Meet Breast Surgical Oncologist Dr. Mary L. Gemignani

Why It Matters

Her patient‑first, team‑based approach can boost outcomes and satisfaction, influencing how hospitals nationwide manage breast cancer surgery.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Gemignani leads NYU Langone's breast surgery service.
• Emphasizes personalized surgical plans based on individual cancer profiles.
• Prioritizes patient education on procedure steps and recovery.
• Values active listening to address patient concerns and choices.
• Integrates multidisciplinary team for comprehensive breast cancer care.

Summary

The video introduces Dr. Mary L. Gemignani, chief of the breast surgery service at NYU Langone Health, who specializes in treating breast cancer patients through surgical intervention.

She stresses a personalized approach, tailoring operative techniques to each tumor’s biology while walking patients through every step—from pre‑operative planning and anesthesia to post‑operative recovery—so they know exactly what to expect.

Gemignani highlights the importance of listening, noting, “It’s important to not only provide information, but also listen to patients’ questions,” and describes how NYU Langone integrates surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists and support staff into a unified treatment plan.

By combining detailed education, empathetic communication and multidisciplinary coordination, her model aims to improve surgical outcomes, reduce anxiety, and set a benchmark for patient‑centered breast cancer care across the industry.

Original Description

Mary L. Gemignani, MD, MPH is a breast surgical oncologist and Chief of the Breast Surgery Service at NYU Langone Health. She cares for people with breast cancer and those at increased genetic or familial risk for developing the disease.

Dr. Gemignani was drawn to women’s health and cancer care early in her medical training. She believes that treating breast cancer involves more than surgery alone. She focuses on guiding patients through complex decisions with clear information, careful listening, and steady support. Her goal is to help each person feel informed, heard, and confident in the care plan they choose.

Expertise

Dr. Gemignani treats conditions including

• Breast cancer at all stages

• Hereditary breast cancer, including BRCA-related risk

• Elevated breast cancer risk due to family history

• Benign breast conditions requiring surgical evaluation

• Risk-reducing mastectomy and other preventive surgical options

Dr. Gemignani uses advanced surgical techniques designed to treat cancer effectively while also considering physical recovery and appearance after surgery. When appropriate, she offers minimally invasive and breast-conserving procedures. She also performs mastectomy and risk-reducing surgery for patients with inherited cancer risk. Surgical recommendations are always tailored to the individual, based on their diagnosis, overall health, and personal priorities.

Care is delivered through a multidisciplinary team. Dr. Gemignani works closely with specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, genetics, and supportive care to develop comprehensive treatment plans. She is also involved in research focused on patient-reported outcomes and quality of life, helping improve the care experience during and after treatment.

Learn more about Dr. Gemignani: https://nyulangone.org/doctors/1912981515/mary-l-gemignani