories from friends and colleagues about bruising, and that it can be painful etc. I experienced none of that...in fact, quite the contrary. His technique is amazing..I didn't react (cringe, wince, yell, scream... lol) as he was doing the injections. I had no bruising at all. The only thing I do have is a beautifully smooth forehead, the "11" between my eyes is gone, and my expression lines around my eyes have softened...and I am very "expressive" lol, so I am thrilled! I referred about 20 of my friends and clients to him, and I have heard and seen wonderful things from them as well. I will continue to see Dr. Apostolides for botox in the future...and possibly other procedures when I need them! By the way, his staff is awesome. Very professional and accommodating! read more

Went here to see Ruthann for lip injections. The place was adorable and all of the girls are so sweet & helpful!! Ruthann is hands down the best injector in SD will not let anyone else touch my lips!!! I highly recommend this office and Ruthann read more

I've met with and know a lot of plastic surgeons and Dr. A is the best- he is an expert in his field. I had a breast aug revision and am supremely happy with the entire process.He makes you welcomed and comfortable from the moment you even schedule a consultation, when you meet with him and post-procedure. His staff is wonderful- they are like a family there. I highly recommend you see Dr. A for any/everything! You will be happier for it! read more

I feel very thankful that a dear friend of mine recommended that I meet with Dr. Apostolides to discuss getting an explant procedure. I've had my implants for 35 years with no problems but recently they have become encapsulated so I needed some sound advice. Dr Apostolides made me feel very comfortable and gave me a few options and photos from past procedures (which were great). He is very approachable and let me know that I could get back to him with any other questions or concerns moving forward. This is the doctor I will have do my explant surgery when the time is right. Karla read more

I had a mastectomy in September 2017 and Dr. Apostilides was referred to me by my Scripps breast surgeon. I was a little skeptical about plastic surgery but he's been great at ensuring my health and skin was in optimum condition for reconstruction. He has not rushed the process and explained each step as it pertains specificially to me. I appreciate that Dr. A takes the extra step in patient care. read more

Don't let this guy touch your body! I had absolutely gorgeous legs and he destroyed my inner thighs beyond repair. My legs used to be my greatest physical asset I had and now they're my worst nightmare. Dr. Apostolides told me after the surgery, "Just go back to the gym. They'll be fine." I've been back to the gym for several years now. No amount of exercise or muscle building can fix the mistakes he made. I'm scarred for life. :-( read more

I cant write a review about the doctor because we dint even get in to see him at our appointment.. Turns out they wouldn't take our insurance even though we clearly had told them over the phone what we had when making the appointment but even though that was ok I understood the situation I dint had a problem with it. I asked what the cost of the consult would be that I would pay for it cash she hesitated on telling me that it was $100 because I would probably couldn't afford the surgery because it was too high costly wise.. Who are they to tell me if i can or not afford something that I haven't even been seen by the doctor and see what procedures I would need or like!!! Please don't Judge you never know what monetary situation somebody is in. read more

I had the absolute BEST experience with Dr. Apostolides. I am a 28 year old who recently had a breast reduction and lift with Dr. A and could not be happier. From my very first appointment, Dr. A made me feel comfortable. He is knowledgeable and answered any and every question that I had regarding my procedure, even late at night or early in the morning. He is responsive, meticulous, and knowledgeable about the most up-to-date techniques. I went into his office feeling insecure about my DD/DDD breasts and I write this 7 weeks post-op (a very happy B) and incredibly satisfied and grateful I chose him to perform this procedure. I do not have enough good things to say about him and his office staff. I had an absolutely flawless experience and am forever grateful for Dr. A. read more

I was introduced to Dr. Apostolides after being diagnosed with a breast cancer which ultimately led to a mastectomy. Dr. Apostolides was confident and skilled in addressing the situations that arose due to the cancer/breast removal. My breast area now looks and feels like I had hoped it would. Dr. Apostolides is sharp, perceptive and exceedingly skilled. I am a very satisfied patient and I am confident in recommending Dr. Apostolides and all his staff. read more

I had the best experience during my consultation and decided to move forward with a few things that I had wanted to do for quite some time. The surgery went smoothly and I LOVED how everything turned out- perfectly!! I feel great and everything looks very natural and just how I wanted. Dr. John is not only a skilled and great cosmetic surgeon but he's also friendly, caring and honest. He took the time to answer all my questions, concerns and made me feel comfortable throughout the whole process. The staff are also very sweet, competent and very responsive. Highly recommend Dr. John! read more

Going to Dr. Apostolides was by far the best decision I could have made. Having a deviated septum was not only painful for myself but it was extremely hard to breath. Dr. A completely fixed the deviated septum and also reconstructed my nose to get rid of the things I didn't like. I would email him pictures of what I liked and he made it look exactly the way I wanted it. The staffing at his office makes you feel so welcome and comfortable. I highly recommend to go to Dr. Apostolides, you wont regret it. read more

I never thought about getting fillers or Botox until about 3 months ago. I'm in my mid thirties and started noticing my face sagging a bit, deep smile lines, tired eyes (even if I slept for 12 hours the night before), and shadows where shadows shouldn't be. I kind of know one of the staff members, we aren't close, but we'd met a few times before and we're FB friends. Anyways, I knew they worked at this establishment and being a bit nervous about the whole thing, I wanted a little bit of comfort in knowing someone at this office. My appointment was made with Nurse Ruth. I had my consult and she gave me her professional opinion, I decided right then and there to pull the trigger and get some filler injections and some Botox. While I can't speak of the Botox just yet, (this only happened yesterday, mind you), I can say that I AM IN LOVE with the filler results in my cheeks and under my eyes. The deep groves and shadows that were there yesterday morning are gone this morning. It's like 10+ years had been taken off of my face. Nurse Ruth is so amazing and so gentle. You can tell she really cares about her patients and she really loves what she does. She answers all of your questions and makes you feel extremely comfortable about everything. I can't wait to see what the Botox will do for me in the next few days. I'm going next week to get my "after" pictures done. I'm excited to see the entire transformation. Also, BONUS! I actually checked their prices against a few other places in town and the package that this place was offering for the items I was getting done is actually a GREAT deal. I'm so happy I did this for me and I will definitely be back to see Nurse Ruth. read more

I have struggled with my large breast for years with weekly migraines and arthritis in my spine. I recently got a breast reduction with Dr. A and it's the best decision I have ever made. He is knowledgeable, friendly and talented and his bedside manner made me feel at ease about this life changing decision. I am now a happy C cup and cannot thank Dr. A and his staff enough for giving me my life back. read more

I had a mommy makeover (abdominoplasty, breast lift and implants) and couldn't be happier with the results! I wanted a natural looking C cup and that's exactly what I got. Dr A is professional and his pricing is competitive. read more

Had Botox and Juvederm injections by Ruth Ann. Was not happy at all with the results. Made my eyes when I smiled look horrendous. I returned to have the doctor assess it and he attempted to fix it with more Botox, which distorted my smile. I will not be back. read more

Dr. Apostolides was such a blessing in my life. I was referred to Dr. A for breast reconstruction after second occurrence of breast cancer. Since this was not my first breast surgery I have a good sense of the level of skill needed to complete my surgery. The results are nothing less than amazing! I found Dr. A. to be warm, professional, and extremely skilled at Plastic Surgery. I also appreciate his promptness and the excellent staff. I would give him 10 stars if it were possible. I recommend him 100% read more

I would give more stars if allowed. To start, this place is decorated beautifully. I have never had injections to my lips and I was nervous. Ruth is such a gret nurse.She is so gentle and made me feel more relaxed. I usually bruise alot. I left with no bruises. I am extremely happy with the results, the price and the customer service. read more

Hands down one of the best experiences I have ever had. At my consultation, Dr. Apostolides made me feel so comfortable and took the time to explain everything about my procedure. I couldn't be happier with my results and would absolutely go back for any future procedures. Dr. Apostolides was very supportive, caring and took the time to follow up with me afterwards. I would recommend anyone to Dr. A. His skill and honest nature make him, hands down, one of the best! read more

Cutting edge and excellent for serious medical conditions not just vanity inspired cosmetic treatments. If you want to have an excellent, natural and near perfect as before cosmetic outcome go see Dr. Apostolides. read more

Dr A. Is AMAZING!!! I elected to have a double mastectomy which was a terrifying decision and process. When my husband and I began looking for and interviewing doctors we went to doctors based off my pcp recommendations. Simply said it was a terrible process and I left several doctor's offices in tears and beyond unsettled. However, we were So SO Lucky when we were recommended to Dr A. When I first spoke with Vanessa to schedule my consult, I immediately started to feel more at ease than I had before and then upon entering his office and meeting his staff the experience completely turned around from everything we had before with other doctors. Everyone was so friendly kind and comforting and upon meeting Dr A it got just that much better. He listened and was so warm and understanding about the emotions we were going through and about how scary this decision was. He answered all of our questions and gave his recommendations and insights. I have never felt more at ease than when I left the consultation. We moved forward with the surgery and he did a tremendous job and was great during all of our follow up visits. I don't know what I would have done if we had not found Dr A. My husband and I have since moved to Dallas and I still will fly back to see him for any follow up I need because I would never go to anyone else. I recommend Dr A to everyone and just know you will be in the best care with a doctor that truly cares about and listens to his patients!!! read more

I can't begin to describe the quality of service of Dr. Apostolides and his staff at DEFY. They are very caring and sincere. Dr. "A" performed my surgery with regular follow ups to see how the area was healing and how I was feeling over 8 months. The atmosphere of the office is very warm and relaxing (I had been to other doctor offices that were very cold and stark). I would highly recommend getting a consultation if you are considering cosmetic surgery. read more

I got a total mommy makeover Nov 2014. I am 41 and a mother of five! Go here! They are all friendly and kind and patient! Very inviting non intimidating lobby and patient exam rooms! This doctor is warm and comfortable to be around! He is a 100% perfectionist! He either answers your calls or calls you right back! He is calm cool and collective at all times! I have recommended him to my closest friends! Just at the 6 month mark and so happy! Spot on process from beginning to end! Thanks a million! Stephanie read more

I recommend Dr. A to everyone I know. I had consultations for a breast augmentation with two other doctors before I met Dr. A and upon walking through the door, I knew he'd be the one I chose. From the start we were both on the same page as far as my goals for the surgery. He was so nice and put me at ease about the procedure and his staff is just wonderful. I will go back to Defy PRS for any and all other cosmetic procedures I receive throughout my life, even if I don't live in San Diego in the future. Highly recommend Dr. A! read more

Dr. Apostolides is a splendid and skilled cosmetic surgeon, but he's so much more. His manner is friendly, sensitive, respectful, and nonjudgmental. I was inquiring about a breast reduction and was referred to him by a friend who is a nurse for another cosmetic surgeon. After my examination, Dr. Apostolides said he believed I qualified for insurance coverage. He was right. With my insurance assisting me with the breast reduction, I added a tummy tuck to my surgical procedure. During surgery, Dr. Apostolides discovered I had three hernias in my belly, all caused by an earlier colon resection. I'm adding this because he repaired all three hernias, saving me from additional invasive surgeries. Dr. Apostolides monitored my recovery carefully. The worst part was the hernia repair. The tummy tuck and breast reduction were fairly easy, and the results are amazing! Looking back on the entire event, from the first consultation to six months post op, I can tell you it was one of the best decisions of my life, including choosing the best physician. Finally, he has a lovely family and is a devoted family man. I think that also speaks to his character. read more

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 at only 34 years old. I had a nipple sparing mastectomy on my left breast; my right breast was untouched. At the time of the mastectomy I immediately began the reconstruction procedure and had a tissue expander implanted for a few months. I had my first reconstruction a few months later by a plastic surgeon who I completely adored and fully trusted. The reconstruction went very well. It was performed with a saline implant and AlloDerm. In approximately 6 months, I began to have some hardening, rippling and discomfort, so I had another reconstruction. This time along with the saline implant and AlloDerm, he also harvested some fat via liposuction and injected that around the area to "fill it out" a little. This surgery, again went well. The next year, I got pregnant, had a baby, and breast fed (right breast) for nearly a year. By the end of that year, my breasts were horribly asymmetrical. The implant had again rippled, hardened, most of the fat was absorbed and it clearly at least 2 inches higher than my natural breast. I then underwent a third reconstruction. The same surgeon performed the same surgery as the second reconstruction. Again, results were good right after surgery. I quickly had another pregnancy, birth, and breast-fed for approximately another year. For most of this time I was in a lot of pain due to the reconstruction. An immense amount of scar tissue had developed, encapsulated my implant and attached itself to the muscle. Every time I used that muscle, the implant would move and pull, causing pain. I made another appointment for a consultation with the same surgeon, but this time wanted to discuss the possibility of a DIEP Flap reconstruction instead of using another implant. He was not comfortable performing the DIEP Flap on me and did not offer any other suggestions of what we could possibly do different this time. He instead referred me to Dr. Apostolides. I have to admit that I was nervous to meet with a new surgeon because I had built a solid relationship with my original surgeon over the past 6 years and fully trusted him. I was very pleasantly surprised and impressed with Dr. Apostolides office from the moment I walked in. His office is beautiful, comfortable, and the ladies in the front were so pleasant and welcoming. Once I met with Dr. Apostolides and explained my journey, I immediately felt understood me. He was responsive to my request to try something different this time and not keep repeating the same surgery a fourth time. We discussed a multitude of options available, most of which, I had never heard about and was certainly not offered the options previously. He went into detail explaining the biology the breast/pectoral muscle and quickly identified why I was having pain. His recommendations addressed the pain I was in, which was my primary concern. But, Dr. Apostolides was also sensitive and understanding of my desire to have nice looking, symmetrical breasts. He suggested that my best option was a two-part approach. The first surgery, I first had my left breast completely "cleaned out" from scar tissue etc and a silicone implant lined with Strattice placed on top of the muscle rather than underneath. He explained that I was going to have a less likely chance of rippling with silicone vs. saline and that by placing the implant on top of the muscle, that would alleviate the movement of the implant with the flexing of the muscle and ultimately stop the pain. I had never been told any of those facts before. I also had a breast lift on the right for a more symmetrical look. Approximately 4 months later I had full body liposuction and the harvested fat was used to add volume to my reconstructed breast as well as a BBL. I also had a tummy tuck to remove loose skin due to pregnancies. I am almost 6 months out now, and couldn't be happier with my results. My breast has retained the shape with no rippling, hardening and most importantly, no pain. I am loving, for the first time since undergoing a mastectomy, the way my breasts look. Not to mention all of the other wonderful improvements the lipo and tummy tuck have done for my overall appearance. I would highly recommend Dr. Apostolides to anyone I know considering cosmetic surgery. He really listens and cares about giving you the best care. Having cancer and a mastectomy at an early age is really trying on your spirit. Dr. Apostolides has made an enormous impact on my life and has really given me a sense of normalcy again. I cannot thank him and his entire staff for the love and care that they've shown me! read more

One year ago, I began researching the idea of having a breast reduction after many many years of being overwhelmed with large breasts. After five consultations with other board certified plastic surgeons in the San Diego area (those that accepted my health insurance), I was convinced I had found my doctor when I met Dr. Apostolides. He was professional, personable, respectful and reassured me he could deliver the esthetic I yearned for. I felt sure I qualified for insurance coverage for most of the costs and Dr. A. was able to help me breakdown and find the answers to what the estimated costs might be (ie. surgery, OR, anesthesia, tissue pathology, etc.). My surgery and recovering went extremely well, and I am overwhelmingly pleased with the results. Dr. Apostolides is a true artist who performs meticulous and beautiful work. I absolutely would recommend him. Please don't wait to get this procedure. For me, it has been life changing. You are in great hands. read more