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Dr. Amy Colwell, MD

Dr. Amy Colwell, MD

Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery*
20+ years of experience

Dr. Amy Colwell, MD is a plastic surgeon in Boston, MA and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Colwell has extensive experience in Breast Surgery. She graduated from University of Minnesota Medical School in 2000. She is affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital.

3.5 Star Rating
Based on 34 reviews 3.5 Star Rating (34 reviews)

Practice

15 Parkman St Boston, MA 02114

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Hospital Highlight

Dr. Colwell is affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital Boston, a highly rated hospital.

At a Glance

  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Colwell specializes in the area of Plastic Surgery. See board certifications
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ See hospitals
  • Hospital Satisfaction
    Patients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. See hospitals
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Dr. Colwell's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Colwell

3.5
34 ratings, 21 with a written review
5 star
56%
56%
4 star
6%
6%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
9%
9%
1 star
29%
29%

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Sloppy esthetics
Results disappointing for skin sparing double mastectomy. Amy Colwell did the reconstruction part of my skin sparing double mastectomy. First off, tear shaped implants were not used. Second, the donor skin that was used on top of my implants was not wrapped properly, and are lumpy under my skin. Finally, the stitches that were done are absolutely horrific and Frankenstein in appearance. With another derm doc recently, I had to have a large skin surgery , and the stitches were not even visible after healing. How could Dr. Caldwel not do a similar type of stitch? I have horrible scarring along the stitches that she did under my implants. Additionally, after this incredibly emotional surgery, I never heard from the staff. No one followed up to see how I was doing. Also, prior to the surgery, it was incredibly hard to find images of what to expect. All very disappointing. Ask many questions before this necessary surgery.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Dec 10, 2023
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Not a patient advocate
After six months, I got in to see Dr. Colwell. I was there for a breast reduction and lift consult as I had lost 75 pounds and my breasts were hanging at my waist. She didn’t have much to say. I told her that I had osteoarthritis in my spine due to the weight of my breasts. She said that I would be a good candidate for the procedure. I was ready to make my next appointment to move forward and she seems surprised. I had to ask her to take the pictures so that we could show the insurance company how much weight I had lost, and that the reduction was necessary. A few weeks later her assistant called and told me that insurance did not approve surgery because they didn’t think it was warranted. I asked her to advocate for me as my weight loss doctor had and said she just needed to have the doctor call the insurance company and explain. The assistant refused. Terrible service. If this is the service before, I’d hate to see the after care. Looking elsewhere.
What went well
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
May 30, 2023
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I am forever grateful to Dr. Colwell and her team. They made this process seamless, and my results are amazing!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Sep 27, 2021
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I decided on a double mastectomy with nipple sparing surgery after chemotherapy. While I agree with some commenters that Dr. Colwell doesn't say much, I wasn't mentally able to do a lot of research or retain information for my consult anyways. If you are in a position to be ready for your consult, do your research and make a list of questions. She will explain everything in layman's terms. I almost didn't elect to have any reconstruction because I was so done with breast cancer. Personally, I decided to trust in a doctor that didn't need to sell herself or the results I would have. I found that reassuring. I had two surgeries. The first required tissue expanders, and the second surgery replaced them with implants. The initial surgery is a major surgery. My final "scarring" after both surgeries is almost exactly on the same line as the original surgery incision. I love the results. I look amazing. Dr. Colwell is a blessing.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jan 10, 2020
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I have been working with Dr. Colwell for two years during a breast reconstruction. From the beginning she has been dismissive, her office is unresponsive, they gave me advice which was a misrepresentation of my options, and the results are not satisfactory. I wish I'd chosen a different doctor and am now having complications. I will be switching providers but please, look for another provider and save yourself the emotional and physical pain and discomfort I've experienced!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
15 others found this helpful
Helpful
Dec 19, 2019
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Same experience almost exactly. Scheduled for revision and am hoping for things to be corrected fully. Staff was nice though
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
What could be improved
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
13 others found this helpful
Helpful
Dec 05, 2019
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I would not recommend Dr. Colwell to anyone. I went to her for reconstructive surgery. She completely botched it. I have contacted another reconstructive surgeon to see if he can fix her mess. I wish I could give her a zero. Her nurse practitioner is training herself on the job and caused me significant pain. Patient calls are not returned for days. If they need medical attention, they cannot get it. I now have a horizontal line across my chest caused by Dr. Colwell.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
12 others found this helpful
Helpful
MA – Jun 06, 2019
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I had a Breast reduction with Dr Colwell, I was very disappointed with the outcome. The nipples are different in appearance and asymmetric. I went back to see her to voice my concerns, she was dismissive and rude. I wish I could give her 0 stars! Do your research to avoid a similar experience.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
14 others found this helpful
Helpful
May 03, 2019
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I've been a patient of Dr. Colwell's for the past year, as I have been going through breast cancer treatment. Dr. Colwell performed my breast reconstruction, along with added procedures including a neck lift, labioplasty and fat grafting to the face. She is a true artist! Going through breast cancer has been challenging, however, glimmers of doing a few extras for myself, have given me additional confidence to face the world as a middle age woman - feeling a whole lot younger, thanks to Amy!!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mar 30, 2019
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She did my reconstruction after double mastectomy. Great doctor, amazing results.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 10, 2019
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Dr Amy Colwell was the plastic surgeon after my double mastectomy. Before surgery Dr. Colwell told me that there was an 80percent chance that she could install the implants at the same time. That did not happen and she installed the space keepers. In a second surgery later on she installed the permanent implants. Despite the two steps the final result is less that pleasing and my nipples are low and not parallel. Had bad experience with the impersonal care the day of 2nd surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
M. Jones in MI – Jan 08, 2019
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I was referred to Doctor Colwell, and I couldn't have asked for a better surgeon. She is outstanding, she listened and understood how i wanted to keep a very natural and conservative result from my breast lift with augmentation. She took the time to explain the procedure and answer all my questions, always made me feel at ease. The final result was amazing, could not imagine better. Her staff was great! I would definitely recommend Doctor Colwell for anyone seeking plastic surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Joanna Bermudez – Oct 22, 2018
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I am one week post op and can't describe how great I feel and how happy I am with my breast reduction. Dr. Colwell is an artist who took my discomfort and replaced it with joy! The entire ensemble - the anaestheiologists, the nurses, the hospital (MGH), was flawless in their care of me. So happy with my decision and the end result. Thank you Dr. Colwell and staff!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Laura in Cambridge, MA – Jun 19, 2018
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Dr. Colwell exceeded my expectations. Professional and friendly - her staff are as delightful as they are competent!!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Liana Thulander in Hampstead, NH – Dec 12, 2017
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I had an excellent experience with Dr. Colwell. She truly cares about her patients. My consult with her was very thorough and she answered all of my questions. I had a tummy tuck and breast augmentation and my results were extraordinary! I feel better than I have ever felt about my body image. I love the way I look and I would definitely recommend Dr. Amy Colwell to a friend or family member.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Boston, Ma – Sep 11, 2017
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I have had nothing but professional, caring, considerate and thorough visits with Dr. Colwell. Prophylactic double mastectomy with nipple sparing went great. I can't believe how the scars are disappearing! I have had a few other surgeries and wish the scars were as small as these. Great team with Dr. Specht.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
NH – Aug 08, 2017
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She is really good at what she does. She did my breast reconstruction after a double mastectomy and did a great job. Very happy. Not very talkative or personable. Her receptionist could be nicer.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jun 06, 2017
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Terrible bedside manner Terrible care Would not recommend
What went well
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Bronx, NY – Apr 13, 2017
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Dr Colwell is an incredibly talented surgeon. She did both a tummy tuck and, few years later, a butt lift for me and I could not be happier. The scars were minimal right after surgery and basically are none existent now. (this is why I chose her...she invented a minimally scarring incision technique). My husband loves the result so much he frequently jokes that we should leave money to Dr Colwell in our Will :) She also has a sweet, kind bedside manner. I highly recommend her
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Chicopee, MA – Feb 08, 2017
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Dr. Colwell does more nipple-sparing mastectomies than anyone else in the Boston area and knows how to make them work for patients who have been turned away by other plastic surgeons who haven't yet mastered her techniques. Inferolateral incision leaves minimal scarring too. She is hard to teach outside of appointments so come prepared with all your questions.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
Boston MA – Sep 20, 2016
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About Me

biography

Dr. Amy Colwell, MD is a plastic surgeon in Boston, MA and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Colwell has extensive experience in Breast Surgery. She graduated from University of Minnesota Medical School in 2000. She is affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital.
  • Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Brigham And Women's Hospital

    Residency Hospital
  • University Of Minnesota Medical School

    Medical School, 2000
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Plastic Surgery®
Plastic Surgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Locations

Practice

Carlos Fernandez-Del Castillo MD15 Parkman St Boston, MA 02114
1
Massachusetts General Hospital55 Fruit St Boston, MA 02114
2

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    55 Fruit St
    Boston, MA 02114
    Recipient of 31
    hospital awards

    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

    Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2025)

    Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    90%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    6% higher than the national average

    86%
    Patients would recommend the hospital to friends and family

    21% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality