Advice Needed On Plastic Surgeon in Georgia

I am in need of a Tummy Tuck and/or panniculectomy. I have lost 85 pounds via diet and excersise and am left with a large hanging apron of skin. The muscles in my stomach are also separated from a c-section. I have severe backpain and my PCP has suggested plastic surgery. I had a consultation today with a plastic surgeon but was less than satisfied after speaking with him. He basically said that my insurance would probably cover the panniculectomy but would not attempt to try and get them to cover the tummy tuck. He told me that I could be left with no belly button or one that was very out of place after the panniculectomy due to the insurance not covering him moving it. I can not afford the additional 5k he is asking for the tummy tuck. Has anyone had success with a plastic surgeons office in the Atlanta or surrounding area being able to get approval for a tummy tuck? I have Blue Cross PPO. I have documented back issues from my PCP and I have his support. I also have documented rash problems from the sagging skin. Any advice on what plastic surgeons have been successful in getting approvals for Tummy Tucks would be helpful. Thanks in advance! Mary

If I may ask.... who was your surgeon or the one referring to all of what he is telling you about your belly button? I help those who need help getting the approval when that phase is needed. Generally about fifteen months out. I'd be glad to help you. Crece

I saw Dr. Frederick Work in his office for a consultation. Although he and his finance person seemed optimistic that I would be approved for the panni, he said ins would not pay for the tummy tuck and that I would need to come out of pocket. I asked what I would get with just the panni and he said he would remove the lower portion on skin, do nothing to the stomach area, not tighten muscles, and do nothing with the belly button.... Basically, to me it seemed he would be going in cutting off some skin and I would be left with the rest in whatever condition it ended up in. From reading the forums I know this is not how most plastic surgeons do work so I will not be using Dr. Work. I am back to the drawing boards and the long waits for getting in for a consultation with a new surgeon. I am even more nervous now about getting the approval from BCBS. I feel like this will never become a reality for me and I worked so hard over the last 2 years to reach this weight loss goal. Thank you for your reply and any advice you can offer is appreciated. Mary

There are several PS in the Atlanta area. I have an appointment with one at www.artisanplasticsurgery.com with Dr Ashraf. I've been following a fellow members weight loss and TT and this is the surgeon she used. I understand that a TT and the Pani are billed to the insurance agencies under the same codes.....and she will help you do all that is necessary to get the TT. I have only talked with the office staff and that in and of itself has been so very pleasant so far!!! Congrats on your wieght loss - good luck with the plastics!! Dee Dee