Ready to know more about San Diego?

Subscribe
Partner Content JANUARY 30, 2023

Best Dab Rigs: Top 5 Picks Of 2023

Whether you are an experienced user looking to upgrade your collection of dab rigs or a new user, choosing the right dab rig to suit your preference can be a difficult task.

Best Dab Rigs: Top 5 Picks Of 2023

Dab rigs, sometimes referred to as concentrate pipes or oil rigs, are a kind of water pipe made for smoking concentrates like wax and shatter. They have grown in popularity in recent years as more individuals are learning about the advantages of using concentrates rather than conventional flower.

Whether you are an experienced user looking to upgrade your collection of dab rigs or a new user, choosing the right dab rig to suit your preference can be a difficult task. When it comes to finding the best dab rig, there are a few key factors to consider. We have compiled a list of best dab rigs keeping these factors into account. 

Top 5 Dab Rigs (Reviewed)

  1. Empire Glassworks Recycler Mini Rig: Overall Best Dab Rigs On The Market

  2. Appetite for Destruction 10″ Dab Rig: Top Rated Dab Rig For Enhanced Smoking Experience

  3. Indian Summer – Evolution – 12″: Affordable Dab Rigs; Best In Class

  4. Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe: Cheap Dab Rig Under $100

  5. Cheech & Chong Jade East Dab Rig Water Pipe: Popular Dab Rigs For Sale

#1.  Empire Glassworks Recycler Mini Rig: Overall Best Dab Rigs On The Market

 

In the field of glass art, dopeboo is a well-known and reputable company, and their Recycler Mini Dab Rig – Mushroom is a shining example of their skill and attention to detail. At just 9 inches tall, this rig is of the ideal size for individuals looking for a portable and small dab rig that doesn’t skimp on utility or style.

This rig’s mushroom theme is readily apparent because of the elaborate mushroom design that adorns its base. The highest quality glass is used in the manufacturing of this apparatus, guaranteeing its durability and ability to withstand the rigors of regular use. Additionally, the glass is thick and strong, giving it a sense of toughness and longevity that is difficult to find in other small dab rigs available in the market.

This mini dab rig’s recycling design is one of its primary characteristics. The vapor is drawn through a series of chambers where it is cooled and filtered before being inhaled in order for the recycling function to work. This enhances the flavor and smoothness of the vapor in addition to reducing coughing and lung irritation. The glass’s swirling patterns create a captivating and distinctive look, and the recycler design gives the rig an additional level of visual appeal. 

The rig also has a 14.5 mm female joint, which makes it possible to combine it with many various nails and bangers. The joint is simple to operate and maneuver because it is positioned at a 90-degree angle. The glass nail and dome that goes with the rig’s mushroom concept completes the overall design of the apparatus.

This recycler mini dab rig is a great option for people searching for a dab rig that is simple to clean and maintain in addition to its aesthetic and practical features. The rig is simple to clean and maintain because it is simple to disassemble and reassemble.

The Empire Glassworks Recycler Mini Rig – Mushroom is a high-quality, fashionable, and functional mini dab rig that is sure to please even the most picky dabbers. It is a distinctive and eye-catching object thanks to its small size, recycling design, and complex mushroom theme. It is also a useful and long-lasting investment due to its durability and simplicity of cleaning. It is the ideal rig for anyone looking for a more covert and portable approach to take advantage of dabbing’s advantages. You can easily buy this amazing dab rig online for a very reasonable price at Dopeboo. 

#2.  Appetite for Destruction 10″ Dab Rig: Top Rated Dab Rig For Enhanced Smoking Experience

Appetite for Destruction is Guns N’ Roses’ self-titled debut album from 1987, it is regarded as one of the best rock albums of all time. The Appetite for Destruction 10″ Dab Rig allows fans to now experience their favorite tunes in a brand-new way.

This dab rig, which measures 10 inches tall and is manufactured with premium borosilicate glass, has elaborate elements that honors the well-known album. The rig has a beautiful design that incorporates images of the cross and skull from the record cover. The band’s logo is prominently featured on the neck of the rig as well.

For individuals who want a dab rig that is simple to use and manage but still packs a punch in terms of size, this 10″ dab rig is ideal. The chamber of the device is large enough to accommodate a sizable volume of water, which aids in cooling and filtering the vapor before it is inhaled by the user. The joint is of a normal 14mm size for dab rigs, and the downstem is fixed.

Additionally, the rig has a 14mm male joint that allows you to customize your experience by working with many other accessories, such as nails and bangers. The joint is strong and expertly made, guaranteeing a tight fit and minimal leakage.

The Guns N’ Roses Appetite for Destruction 10″ Dab Rig is the perfect blend of form and function that you can easily find on Tokeplanet at a very reasonable cost. The size of the gear makes it simple to carry and operate, and the design’s attention to detail is excellent. The typical 14mm joint size enables you to personalize your experience with a variety of accessories, such as nails and bangers. Regardless of whether you enjoy the band or simply a well-made dab rig, this item is definitely worth trying.

#3. Indian Summer – Evolution – 12″ : Affordable Dab Rigs; Best In Class

 

The Indian Summer Evolution 12″ dab rig is a high-quality piece of glassware designed for use with concentrates or “dabs”. Consuming cannabis extracts like wax or oil using a rig (a water pipe made specifically for dabbing) and a nail (a heated surface on which the extract is placed and vaporized).

With a height of 12 inches, the Indian Summer Evolution rig is a manageable, medium-sized device. The rig is constructed of thick, premium borosilicate glass, which is renowned for its toughness and resilience to heat. Because the glass is transparent, the user can watch the vapor and bubbles as they form, which enhances the entire aesthetic experience.

The design of the Indian Summer Evolution dab rig is one of its most unique qualities. The arm of the rig is twisted and spiral-shaped, and it joins the nail to the rig’s base. This design feature enhances the rig’s aesthetic appeal while also assisting in diffusing the vapor and cooling it before it hits the user, producing a smoother and cooler hit.

The dab rig also has a substantial, sturdy base that aids in maintaining its upright position and preventing it from toppling over. Additionally, the base has a built-in showerhead percolator that aids in additional filtration and cooling the vapor for a smoother and more pleasurable experience.

The Indian Summer Evolution rig comes with a 14mm male quartz banger, which is the type of nail most commonly used for dabbing. It is simple to vaporize concentrates with the quartz banger since it heats up quickly and retains heat efficiently. In order to maintain the rig’s performance over time, the banger is also simple to clean.

Using the Indian Summer Evolution rig is relatively easy. The user starts by adding water to the base, covering the percolator holes as they go. The concentrate is then placed on the quartz banger after it has been heated with a butane burner. The user inhales through the mouthpiece as the concentrate vaporizes, bringing the vapor into the rig’s chamber. A smooth and pleasurable hit is delivered as a result of the water in the base cooling the vapor as it travels through the percolator.

Overall, The Indian Summer Evolution 12″ dab rig is an excellent piece of glassware that is made for using with concentrates. The rig’s distinctive appearance, the use of borosilicate glass, and the integrated percolator all enhance the dabbing experience. You can easily buy this dab rig online for an affordable price at the website of Dopeboo. The rig is a fantastic option for anyone searching for a high-quality dab rig because it is simple to operate, reliable, and well-built.

#4.Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe: Cheap Dab Rig Under $100

 

The Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe is a highly functional and stylish piece of glassware that is perfect for those who enjoy dabbing concentrates. High-quality borosilicate glass, which is renowned for its durability and heat resistance, is used to make this apparatus. The 8″ height is the ideal size for individuals looking for a manageable, small rig that still has enough room for smoke to cool and filter.

The Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe’s unique design is one of its most distinctive qualities. The apparatus has a fixed downstem that is joined to a water filter chamber. This improves the smoothness and enjoyment of dabbing in addition to cooling and filtering the smoke. A detachable diffuser that is part of the downstem further breaks up smoke for improved filtration and cooling.

A 14mm male joint is included with the Dab Rig Water Pipe that allows it to work with a range of dabbing accessories. This also comes with a 14mm female quartz banger, which is ideal for people who want to heat their concentrates with a torch. A 14mm female joint is also included on the side of the rig so you may attach a quartz banger or other accessory, such a carb cap.

Another outstanding aspect of the Versuz 8” dab rig is its small size. This rig is simple to carry and store because it stands just 8 inches tall. It also fits perfectly into a suitcase or backpack, making it ideal for individuals who want a rig that is simple to transport.

Additionally, the Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe is incredibly simple to maintain and clean. It is simple to separate the removable diffuser and the water filter chamber in order to clean it with a brush or pipe cleaner. The rig’s borosilicate glass design also makes it resistant to stains and scratches, ensuring that it will maintain its excellent appearance for a long time.

For individuals who enjoy dabbing concentrates, the Versuz 8″ Dab Rig Water Pipe is a beautiful, high-quality, functional, and fashionable piece of glassware which is readily available at a very good price on Dopeboo. 

#5. Cheech & Chong Jade East Dab Rig Water Pipe: Popular Dab Rigs For Sale

 

Cheech & Chong is an iconic comedy duo made up of Richard “Cheech” Marin and Tommy Chong. They are renowned for their humorous performances and movies that frequently feature marijuana use. The Jade East Dab Rig water pipe is among their top sellers.

The Jade East Dab Rig is a premium water pipe made specifically for dabs, also known as concentrates. Dabbing is a process of inhaling marijuana vapor through a water pipe after heating a little amount of concentrate, such as wax or oil. A seamless and comfortable dabbing experience is guaranteed by the Jade East Dab Rig.

The borosilicate glass is used to build the water pipe, it is strong and heat-resistant and is renowned for withstanding high temperatures without cracking or breaking. The glass is a fantastic option for frequent users because it is very simple to maintain and clean.

The Jade East Dab Rig stands out from other dab rigs on the market thanks to its distinctive design. The pipe has a 14mm female joint as well, making it compatible with a wide range of concentrates and dabbing accessories.

The enhanced filtration and cooling that a water pipe like the Jade East Dab Rig offers is one of its key advantages. In addition to serving as a filter to catch dust and ash, the water at the pipe’s base also cools the vapor to a pleasant temperature for inhalation. Compared to smoking concentrates without a water pipe, this results in a much smoother and more pleasurable experience.

A 14mm male bowl and detachable downstem are also included with the Jade East Dab Rig, making cleaning and maintenance simple. The bowl makes it simple to load concentrates, while the downstem filters and cools the vapor. The dab rig also has a flared base that prevents it from being knocked over. 

All in all, the Cheech & Chong Jade East Dab Rig Water Pipe is a superbly made item that is ideal for concentrate users. Its distinctive style and robust construction make it a fantastic option for regular users, and the improved filtration and cooling offered by the water in the pipe’s base makes dabbing a smooth and pleasurable experience. It is a perfect option for anyone who wishes to enjoy concentrates. You can buy it for a very reasonable price on Dopeboo and have this delivered at your doorstep. 

What are Dab rigs?

Dab rigs, also known as oil rigs or concentrate pipes, are a type of water pipe designed specifically for smoking concentrates. The nail or banger is one of a dab rig’s essential components. The concentrate is placed here and heated, typically with a butane torch, in this section of the pipe. As these materials can resist high temperatures without breaking or shattering, the nail or banger is often composed of titanium, quartz, or ceramic.

Dab rigs come in a range of sizes and styles, from compact, carry-on models to larger, ornate items. Straight tubes, recyclers, and beaker bongs are a few prominent styles.

How to choose the best dab rig

There are a number of things to take into account when selecting a dab rig to make sure you have the finest experience.

  • You should first focus on the size and design of the rig. Dab rigs are available in a range of dimensions, from small, portable models to bigger, more complex models. Think about where you’ll be using the equipment and how you intend to use it. A smaller, more portable alternative might be the ideal option if you intend to use your equipment while on the go. A bigger rig with more capabilities might be more appropriate if you intend to use it mostly at home.

  • The airflow of the rig is also an important factor to take into account. A good setup will have a fluid, unhindered airflow that makes breathing simple. A diffused downstem, which splits up the smoke into tiny bubbles before it reaches the user, can be used to achieve this.

  • Next, think about the kind of nails the equipment uses. Different materials, such as glass, ceramic, titanium, and quartz, can be used to make nails. The most affordable option is glass nails. Although more expensive, ceramic and quartz nails can be more durable.

  • Finally, think about the rig’s general strength and durability. Choose a rig that is long-lasting, manufactured well, and made of high-quality materials. A good rig should be simple to clean and maintain and have a solid base and joint.

Concluding On The Best Dab Rigs For A Better Dabbing Experience

In conclusion, take into account the size and design, the kind of nail, the airflow, and the general quality and durability when selecting a dab rig. You may pick the ideal dab rig for your requirements and have the finest experience by taking these variables into account. We have listed the best dab rigs in this article and everything you need to know about them so you don’t have to go through the hassle of finding one. 

 

 

 

Screenshot 2023-01-30 at 1.46.54 PM.png

.

Subscribe to our newsletters

Select Options

By subscribing you confirm that you agree with our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Studio S SEPTEMBER 11, 2026

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything

At Vi at La Jolla Village, residents don't have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.

All-access pass to good living.

As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.

Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.

The harmony of mind, body and community.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”

Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.

Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.

While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.

“Location, location, location”

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.

“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.

With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.

The best of all worlds.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.

To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Advanced Pain and Regenerative Specialists

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Advanced Pain and Regenerative Specialists
SDM Top Docs 2026

Navneet Boddu, MD

Dr. Navneet Boddu is San Diego’s leading specialist in regenerative medicine and pain medicine. With more than 28 years of experience and board certifications in both pain medicine and anesthesiology, Dr. Boddu uses image guidance and precision treatments to provide personalized, non-surgical care for spine and joint disorders.

At Advanced Pain and Regenerative Specialists, Dr. Boddu specializes in autologous stem cells and PRP treatments. Utilizing the latest medical technology and evidence-based cellular therapies, he uses patients’ own cells to repair and heal joints, tendons, ligaments, and spine disorders. He is also one of the few physicians in the country who conducted FDA-authorized Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell treatment for patients with severe COVID-19. It’s this commitment to innovation that has made him a seven-time Top Doctor in San Diego County and a national leader in regenerative medicine.

Dr. Boddu received the 2025 Manchikanti Excellence Award in Regenerative Medicine. He is faculty at several national and international conferences on regenerative medicine and is a member of the Editorial Board of Pain Physician, a medical journal.

Visit

2125 S El Camino Real, Suite 200, Oceanside, California 92054
760-429-7172 | advpainandregen.com

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: AURAE MD Aesthetic & Regenerative Medicine

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: AURAE MD Aesthetic & Regenerative Medicine
SDM Top Docs 2026

Margo Aura Emami, MD

At AURAE MD, aesthetic medicine is not about disguising the aging process. For Dr. Margo Aura Emami, it is about understanding how to work with the body’s own capacity to repair and renew.

A Harvard-educated physician with more than 30 years of advanced procedural experience, Dr. Emami has built AURAE MD around a distinctly medical approach: one that begins with biology, anatomy, and long-term tissue health rather than trends or minimally effective corrections.

Her philosophy is rooted in regenerative medicine. Rather than relying on temporary injections, she evaluates how aging affects collagen production, cellular function, skin quality, facial structure, and healing—and designs treatment plans that support the body’s intrinsic regenerative processes.

That may mean combining growth factors, peptides, collagen-stimulating technologies, precision injectables, energy-based therapies, and medical-grade skincare in a deliberately sequenced approach. Because every procedure at AURAE MD is physician-administered, Dr. Emami can continuously evaluate tissue response and determine what should come next—or whether anything more is needed at all.

Her distinction lies in judgment: knowing when to intervene, how aggressively to treat, and when a more measured approach will create the better outcome.

The goal is not to mask age or manufacture a different face. It is to preserve vitality, support the skin’s natural ability to function more youthfully, and help patients look unmistakably like themselves.

Visit

9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 840, La Jolla, California 92037 | 858-461-8543
@aurae_md | [email protected] | auraemd.com

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 12, 2026

Health & Wellness Fall 2026

Hot girl summer is officially over. It’s time for a healthy everybody fall.

Health & Wellness Fall 2026

As we’re getting closer to closing out 2026, it’s an ideal time to turn the focus back to health and wellness and really think about what you need to feel your best. You can’t give your best self to other people unless you’re taking care of yourself.

But what health and wellness means is totally up to you. Sometimes, self-care looks like addressing stress, anxiety, or burnout. Or, it can mean taking the time to realign your body spirit. And some other times still, it involves trading your 9 to 5 responsibilities for a sweat session on the court. Only you can decide what you truly need. We’re just here to help you find the best ways to get it.

Healcove Chiropractic

Maybe you’ve been feeling a bit tense or stressed out—totally understandable in today’s hustle and bustle world. Or it could be that you’re not quite moving the way you want to. Sometimes, it’s just that the accumulation of days, weeks, or even years of daily strain is starting to take a toll. If your body’s out of sync, everything else tends to be, too. Low-grade chronic pain and reduced mobility can take a lot out of a person.

The board-certified chiropractors and wellness professionals at Healcove Chiropractic are experts at addressing that stage where you’re not injured, exactly, but you’re not at 100%, either. Named San Diego Magazine’s “Best Chiropractor in San Diego” in 2025 and 2026, Healcove Chiropractic aims to provide integrated, preventative care centered on long-term, science-backed approaches that ensure each patient can stay as active as possible and live life with less pain. The secret is individualized care. Every patient can expect a thorough 60-minute consultation session that includes a posture and movement screening, which allows the team to develop a personalized plan.

Courtesy of Healcove Chiropractic

Depending on the results, that may include any combination of chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, physical therapy, or functional fitness training. Whatever the team recommends, you can be sure that it’s tailored to meeting your body’s needs today and the future.

Healcove also uses unconventional therapies to treat common conditions, like Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, a clinical rehabilitation method that retrains the body’s stabilization systems and helps active adults and former athletes improve core strength, mobility, and movement efficiency. Then there’s vibration and sound therapy. Healcove’s Vibe Table uses precise sound frequencies and gentle vibration to relax and recalibrate the body.

Everwell Acupuncture

Research shows that by stimulating specific points on the body with tiny, painless needles, a natural healing response is activated, helping to restore balance, regulate the nervous system, and improve overall wellbeing.

The practice of acupuncture has been used for centuries to address an expansive range of conditions, from chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and digestive issues to stress and burnout, migraines, fertility and postpartum struggles, hormonal imbalances, sleep concerns, and more. Everwell, a holistic acupuncture practice based in Solana Beach, works to heal body, mind, and spirit with a blend of modern, evidence-based acupuncture, classical Chinese medicine, and personalized care. Its highly trained, doctorate-level practitioners don’t subscribe to a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they aim to transform what care can look like. No more feeling rushed, misunderstood, or like the answers you were seeking are still out of reach.

Patients at Everwell are invited to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience care rooted in intentional listening and radical empathy that leaves patients feeling seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. Providers at Everwell focus on uncovering the underlying imbalances that drive physical symptoms. For example, its General Vitality regimen—a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance—is designed for women on the go.

Courtesy of Everwell

This offering can support low energy and burnout, brain fog and poor focus, disrupted sleep, stress resilience and nervous system regulation, and whole-body balance and stamina. If you’ve never tried acupuncture before or aren’t sure if the team will be a fit, Everwell’s complimentary 20-minute consultation is highly recommended. What follows is a two-hour initial in-take appointment to determine the best course of action. Every question and concern will be addressed by a dedicated practitioner who wants to find the specific solutions that work best for you.

Everwell isn’t just another healthcare provider; it’s a dedicated partner who will be there for each patient’s health journey.

USA Pickleball Association

Pickleball is one of the hottest hobbies in the health and wellness space right now. Its popularity has soared over the past few years, so much so that it’s become the fastest-growing sport in the country, with an estimated 24 million people (or more!) regularly picking up the pickleball paddle.

Courtesy of USA Pickleball National Championships

Pickleball has captivated players of all ages and fitness levels, and it’s easy to see why. It’s fairly easy to learn, it’s fun, and because the court is smaller than a traditional tennis court, it requires far less running, though it’s still a high-energy sport. It’s also a great form of stress relief that encourages social connection. Though pickleball is generally thought of as a newer sport, it’s likely a lot older than people may think. The novel racket sport’s history dates back to the mid-60s, when it was created as a combination of badminton and ping pong, and it started gaining traction among hobbyists in the decades that followed. The USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) formed as the national governing body for the sport more than 40 years ago. The nonprofit organization has grown over the years, and today, USA Pickleball plays a vital role in promoting its growth, maintaining official rules, supporting local tournaments, and fostering inclusive, vibrant pickleball communities.

Beyond its tournament sanctioning and officiating certification programs, the organization works to raise the sport’s national profile through flagship events. Most notably, USAPA will host the country’s top amateur and professional players at the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships from October 31 through November 8 at the Barnes Tennis Center here in San Diego.

This premier tournament highlights the evolution of pickleball into a major competitive sport while bringing thousands of athletes and enthusiasts together.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 11, 2026

A Groundbreaking Surgery, Supported by a Team

Dr. Noran Barry brings a new robotic-assisted breast cancer surgery option to Southern California.

A Groundbreaking Surgery, Supported by a Team
Courtesy of Sharp Rees-Stealy

In May 2026, Dr. Noran Barry performed Southern California’s first robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy since the procedure received FDA approval. The milestone brought a new option for patients facing breast cancer surgery. It also reflects the specialized care available through Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group, where Dr. Barry works alongside other doctors and specialists as part of a coordinated care team.

Dr. Barry is a fellowship-trained breast cancer surgeon with Sharp Rees-Stealy and Sharp HealthCare’s medical director of breast health. She is affiliated with Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns and Sharp Memorial Hospital. Sharp Mary Birch was the first hospital in Southern California and one of just 15 in the United States to offer the procedure.

For a patient considering a mastectomy, treating cancer is the first concern. Questions about appearance, sensation and recovery matter, too. Robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy gives Dr. Barry another way to address those concerns while working with patients and their care teams on the treatment ahead.

What makes the procedure different

A nipple-sparing mastectomy removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple and surrounding tissue for reconstruction. Dr. Barry uses a single-port robotic system, guiding surgical instruments and a high-definition camera through one small incision. She can often place that incision in a less visible area, such as near the underarm.

That placement can leave a smaller, more hidden scar than a traditional mastectomy. Preserving tissue for reconstruction may also help create a more natural-looking breast. In some cases, the surgery may preserve nerves in the remaining tissue and help maintain breast sensation.

Compared with traditional methods, the robotic-assisted approach may offer less blood loss during surgery, less pain during recovery and a faster recovery. Early results also suggest a lower likelihood of nipple necrosis, a complication in which loss of blood flow damages the nipple and areola.

For Dr. Barry, the ability to place the incision strategically is especially meaningful. It allows her to treat the cancer while considering the scar a patient will see after surgery. Along with reconstruction, that detail can make a difference to someone adjusting to changes in their body.

Care that continues beyond surgery

Breast cancer care extends beyond one surgical technique. At Sharp Rees-Stealy, doctors and specialists work together to support patients through decisions about their care. The medical group’s breast cancer navigation program also supports patients as they move through diagnosis, treatment and the steps that follow.

That team approach is evident in Dr. Barry’s work. After she performs the breast surgery, plastic surgeons complete the reconstruction. Together, their work addresses the cancer treatment and the patient’s appearance after surgery. Dr. Barry understands how difficult breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be, and how meaningful it is to offer an option that may help patients feel more like themselves.

For patients, the care surrounding the operation matters alongside the technology. They may want to understand how the surgery works, what reconstruction involves and what to expect during recovery. They can bring those questions to a team that works together, with navigation support through the course of their care.

Dr. Barry’s milestone expands the surgical options available to her patients. Her work within Sharp Rees-Stealy’s coordinated care brings the story back to what patients need: skilled specialists, clear conversations about their choices and support that extends beyond one procedure.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 6, 2026

Care That Stays Close to Home

Sharp Community Medical Group connects patients with high-quality, coordinated health care close to home while supporting the communities its physicians serve.

Care That Stays Close to Home
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Kaveh Bahmanpour, a family medicine physician and patient

When it comes to health care, convenience matters. Whether you need a routine checkup, a specialist appointment, diagnostic imaging, or hospital care, receiving services close to home can make a meaningful difference for you and your family. That is the philosophy behind Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG), one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, built around a simple idea: exceptional health care should be available in the communities where people live, work, and raise their families.

SCMG’s local care delivery model begins with choosing a primary care physician in your neighborhood. When specialty care is needed, your doctor can refer you to local specialists who are part of the SCMG network. Those specialists can admit patients to nearby Sharp HealthCare or Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, helping ensure care remains coordinated and close to home. 

Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Sharp Community Medical Group’s local care delivery model

The benefits extend far beyond physician visits. SCMG patients have access to community-based laboratories, MRI and radiology centers, urgent care locations, pharmacies, and other ancillary services throughout the region. Instead of traveling across the county for care, patients can often receive the services they need in the communities they know and trust. As a result, care becomes more convenient, more connected, and easier to navigate. 

For many SCMG physicians, the word “Community” in the organization’s name is more than branding. It reflects a commitment to giving back to the people and neighborhoods they serve.

That commitment is evident in the work of Dr. Joseph Novencido, an SCMG-affiliated physician and President of the Filipino Medical Association of San Diego, who organized the inaugural 2025 Carabao 5K. The event was created to encourage healthy lifestyles and physical activity among Filipino Americans, a population that experiences cardiovascular disease at significantly higher rates than the general U.S. population.

“Community is extremely important to me,” said Dr. Novencido. “I grew up in a very diverse community, and working in this area, in the community I grew up in is so fulfilling. It is so nice to be in a position where I can make a difference in the lives of the people here.”

Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Joseph Novincido, a family medicine physician and his family

SCMG physician Dr. Leticia Polanco shares a similar passion for serving her community in Chula Vista.

“The reason I decided to go into medicine is because I felt there was an overwhelming need for people like me to take care of the community that I live in,” she said. “In our practice, we work as a team, we collaborate with our staff, and we really want to give that warm feeling to people who come here for care.”

Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Leticia Polanco, a family medicine physician and a staff member

Stories like these highlight what distinguishes SCMG: a network of physicians who are deeply invested in the health and well-being of the communities they serve, while providing patients with access to a coordinated local system of care. From preventive care and specialty services to imaging, urgent care, and hospital treatment, SCMG helps patients receive the right care, in the right place, close to home.


About Sharp Community Medical Group

Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG) is one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, with more than 1,200 affiliated primary care and specialty physicians practicing throughout San Diego County. SCMG physicians can admit patients to local Sharp HealthCare and Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, providing convenient access to coordinated care throughout the community. For more information, visit scmg.org.

Partner Content

Thousands of savvy locals already get it.

San Diego's best restaurants, experiences, and events—handpicked and delivered to your inbox weekly. You in?

Close the CTA

Contact Us

1230 Columbia Street, Suite 800,

San Diego, CA