Frequently Asked Questions – Dr. M. Zakir Sabry / Murray Hill Plastic Surgery
Choosing plastic surgery is personal, and it helps to have clear answers before deciding what comes next. Murray Hill Plastic Surgery in New York City offers cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, and body with Dr. M. Zakir Sabry, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, call (212) 737-1308 or send us a message.
Main FAQs
Where is Murray Hill Plastic Surgery located?
Murray Hill Plastic Surgery is located at 111 E 31st St in New York, NY 10016. Patients visit from Manhattan, New York City, and beyond for cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
Who is Dr. M. Zakir Sabry?
Dr. Sabry is a fellowship-trained, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in NYC. His background includes full general surgery training, plastic surgery training, and craniofacial surgery fellowship training.
What procedures does Dr. Sabry specialize in?
Dr. Sabry specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, breast, and body. These include body contouring after weight loss, gynecomastia surgery, septoplasty and septorhinoplasty, breast implant removal, breast reduction, tummy tuck, neck lift, and rhinoplasty.
Do you accept insurance?
Some medically necessary procedures may qualify for insurance coverage depending on the diagnosis, documentation, and insurance policy. Cosmetic portions of treatment are generally self-pay.
How do I schedule a consultation with Dr. Sabry?
You can schedule a consultation by calling Murray Hill Plastic Surgery at (212) 737-1308 or send us a message. A consultation is the best time to review your goals, anatomy, treatment options, and recovery expectations.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Patients traveling from outside New York City can ask about the best consultation format for their needs. The office can help guide appointment planning based on where you are located and what procedure you are considering.
What financing options are available?
Financing options are available for patients who want to make treatment costs more manageable. Payment planning can be reviewed once your treatment recommendations and timing are clear.
What areas do you serve?
Murray Hill Plastic Surgery serves patients in Manhattan, New York City, and surrounding areas. Patients also travel from outside the region for Dr. Sabry’s cosmetic and reconstructive surgical care.
What should I expect during my first consultation?
Your first consultation should include a direct discussion of your concerns, medical history, anatomy, and realistic treatment options. Dr. Sabry’s approach is thoughtful and conservative, so the goal is to recommend only what genuinely fits your needs.
What makes Murray Hill Plastic Surgery different?
Dr. Sabry emphasizes patient-first care, conservative surgical judgment, natural-looking results, and direct surgeon involvement throughout the process. Patients meet with Dr. Sabry for consultation and continue to receive attentive follow-up throughout recovery.
Body Contouring After Weight Loss FAQs
What is body contouring after weight loss?
Body contouring after weight loss is a group of surgical procedures designed to remove loose, hanging skin and reshape areas affected by significant weight loss. It may address the abdomen, arms, thighs, breasts, chest, lower back, flanks, buttocks, face, or neck. The goal is not to lose more weight, but to help your body better reflect the transformation you have already achieved.
Who is a good candidate for body contouring after weight loss?
A good candidate is usually someone who has reached a stable weight and is bothered by excess skin, rubbing, hygiene issues, rashes, mobility limits, or clothing fit problems. Patients often consider these procedures after bariatric surgery or major weight loss through lifestyle changes. Candidacy depends on your health, weight stability, skin quality, and the number of areas that need treatment.
Do I need to be at my final goal weight before post-weight-loss surgery?
Yes, weight stability is important before surgery. If your weight is still changing significantly, waiting can help protect the outcome and reduce the chance of needing additional procedures later. Patients typically do best when they have maintained a realistic, healthy weight for several months and are ready to focus on contour rather than continued weight loss.
What procedures can be included in post-weight-loss body contouring?
A post-weight-loss plan may include panniculectomy, tummy tuck, belt lipectomy, arm lift, breast lift, thigh lift, liposuction, facelift, or neck lift. The right combination depends on where the skin is loose and how much correction can be done safely. Some patients need one focused procedure, while others benefit from a staged plan that treats multiple areas over time.
Can multiple body contouring procedures be done together?
Sometimes. Combination surgery can be appropriate for healthy patients when the total operating time, recovery demands, and safety considerations are reasonable. In other cases, staging procedures can be safer and allow for each area to heal more predictably. Dr. Sabry helps patients prioritize which areas matter most and whether combining or staging makes more sense.
Will body contouring after weight loss leave scars?
Yes, scars are part of post-weight-loss body contouring because skin must be removed. Incisions are planned as carefully as possible, often in areas that can be hidden by clothing or natural contours. Scars typically fade over time, but they do not disappear completely. Most patients feel the tradeoff is worthwhile when loose skin has been affecting comfort, mobility, or confidence.
What is recovery like after body contouring after weight loss?
Recovery varies depending on how many areas are treated and how extensive the surgery is. Swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary discomfort are expected, with light activity returning gradually. Larger procedures require more planning, support at home, and close follow-up. Dr. Sabry’s team monitors healing and helps patients advance activity safely over time.
How can I prepare for body contouring after weight loss?
Preparation helps make post-weight-loss surgery safer and more manageable. Helpful steps include:
- Reaching a stable, maintainable weight before surgery
- Identifying which areas affect comfort or confidence most
- Planning help at home during early recovery
- Preparing for scars and a gradual healing process
- Staying realistic about whether surgery should be staged
Body contouring after weight loss works best when the plan is built around safety, function, and proportion. Good preparation makes it easier to protect your results and enjoy the progress you have worked hard to achieve.
Gynecomastia FAQs
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the abnormal enlargement of male breast tissue. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may involve glandular tissue, fat, loose skin, or a combination of these factors. Men often seek treatment when the chest feels out of proportion, looks fuller than expected, or causes self-consciousness in fitted shirts, swimwear, or athletic clothing.
Why does gynecomastia happen?
Gynecomastia can be related to genetics, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or certain medications. Some men develop it during puberty, while others notice changes later in life. Lifestyle changes may help when fat is the main issue, but persistent glandular tissue often does not improve enough without surgery.
Who is a good candidate for gynecomastia surgery?
A good candidate is usually a healthy man who is bothered by enlarged breast tissue and wants a flatter, more masculine-looking chest. The best candidates have stable weight, realistic expectations, and a clear understanding of whether the issue is fat, glandular tissue, loose skin, or all three. Dr. Sabry evaluates the chest carefully before recommending treatment.
Is surgery the only treatment for gynecomastia?
Not always. If gynecomastia is related to medication, hormones, weight gain, or another medical concern, those issues may need to be addressed first. However, more persistent or advanced gynecomastia often requires surgery because glandular tissue usually does not disappear with exercise alone. The right plan depends on the cause, severity, and tissue type.
Does insurance cover gynecomastia surgery?
Insurance may cover gynecomastia surgery in selected cases when there is a medical reason or major weight-loss-related concern. Coverage depends on the insurance policy, documentation, and pre-authorization requirements. Cosmetic chest contouring is usually self-pay. Patients should verify benefits before surgery and understand what portion, if any, may qualify.
How is male breast reduction performed?
Male breast reduction removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes loose skin to create a flatter and more balanced chest contour. Liposuction may be used when fat is a major part of the concern, while direct tissue removal may be needed for dense glandular tissue. Dr. Sabry customizes the plan based on chest anatomy and skin quality.
What is recovery like after gynecomastia surgery?
Recovery usually includes swelling, bruising, soreness, and compression garment use while the chest heals. Most patients return to light activities relatively soon, but strenuous exercise and chest workouts need to wait until cleared. Final contour takes time as swelling improves and tissues settle. Consistent aftercare helps support a smoother, more natural-looking chest.
How can I prepare for gynecomastia surgery?
Preparation helps create a smoother surgery and recovery experience. Helpful steps include:
- Reaching a stable weight before surgery
- Identifying whether the concern feels like fat, firm tissue, or loose skin
- Reviewing medications or health factors that may contribute
- Planning time away from chest workouts and heavy lifting
- Preparing for compression and gradual swelling improvement
Gynecomastia surgery is most effective when the treatment plan addresses the actual tissue causing the fullness. Clear expectations help patients feel more confident about both the recovery and the final contour.
Septoplasty/Septorhinoplasty FAQs
What is septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects a deviated septum, which is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the nasal passages. When the septum is crooked, blocked, or displaced, it can restrict airflow and contribute to congestion, breathing difficulty, nosebleeds, sinus issues, or sleep problems. Septoplasty focuses on improving nasal function rather than changing the outside appearance of the nose.
What is septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty combines septoplasty with rhinoplasty in one procedure. It improves internal nasal structure for better breathing while also reshaping the outside of the nose when cosmetic refinement is desired. This can be helpful for patients who want both functional correction and better facial balance without undergoing separate surgeries.
Who is a good candidate for septoplasty or septorhinoplasty?
A good candidate may have chronic nasal obstruction, a deviated septum, breathing difficulty, or nasal shape concerns that affect both function and appearance. Some patients are mostly focused on airflow, while others want their nose to look more balanced at the same time. Dr. Sabry evaluates breathing, nasal anatomy, facial proportions, and goals before recommending the best approach.
Is septoplasty the same as rhinoplasty?
No. Septoplasty corrects the internal septum to improve airflow, while rhinoplasty reshapes the visible nose. Septorhinoplasty combines both corrections when functional and cosmetic concerns overlap. This distinction matters because insurance may treat the functional portion differently from cosmetic changes to the nose.
Does insurance cover septoplasty or septorhinoplasty?
Functional nasal surgery may be covered when it is medically necessary to improve breathing or correct structural issues. Cosmetic changes to the external nose are usually elective and not covered. Coverage depends on documentation, diagnosis, the insurance policy, and any pre-authorization requirements. Patients should review benefits before surgery.
What happens on septoplasty or septorhinoplasty surgery day?
Septoplasty and septorhinoplasty are typically performed in the on-site, QUAD-A-accredited operating room. Most procedures are performed under general anesthesia. Patients meet with anesthesia staff, review final details, recover under supervision, and go home the same day with an escort. Larger or more complex cases may require more detailed recovery planning.
What is recovery like after septoplasty or septorhinoplasty?
Recovery may include swelling, congestion, bruising, temporary nasal blockage, and activity restrictions. Breathing may feel improved gradually as swelling resolves. Cosmetic refinement, especially after septorhinoplasty, continues to evolve over time. Patients should avoid rushing recovery, because nasal tissues need time to heal internally and externally.
How can I prepare for septoplasty or septorhinoplasty?
Preparation helps clarify both breathing and appearance goals. Helpful steps include:
- Noting which side feels blocked or whether both sides are affected
- Identifying sinus, nosebleed, sleep, or congestion symptoms
- Thinking about whether external nasal shape also bothers you
- Reviewing prior nasal trauma, allergies, or surgeries
- Asking which parts of treatment may be functional versus cosmetic
Nasal surgery works best when form and function are considered together. A careful plan can improve breathing while preserving or refining facial balance.
Breast Implant Removal FAQs
What is breast implant removal?
Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, removes one or both breast implants. In some cases, scar tissue around the implant, called the capsule, may also be removed or treated. The breasts may need reshaping after implants are removed, especially when the skin has stretched or the nipples sit lower than desired.
Why do patients consider breast implant removal?
Patients consider implant removal for many reasons, including capsular contracture, implant discomfort, implant integrity concerns, lifestyle changes, size preference changes, or a desire to feel more natural. Some women no longer want the maintenance or feel of implants. Others want relief from tightness, heaviness, or a result that no longer matches their body or goals.
Do I need a breast lift with implant removal?
A breast lift may be helpful if your breasts are likely to look flat, deflated, or low after your implants are removed. Implants can stretch the breast envelope over time and removing them reduces volume. A lift can raise the nipple position, reshape the breast, and improve contour. Some patients prefer removal alone, while others want a more refined explant result.
Can fat grafting be added after implant removal?
Yes, fat grafting may be considered when extra natural volume is desired after implants are removed. Fat can be transferred from another area of the body to soften contour and improve fullness. It does not recreate the same volume as implants, but it can help selected patients achieve a more natural and balanced result.
Does insurance cover breast implant removal?
Breast implant removal may be partly covered when there are medical reasons or concerns about implant integrity. Insurance does not typically cover a breast lift or implant replacement when those portions are cosmetic. Coverage depends on the insurance policy, documentation, and pre-authorization requirements. Patients should verify benefits before scheduling surgery.
What is the difference between implant removal and capsulectomy?
Implant removal takes out the implant itself. Capsulectomy removes some or all of the scar tissue capsule around the implant. Not every patient needs the same capsule approach. The decision depends on symptoms, capsule condition, implant integrity, safety, and the final breast shape goal.
What is recovery like after breast implant removal?
Recovery depends on whether removal is performed alone or combined with capsulectomy, lift, fat grafting, or implant exchange. Patients can expect swelling, soreness, activity restrictions, and gradual settling of the breast shape. Recovery is usually more involved when additional reshaping is performed. Final results take time as tissues adjust after implant removal.
How can I prepare for breast implant removal surgery?
Preparation helps make explant planning more organized and realistic. Helpful steps include:
- Clarifying whether you want removal alone, removal with lift, or downsizing
- Gathering implant records if available
- Thinking about whether capsule removal is part of your concern
- Preparing for a smaller breast size after surgery
- Planning recovery time away from lifting and strenuous activity
Breast implant removal is both a physical and personal decision. A clear plan helps patients choose the approach that best supports comfort, health, and long-term confidence.
Breast Reduction FAQs
What is breast reduction?
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, reduces breast weight and volume while lifting and reshaping the breasts for better balance. It can improve breast proportion and relieve symptoms caused by overly large breasts. Many patients pursue breast reduction because physical discomfort has begun to affect posture, activity, clothing, or quality of life.
Who is a good candidate for breast reduction?
You may be a good candidate if you experience neck pain, back pain, shoulder grooving, skin irritation, posture issues, activity limitations, breast asymmetry, or emotional discomfort related to large breasts. Patients should be healthy enough for surgery and realistic about scars, recovery, and the final shape. Dr. Sabry evaluates both physical symptoms and aesthetic goals during consultation.
Can breast reduction be covered by insurance?
Breast reduction may be covered when it is medically necessary to relieve physical symptoms. Insurance providers may consider symptoms such as chronic neck or back pain, shoulder grooves, rashes, and limitations in physical activity. Coverage depends on each policy’s requirements, documentation, and pre-authorization process. Cosmetic breast reduction is usually self-pay.
Will breast reduction also lift the breasts?
Yes. Breast reduction usually includes lifting and reshaping because excess tissue and skin are removed. The nipples are repositioned to create a more balanced breast shape. Patients often feel both lighter and more proportionate after surgery, with improved comfort and a more youthful contour.
How small can I go with breast reduction?
The final size depends on your anatomy, tissue supply, breast shape, nipple position, and safety. Dr. Sabry’s goal is to create lighter, more proportional breasts while preserving a natural shape. Some patients want a moderate reduction, while others need more significant relief from heavy breasts. The best size should support comfort and long-term balance.
What makes Dr. Sabry’s breast reduction technique different?
Dr. Sabry uses a precise sharp-dissection technique with local anesthetic infiltration to help minimize bleeding, reduce discomfort, and support smoother recovery. Most breast reductions take about two to three hours under general anesthesia. Dr. Sabry does not typically use drains for breast reduction, which can make recovery more comfortable for many patients.
What is recovery like after breast reduction?
Recovery usually includes swelling, soreness, tightness, and restrictions on lifting and exercise. Many patients feel physical relief early, but the breasts continue to settle and refine over time. Patients should avoid rushing activity, especially upper-body strain. Following recovery instructions helps protect incisions, shape, and long-term comfort.
How can I prepare for breast reduction surgery?
Preparation helps patients feel more confident and supported before surgery. Helpful steps include:
- Listing physical symptoms such as pain, rashes, or bra strap grooves
- Checking insurance requirements if coverage may apply
- Thinking about your ideal breast size and shape
- Planning time away from lifting, exercise, and strenuous activity
- Preparing comfortable front-opening clothing for recovery
Breast reduction can improve both comfort and proportion. Clear goals and practical planning help make the decision and recovery feel more manageable.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, improves abdominal shape by removing excess skin, tightening the abdominal wall, and creating a flatter, firmer midsection. It is often chosen after pregnancy, weight changes, or aging when diet and exercise cannot correct loose skin or muscle separation. The procedure can also improve overall waistline contour.
Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
A good candidate is usually someone at a stable weight who is bothered by loose abdominal skin, stretched tissue, stubborn fat, or weakened abdominal muscles. Patients should be healthy enough for surgery and prepared for real downtime. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, so timing matters if weight is still changing.
What are the different types of tummy tuck?
Tummy tuck options may include a regular tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck, fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, or high lateral tension abdominoplasty. A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen, while more extensive techniques address greater skin excess, flanks, lower back, or vertical looseness. The right approach depends on anatomy and goals.
Can a tummy tuck repair separated abdominal muscles?
Yes. A standard tummy tuck often repairs separated abdominal muscles while removing excess skin and fat. Muscle repair can help create a flatter and more supported abdominal contour. This is especially common after pregnancy or major weight changes when the abdominal wall has stretched beyond what exercise can correct.
Can liposuction be combined with a tummy tuck?
Yes. Liposuction may be combined with tummy tuck surgery to refine the abdomen, waist, and flanks. Liposuction removes stubborn fat, while the tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal wall. Combining both can improve contour when fat and skin laxity are present together.
Will a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
A tummy tuck can remove some stretch marks when they are located on the skin being removed, especially lower abdominal skin. Stretch marks outside that area may remain, but the abdomen can still look smoother and tighter. The main goal is improved contour, not complete stretch mark removal.
What is recovery like after a tummy tuck?
Recovery usually includes swelling, tightness, soreness, drainage care when needed, and restrictions on lifting, bending, and core activity. Patients need help during the first part of recovery, especially with childcare, household tasks, and transportation. Final abdominal contour improves gradually as swelling decreases and tissues settle.
How can I prepare for tummy tuck surgery?
Good preparation can make abdominoplasty recovery much easier. Helpful steps include:
- Reaching a stable weight before surgery
- Planning help with children, pets, meals, and errands
- Setting up a comfortable recovery area at home
- Avoiding heavy lifting and core strain during early healing
- Following all pre-op and post-op instructions carefully
A tummy tuck is most satisfying when patients understand the recovery commitment before surgery. Planning ahead helps protect the abdominal repair and supports the best possible result.
Neck Lift FAQs
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic procedure that improves the neck and jawline by addressing loose skin, muscle banding, excess fat, and poor definition under the chin. It can create a smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking neck contour. For many patients, the neck is one of the first areas to show visible aging.
Who is a good candidate for a neck lift?
A good candidate may be bothered by loose neck skin, a double chin, vertical bands, jowling, or a heavy-looking neckline. Some patients have tried creams, lasers, or threads but still want a longer-lasting change. Candidacy depends on skin laxity, muscle position, fat distribution, health, and recovery goals.
What neck lift techniques are available?
Neck lift techniques may include cervicoplasty, platysmaplasty, deep plane neck lift, liposuction, or a combination of approaches. Cervicoplasty removes excess skin, platysmaplasty tightens neck bands, and deeper techniques reposition deeper tissue layers. The right method depends on whether the main concern is skin, fat, muscle looseness, or all three.
Can a neck lift improve a double chin?
Yes, when the double chin is related to fat, loose skin, muscle laxity, or poor jawline definition. Liposuction may help when stubborn fat is the main concern, while skin and muscle tightening may be needed when laxity is present. Dr. Sabry evaluates the neck in layers to determine the most effective correction.
Can a neck lift be done without a facelift?
Yes. Some patients are mostly bothered by the neck and can benefit from a neck lift alone. Others need a facelift and neck lift together when the lower face, jowls, and neck all contribute to the concern. A combined approach can be more balanced when aging affects the face and neck together.
Will a neck lift look tight or pulled?
A well-planned neck lift should not look tight or unnatural. The goal is a cleaner, more defined neckline that remains in harmony with the face. Dr. Sabry customizes incision placement and tissue tightening so the result looks refreshed rather than overdone.
What is recovery like after a neck lift?
Recovery may include swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary activity restrictions. Patients should plan enough downtime before work events, travel, or major social plans. Most swelling improves gradually, and the neck contour continues to refine as tissues settle. Following instructions carefully helps protect incisions and final definition.
How can I prepare for neck lift surgery?
Preparation helps clarify what kind of neck correction you need. Helpful steps include:
- Identifying whether your main concern is skin, fat, banding, or jawline definition
- Looking at whether your lower face also bothers you
- Planning downtime away from work and major events
- Avoiding smoking and following medication instructions
- Preparing for gradual swelling improvement over time
A neck lift works best when the treatment plan matches the true cause of neck aging. Clear expectations help patients feel more confident before and after surgery.
Rhinoplasty FAQs
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also called a nose job, reshapes or repositions the nose to improve appearance, function, or both. It may address the bridge, tip, nostrils, width, asymmetry, or internal structures that affect breathing. Because the nose sits at the center of the face, rhinoplasty planning must consider facial balance as well as nasal structure.
Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
A good candidate is usually someone in good health who wants to improve nasal shape, balance, or breathing. Common concerns include a dorsal hump, a wide or asymmetrical nose, a drooping or bulbous tip, uneven nostrils, or a nose that feels out of proportion. Candidacy also depends on skin thickness, cartilage strength, bone structure, and airflow.
What is the difference between cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty?
Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on the visible shape and proportions of the nose. Functional rhinoplasty addresses internal structural problems, such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse, that restrict airflow. Many patients have both concerns, and the procedure can often address appearance and breathing in a single plan.
What is Dr. Sabry’s approach to rhinoplasty?
Dr. Sabry approaches rhinoplasty with careful attention to artistry, structure, breathing, and restraint. He evaluates facial proportions, symmetry, skin thickness, cartilage strength, bone anatomy, and airflow before creating a surgical plan. The goal is to improve the nose while preserving harmony with the rest of the face.
What is open rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty uses a small incision across the tissue between the nostrils to give the surgeon better access to nasal structures. This approach may be helpful when the nose requires detailed structural work, tip refinement, or more complex reshaping. The technique is chosen based on anatomy and what gives the most control for the desired result.
Will rhinoplasty make me look like a different person?
A well-planned rhinoplasty should not make you look like someone else. The goal is usually to create natural-looking refinement that still fits your face. Dr. Sabry emphasizes subtlety, proportion, and long-term structural support so the result looks balanced rather than obvious.
What is recovery like after rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty recovery usually includes swelling, congestion, bruising, and gradual refinement over time. Early swelling improves within weeks, but the nose continues to settle for months, especially at the tip. Patients should be patient with the final result and follow all activity, splint, and aftercare instructions closely.
How can I prepare for rhinoplasty surgery?
Rhinoplasty preparation is easiest when your priorities are clear. Helpful steps include:
- Identifying whether your main concern is shape, breathing, or both
- Thinking about bridge, tip, nostril, width, or symmetry concerns
- Bringing prior nasal surgery or trauma history if applicable
- Understanding that subtle changes can still make a major difference
- Asking what result is realistic for your skin, cartilage, and facial structure
Rhinoplasty is one of the most detail-sensitive facial procedures. A strong plan should improve the nose while keeping the rest of the face in natural balance.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Sabry
Plastic surgery works best when the plan is built around your anatomy, goals, health, and long-term comfort. Call (212) 737-1308 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sabry at Murray Hill Plastic Surgery in New York City or send us a message.