Carlie K. Thompson, MD

Dr. Carlie K. Thompson, MD, is a board-certified and fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist based in Burbank, California. Her practice is centered at the Center for Breast Care, located at 191 South Buena Vista Street, Suite 415. As an Assistant Professor of Surgery affiliated with UCLA Health and Providence, Dr. Thompson brings a multidisciplinary and compassionate approach to the management of breast health, combining clinical excellence with a deep commitment to patient care.

Dr. Thompson specializes in breast cancer surgery, offering advanced techniques that prioritize both oncologic safety and aesthetic outcomes. Her expertise includes nipple-sparing mastectomy, a procedure that preserves the nipple and areola while removing breast tissue affected by cancer. This technique is particularly beneficial for eligible patients seeking a more natural post-surgical appearance and is often combined with reconstructive options.

In addition to cancer treatment, Dr. Thompson provides care for benign breast diseases, such as fibroadenomas, cysts, and mastitis. Her approach involves thorough evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal breast health. She also works closely with women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer, offering preventive strategies and regular screenings to support early detection and intervention.

One of the innovative procedures offered by Dr. Thompson is aesthetic flat closure, which involves the careful removal of breast tissue with attention to contour and symmetry, providing a smooth chest wall appearance for patients who choose not to undergo reconstruction. This technique reflects her commitment to respecting patient preferences and delivering outcomes that align with individual goals.

Dr. Thompson also performs targeted axillary dissection, a surgical method used to assess and remove lymph nodes affected by cancer while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues. This procedure helps reduce complications such as lymphedema and supports accurate staging of breast cancer.

Her clinical interests extend to breast cancer screening, where she advocates for evidence-based protocols tailored to each patient’s risk profile. She is actively involved in research related to ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), focusing on improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. Her work in neoadjuvant treatment—administering therapy before surgery—aims to shrink tumors and enhance surgical success, particularly in complex or advanced cases.

Dr. Thompson’s educational background includes a medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. She completed her general surgery training at Northwestern University and the University of California, San Francisco, earning multiple awards for teaching and compassion. Her fellowship in breast surgical oncology was completed at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Thompson is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Surgeons, the Society of Surgical Oncology, the American Society of Breast Surgeons, and the Association of Women Surgeons. She also contributes to the UCLA Department of Surgery’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee and the Quality Improvement Committee, reflecting her dedication to advancing healthcare standards and inclusivity.

Patients describe Dr. Thompson as a compassionate and attentive provider who takes time to understand their concerns and guide them through every step of their treatment journey. Her practice emphasizes clear communication, shared decision-making, and holistic support before, during, and after surgery.

With a focus on innovation, empathy, and excellence, Dr. Carlie K. Thompson continues to be a leading figure in breast surgical oncology in Southern California. Her practice offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals navigating breast health challenges, backed by cutting-edge techniques and a commitment to improving lives through thoughtful, personalized care.