Question:
PLASTIC SURGEON--PITTSBURGH, PA

I need help! Does anyone know of a plastic surgeon in the Pittsburgh, PA area that has had success with getting insurance companies to pay for tummy tuck? Also, I want to have tummy tuck, breast lift and implants done at the same time. I went to a PS and he said that he could get the tummy tuck approved and that he could do all three procedures at once. Well, guess what? He couldn't get my tummy tuck approved and now he is saying that he can not do the procedures at the same time. So, I'm back to square one, looking for a plastic surgeon and then getting a referral from family doctor. 3 months worth of work down the drain. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!    — Angela E. (posted on September 21, 2002)

September 23, 2002
Ernest Manders at UPMC is reportedly excellent and has done many WLS patients. He spoke at our support group a few months ago and that is who I plan on looking for in a year or so, I am only 7 days post op. Good luck to you.
   — Dana S.

September 24, 2002
Dr. Simona Pautler is AWESOME! Got me approved, and did a fantastic job. Look for her online by doing a search for Dr. Lori Cherup (her partner).
   — beth N.

January 26, 2003
I also used Dr. Simona Pautler and can't say enough good things about her. I had an awful time finding recommendations for and choosing a plastic surgeon here in Pittsburgh. I'm a little over a week out from a lower body lift and mastopexy performed by Dr. Pautler in Pittsburgh, PA. The woman is a genius, an artist, a miracle worker! I searched every picture on the internet, and have to say I look as good or better than any work I've ever seen. My breast lift far exceeds my expectations. They NEVER looked this good, not even when I was 16 years old. She got the panniculectomy part approved on the first try (unheard of!) and I added on the rest as it wasn't really medically necessary. Other surgeons I looked into did not do the entire lower body lift, or wouldn't combine it with the breast lift, or their pictures did not show that they were as concerned with the aesthetic result as I was. Her work is superior. If you're looking for a surgeon who will work with you, and wants you to have the best result possible, call her! She's wonderful. The office number is 412-833-1117.
   — mom2jtx3