Ventura, CA - The latest advances in breast reconstruction will be the focus during a free seminar that the Community Memorial Health System is holding on Tuesday, July 14.

Michael Pickart, M.D., a local plastic surgeon, will lead the seminar that will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the eighth-floor Nichols Auditorium at Community Memorial Hospital, located at 147 Brent St. in Ventura.

Breast reconstruction is a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for a woman who has lost a breast due to cancer or other conditions, and Dr. Pickart will discuss surgical techniques available, including prosthetic implants (saline/salt water or silicone gel), abdominal/belly tissue and back tissue. Dr. Pickart also will explain how the creation of a new breast can dramatically improve self-image, self-confidence and quality of life.

Dr. Pickart, who has a private practice in Ventura and is on staff at Community Memorial Hospital, also is a clinical assistant professor of plastic surgery at Loma Linda University. He received his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons as well as a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Admission is free, but space is limited, so reservations are suggested. Call 805/652-5436, or visit www.cmhshealth.org/rsvp.