How to Choose the Right Breast Surgeon: Questions to Ask and Red Flags to Avoid

Breast surgery is a personal, life-changing decision — and choosing the right surgeon is just as important as selecting the procedure itself. Whether you’re considering breast augmentation, a lift, reduction, or reconstruction, the skill and integrity of your surgeon can significantly influence your outcome, confidence, and safety.

In New York City, where options are plentiful, knowing what to look for — and what to avoid — can help you make a confident, informed decision. Dr. Aviva Preminger is a board-certified plastic surgeon on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, known for her surgical artistry, honest approach, and individualized care. Here’s what you should know before choosing your breast surgeon.

Credentials Speak Loudly

When it comes to surgery, credentials are non-negotiable. The first thing to verify is board certification. Your surgeon should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which ensures that they have completed rigorous training and passed comprehensive examinations in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Dr. Aviva Preminger graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and earned her medical degree from Cornell University Medical College. She completed her plastic surgery training at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, a combined program of Columbia and Cornell — some of the most respected institutions in the country. Her expertise in breast surgery is backed by years of hands-on experience and a refined aesthetic eye.

Questions You Should Always Ask

You’re not being difficult — you’re being smart. During your consultation, come prepared with questions that uncover both technical skill and personal philosophy. Here are five questions every patient should ask:

• How often do you perform this procedure? Experience breeds consistency. Look for a surgeon who specializes in breast surgery, not someone who dabbles.
• Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients? A skilled surgeon should proudly show their work. Look for symmetry, proportion, and natural-looking results.
• What are the risks and how do you manage complications? No surgery is risk-free. You want a surgeon who is transparent and prepared.
• Where will my surgery be performed? Accredited surgical facilities are a must. Ask if the surgeon has hospital privileges as a safety backup.
• What is your approach to achieving natural results? A good surgeon will personalize their techniques to complement your body type and lifestyle.

Dr. Preminger approaches every consultation as a collaborative conversation. Her patients appreciate her honesty, clarity, and calm demeanor. There is never pressure — only information and support.

Red Flags That Should Make You Think Twice

Sometimes, what a surgeon doesn’t say is just as important as what they do. Be cautious of the following warning signs:

• They gloss over risks or recovery time
  A reputable surgeon will give you the full picture, including downtime, discomfort, and what to realistically expect.
• They can’t show real patient results
  If there are no before-and-after photos or the images seem too perfect, proceed with caution.
• They use high-pressure tactics or upsell other procedures
  Ethical plastic surgeons won’t push unnecessary treatments or rush your decision-making.
• They don’t ask about your medical history
  Safety starts with understanding your overall health. If your consultation feels like a sales pitch instead of a health evaluation, walk away.
• Their credentials are unclear
  If you can’t easily confirm board certification or hospital affiliations, that’s a dealbreaker.

What Makes Dr. Preminger the Right Choice?

Patients across New York trust Dr. Aviva Preminger for a reason. She’s not only board-certified and Ivy League trained — she is a compassionate listener who values safety and individuality above all else. She understands that every woman’s body and goals are unique. Whether you’re seeking a subtle enhancement or reconstructive surgery after cancer, she brings both technical excellence and personal empathy to every case.

Her Manhattan office offers a discreet, comfortable setting with a highly trained staff who guide patients through each step of the process. Consultations are thorough, never rushed. Dr. Preminger takes time to explain options, outline expectations, and make sure every question is answered.

You Deserve the Best — Don’t Settle

Breast surgery is about more than how you look — it’s about how you feel in your body. Choosing the right surgeon means partnering with someone who respects your goals, honors your safety, and delivers natural, beautiful results.

If you’re searching for a breast surgeon in New York who combines world-class training with individualized care, Dr. Aviva Preminger is the name to know.

Ready to feel empowered about your breast surgery decision? Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Preminger today. Discover the difference a skilled, compassionate surgeon can make.