About the Practice
Aaron M. Kearney, M.D.
Aaron Kearney, M.D. is a plastic surgeon at Northwestern Medicine. After obtaining his medical degree at Case Western Reserve University, he was accepted into the seven-year integrated Plastic Surgery residency program at Northwestern University. While at Northwestern, he spent seven years learning from world-renowned plastic surgeons won awards for his teaching and professionalism. He has contributed to research in plastic surgery, publishing 22 research articles, 10 book chapters and has presented his research at regional and national plastic surgery meetings.
One of Dr. Kearney’s focuses in research is post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. He has studied outcomes in women receiving radiation after mastectomy, the impact of animation deformity in implant-based breast reconstruction, and the affects of acellular dermal matrix use in breast reconstruction. He was also a co-investigator on a Plastic Surgery Foundation-funded grant studying the effect of radiation on tissue expansion. One of Dr. Kearney’s focuses in clinical practice is breast reconstruction after partial mastectomy (lumpectomy) or mastectomy. His priority is working with patients to find the solution that meets their needs and expectations, whether it be with a prosthetic implant or their own tissue.
After residency, Dr. Kearney completed an additional year of specialized fellowship training and returned to Northwestern Medicine where he practices at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital in Palos Heights and the Palos Health Surgery Center in Orland Park. Dr. Kearney’s main passion is delivering high quality plastic surgery care to the Chicago suburbs. He is proud to have brought a very caring team with him to NM Palos Hospital this is eager to serve you and help you look and feel your best.
Emily Coello, PA-C
Emily Coello, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery at Northwestern Medicine. A Chicago south suburbs native, Emily is proud to provide high-quality, personalized care to patients in the community she calls home.
Emily earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University in Florida in 2016. During her training, she was recognized for academic excellence, earning placement on the Chancellor’s List and induction into the Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants. She brings over a decade of clinical experience as a physician assistant, with a strong foundation in both surgical and non-surgical patient care.
Emily has extensive experience in plastic surgery, including her time at Northwestern Memorial Hospital from 2021 to 2023. She has also contributed to academic research in breast reconstruction, reflecting her commitment to advancing the field and improving patient outcomes.
Since January 2025, Emily has been a valued member of the Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery team in the south region, where she works closely with Dr. Aaron Kearney to deliver thoughtful, patient-centered care. She is deeply committed to helping patients feel comfortable, informed, and confident throughout every stage of their experience.
In addition to her surgical expertise, Emily is experienced in non-surgical aesthetic treatments, including Botox, dermal fillers, and microneedling. She is passionate about achieving natural, balanced results that enhance each patient’s individual features.
Emily finds great fulfillment in caring for patients close to her family and community, combining advanced medical training with a warm, approachable style.
Nicole Cohn, BSN, RN
Nicole “Nikki” Cohn, RN, is an experienced registered nurse at Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery in Palos Heights, where she has been a valued member of the team since October 2024. With a strong background in perioperative nursing, Nikki is dedicated to guiding patients through every step of their surgical journey with compassion, clarity, and expertise.
Nikki earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Andrews University in Michigan in 2008 and brings over 15 years of nursing experience across a wide range of clinical settings. Her career has been rooted at Northwestern Medicine, where she has developed extensive expertise in preoperative and postoperative care.
Nikki is known for her ability to put patients at ease, taking the time to answer questions and provide clear guidance before and after surgery. Her passion for patient education and advocacy helps patients feel confident and well-prepared throughout their experience.
Earlier in her career, Nikki served in leadership and education roles, including as an Education Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine, where she developed training programs, mentored nursing staff, and contributed to clinical innovation and patient care initiatives. She has also worked as a Quality Utilization Nurse Specialist, further strengthening her understanding of healthcare systems, patient safety, and quality outcomes.
Nikki’s dedication to high-quality care, combined with her warm and supportive approach, makes her an integral part of the patient experience at Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery.
