Dolores Catania's Journey to Breast Augmentation
Some of us have anticipated this fall with excitement for the return of Succession, the rerelease of Taylor Swift’s Red album, and a Thanksgiving with vaccinated family members. But for the star of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, Dolores Catania, fall holds a different meaning: “It’s surgery season,” she remarks, stating that it’s the perfect time for any cosmetic improvements or alterations she has contemplated, as it follows the exposed summer months and precedes the busy holiday period.
In the past, Catania has taken advantage of “surgery season” for a facelift, a Brazilian butt lift, and a tummy tuck; this year, it was a breast augmentation, which she underwent on October 26. We had a chat with Catania to delve into the specifics of her recent procedure, ranging from how she selected her doctor and implants to why she believes it’s crucial to openly discuss plastic surgery.
Ruli: What was your prior experience with breast augmentation?
Dolores Catania: When I was young, I was curvaceous, with large breasts and a prominent rear. However, as I aged, after having children and losing some weight, my breasts deflated. I felt the need to have them enhanced, and it became part of my post-divorce transformation. I had my breasts and liposuction done. Around six or seven years ago, after the revenge body, I underwent a breast revision.
Ruli: Why did you decide to have your breasts done for the third time now?
DC: I wasn't satisfied with how they felt. They appeared slightly uneven, and I wasn't fond of the implants I had. I have a thyroid problem, causing significant weight fluctuations, and I disliked how my breast implants hung as my weight changed. Of course, no one's body is perfectly symmetrical, but the difference was quite noticeable, and I simply wanted them done correctly.
I was constantly observing other women's breasts to determine which ones I preferred, and I truly thought that [RHONJ castmate] Teresa Guidice's were the best. My breasts weren't a top priority until I saw how great hers looked and realized the potential improvement I could achieve. It really motivated me because I knew I could obtain a better outcome with different implants and that I needed to find the right surgeon for the task. Once I recovered from my tummy tuck and other procedures, I decided it was time for my next surgery.
Ruli: What were the subsequent steps leading to this surgery?
DC: I asked Teresa which implants she got, and she mentioned they were Sientra breast implants, so I began researching them. I liked their shape, the guarantee provided, and the various options available, which made me highly confident in the product. After all, when inserting something into your body, you'd better be well-informed – and I like to think I'm doing the research for everyone else.
The doctor Teresa utilized, Dr. Aviva Preminger, is truly exceptional. She's a superstar surgeon, and her qualifications are outstanding. She's board-certified and a graduate of Harvard. Moreover, her office staff consists entirely of women – they are extremely efficient and patient with me. On the morning of my surgery, I was just as confident as when I initially signed the agreement to go there.
Ruli: What were your objectives entering the breast augmentation procedure?
DC: My breasts were positioned more to the side than the front and were uneven, so I desired a better shape and perkier appearance. I didn't alter the size – only the shape and position to make them more symmetrical. Dr. Preminger also worked through the existing scars I had. I never wanted the lift scars, but I had them due to the necessity of the lift. There's truly no avoiding a lift. I had one previously, and I had another now to raise them slightly higher.
Ruli: Your family wasn't enthusiastic about your cosmetic surgeries in the past. How did they respond this time?
DC: Everyone has given up scolding me. I don't mind if they're angry with me, but I feel bad when they worry about me. It's my choice, so I don't want people to be concerned, and I understand that whenever they disapproved, it was because they were worried about me. The reality is, I feel guilty even when people assist me upon my return home. I dislike it! Like, I requested this, so why should they have to help me?
Undergoing surgery is no easy matter, and there are always risks involved. It's a considerable expense, and there's a possibility that it won't turn out as desired. I have many people depending on me in my life, so elective surgery is not something I undertake lightly. There's also the fear of potential complications, the recovery period, the pain, and – especially with revisions – the scar tissue involved. You truly need to consult an excellent surgeon who knows how to handle any obstacles that may arise, and I had absolute faith in Dr. Preminger.
Ruli: How has your recovery process been?
DC: My recovery has been relatively smooth. I didn't come home with drains, which was remarkable. The first three days are always the most challenging; after that, I started walking and took my first shower. But I received a lot of assistance. I had an incredible friend who picked me up and cared for me throughout the night. People came to help me with my dogs. Ensuring you have support when you return home from these surgeries is just as vital as choosing the right doctor. I have two dogs that I need to walk, and I had to consider that. I also had to think about what would occur if, during the night, I experienced any complications and ensure the right person would be there for me.
Ruli: It's still early, but how do you feel about the results?
DC: There are few feelings better than emerging from surgery and realizing that you chose the best doctor, everything went well, you love your appearance, and all your efforts were worthwhile. That's precisely how I felt and how I continue to feel.
Ruli: You've always been outspoken about the cosmetic procedures you've undergone. Why do you think it's so important to have an open conversation about undergoing such treatments?
DC: The truth is, all my enhancements appear natural. So, if I didn't mention them, you wouldn't be aware. You wouldn't know I had a facelift or a butt lift. I merely enhance certain aspects and avoid doctors who overdo it. Everyone I consult aims for a natural look, and they are all board-certified. It's important for me to inform people when I find the right doctors because people will undergo surgery regardless, whether they admit it or not. I've done the research, I have a surgical background, and I know what to look for in a doctor. So if you're going to do it, you should do it safely because there are numerous risks. I want people to be aware of this.
And you shouldn't feel embarrassed about having plastic surgery or be concerned about what others might think of you. Don't let anyone else dictate what you do with your own body. If you look in the mirror and see something that bothers you and makes you unhappy every day and there's a way to [change that], you should take action.
