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Patient Reviews

Reviews for Pittsburgh, PA Plastic Surgeon Dr. James Fernau Tummy Tuck Procedures

Pittsburgh area men and women looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform their cosmetic surgery procedure may find our patient reviews helpful. Dr. Fernau’s patients consider him to be one of the best plastic surgeons in the Pittsburgh area and we are very grateful for their ongoing testimonials. Every patient comment we receive we take to heart, for they keep Dr. Fernau striving to be that “Top Doc” that every patient is seeking. We invite you to read what our patients have to say about Dr. Fernau and our plastic surgery practice.

Filter30 Reviews  
5.0
DAPI
Review from C.S.  |  Source: Google  |  Jun 16, 2023

Absolutely thrilled with the results Dr. Fernau and his professional staff provided. I opted for the textured, teardrop shaped implants hoping for the most natural look possible and could not be more pleased. I also had liposuction on my neck followed by Renuvion to get rid of my double chin and neck sagging. Each day the results look better. Thank you, Dr. Fernau, Shelia, Alex, Amber, Sherry, Ryan, and Mara. Each of you made me feel understood. I did my “online research” and even had a consult with a surgeon closer to home. I’m so glad I went with my gut and sought out another surgeon. My sincerest thank you for making my wishes come true. PS: I’m planning on coming back for a tummy tuck once I have the funds! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from B.K.  |  Source: Google  |  Jun 07, 2023

Dr Fernau and his entire practice were an absolute dream to work with. From Mara at the desk, to the nurse Sheila, and the doctor himself. I got a mini tummy tuck, lipo, and fat grafting. My TT scar is so low! Perfectly carved. I am so grateful to have found him. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from C.  |  Source: Google  |  Sep 03, 2022

Breast Augmentation from start to finish was a great experience. This was my first time with any type of procedure let alone a cosmetic procedure. I didnt know what to expect. Office was very kind to answer any of my questions and Sheila even answer my text while on vacation. I'm very please with the result and would be love to have lipo or tummy tuck in the future. I will post results if that time comes! Thank you for the wonderful service you provide ❤️‍ More

5.0
DAPI
Review from C.N.  |  Source: Google  |  Aug 11, 2022

Breast Augmentation from start to finish was a great experience. This was my first time with any type of procedure let alone a cosmetic procedure. I didnt know what to expect. Office was very kind to answer any of my questions and Sheila even answer my text while on vacation. I'm very please with the result and would be love to have lipo or tummy tuck in the future. I will post results if that time comes! Thank you for the wonderful service you provide ❤️‍ More

5.0
DAPI
Review from E.W.  |  Source: Google  |  Feb 19, 2022

After 2 back surgeries and 7 years for not being able to walk properly or stand up straight I had finally gotten to a place of health where my mobility was normal. After 2 years of weightloss post back surgeries I was left with loose skin and uneven fat distribution around my body. I had a lipo 360 procedure done at another facility but was left very underwhelmed by the result. I had consulted with several other places in the tri state area but immediately following my consultation with Dr. Fernau I knew this was the place The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and the Dr. listened to my concerns over recovery with respect to my back issues. I had a mini tummy tuck and lipo of several areas. The whole process was incredibly professional and I felt safe and confident throughout the process. It is now 2 weeks post surgery and although I am still in recovery the results are amazing. I now have a beautifully natural hourglass figure and my confidence in my appearance is the best it's been since before my spine injury. My goal over the past years has been to get past the toll the spine injury took on my mind and my body. Dr. Fernau and his staff have helped me take a huge step in achieving that goal and I can't thank them enough! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from E.W.  |  Source: Google  |  Jan 21, 2022

After 2 back surgeries and 7 years for not being able to walk properly or stand up straight I had finally gotten to a place of health where my mobility was normal. After 2 years of weightloss post back surgeries I was left with loose skin and uneven fat distribution around my body. I had a lipo 360 procedure done at another facility but was left very underwhelmed by the result. I had consulted with several other places in the tri state area but immediately following my consultation with Dr. Fernau I knew this was the place The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and the Dr. listened to my concerns over recovery with respect to my back issues. I had a mini tummy tuck and lipo of several areas. The whole process was incredibly professional and I felt safe and confident throughout the process. It is now 2 weeks post surgery and although I am still in recovery the results are amazing. I now have a beautifully natural hourglass figure and my confidence in my appearance is the best it's been since before my spine injury. My goal over the past years has been to get past the toll the spine injury took on my mind and my body. Dr. Fernau and his staff have helped me take a huge step in achieving that goal and I can't thank them enough! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from J.S.  |  Source: Google  |  May 19, 2021

After a lot of research I decided I wanted a drainless tummy tuck. The first time I met with Dr. Fernau I knew that I wanted him to be my surgeon. He’s truly caring, listens and is easy to talk to. His practice uses the best and newest technology, and he always puts patient safety first. He ended up doing my tummy tuck and some lipo. My results exceeded my expectations, he is truly a perfectionist! The best part of it all is that it was as painless as it could be. I never even took a pain pill. He also gives complimentary laser treatments on your scars- as many as you need until it’s gone! The entire staff there is caring and extremely welcoming! Sheila, Alana and Amber make you feel completely at ease. I really can’t say enough good things about Dr. Fernau and his staff! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from J.S.  |  Source: Google  |  Apr 21, 2021

After a lot of research I decided I wanted a drainless tummy tuck. The first time I met with Dr. Fernau I knew that I wanted him to be my surgeon. He’s truly caring, listens and is easy to talk to. His practice uses the best and newest technology, and he always puts patient safety first. He ended up doing my tummy tuck and some lipo. My results exceeded my expectations, he is truly a perfectionist! The best part of it all is that it was as painless as it could be. I never even took a pain pill. He also gives complimentary laser treatments on your scars- as many as you need until it’s gone! The entire staff there is caring and extremely welcoming! Sheila, Alana and Amber make you feel completely at ease. I really can’t say enough good things about Dr. Fernau and his staff! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.R.  |  Source: Google  |  Mar 19, 2021

I needed a mommy make over after having my last child. Dr. Fernau did the most amazing job!! He listened to all my concerns and eased all my fears and concerns. I loved how he was using all the new state of the art techniques and products. And most important, safety was his number one goal. As a new mom that was so important to me!!! I had a tummy tuck many years ago and I was amazed at how much faster my recovery was this time compared to my first one. I even had more procedures with my tummy tuck this time which included , liposuction of multiple places , breast implant exchange, and a breast lift. I was back to work in 2 weeks, I was shocked. His staff was so friendly and helpful throughout the surgical process. I cannot say enough about how wonderful my entire experience was from start to finish! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.R.  |  Source: Google  |  Mar 02, 2021

I needed a mommy make over after having my last child. Dr. Fernau did the most amazing job!! He listened to all my concerns and eased all my fears and concerns. I loved how he was using all the new state of the art techniques and products. And most important, safety was his number one goal. As a new mom that was so important to me!!! I had a tummy tuck many years ago and I was amazed at how much faster my recovery was this time compared to my first one. I even had more procedures with my tummy tuck this time which included , liposuction of multiple places , breast implant exchange, and a breast lift. I was back to work in 2 weeks, I was shocked. His staff was so friendly and helpful throughout the surgical process. I cannot say enough about how wonderful my entire experience was from start to finish! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from A.  |  Source: Google  |  Nov 26, 2018

Dr. Fernau and his staff are amazing! In June 2018 I had a no drain lipoabdominoplasty and the results are better than I ever could have imagined. During the consultation, I was given the options based on what I wanted to accomplish and Dr. Fernau was very honest with me in which procedures would get me the best results. In deciding to go through with the tummy tuck, Sheila was a wealth of knowledge in going over the paper work and preoperative procedures. On the day of the surgery at Trinity Hospital (and their staff was amazing too!), I was nervous, but knew I was in good hands because of how thorough and meticulous Dr. Fernau was before we went into the room for surgery. After surgery I couldn't believe how good I felt and already looked! The recovery process was much better than expected (I never took a pain pill!). I was walking pretty much normal after a week and back to normal activities within 6 weeks. My life has changed completely due to this procedure and the wonderful results thanks to Dr. Fernau. I am continuing to workout and watch my diet and after 5 months post-op I am down 20 pounds and look like a whole knew person! I highly recommend Dr. Fernau and his staff. They are truly AMAZING! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from M.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Nov 26, 2018

No drain tummy tuck with amazing results - Dr. Fernau and his staff are amazing! In June 2018 I had a no drain lipoabdominoplasty and the results are better than I ever could have imagined. During the consultation, I was given the options based on what I wanted to accomplish and Dr. Fernau was very honest with me in which procedures would get me the best results. In deciding to go through with the tummy tuck, Sheila was a wealth of... More

5.0
DAPI
Review from M.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Nov 26, 2018

No drain tummy tuck with amazing results - Dr. Fernau and his staff are amazing! In June 2018 I had a no drain lipoabdominoplasty and the results are better than I ever could have imagined. During the consultation, I was given the options based on what I wanted to accomplish and Dr. Fernau was very honest with me in which procedures would get me the best results. In deciding to go through with the tummy tuck, Sheila was a wealth of knowledge in going over the paper work and preoperative procedures. On the day of the surgery at Trinity Hospital (and their staff was amazing too!), I was nervous, but knew I was in good hands because of how thorough and meticulous Dr. Fernau was before we went into the room for surgery. After surgery I couldn't believe how good I felt and already looked! The recovery process was much better than expected (I never took a pain pill!). I was walking pretty much normal after a week and back to normal activities within 6 weeks. My life has changed completely due to this procedure and the wonderful results thanks to Dr. Fernau. I am continuing to workout and watch my diet and after 5 months post-op I am down 20 pounds and look like a whole knew person! I highly recommend Dr. Fernau and his staff. They are truly AMAZING! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Oct 09, 2018

Phenomenal experience - From the first consultation, Dr. Fernau and his staff were beyond welcoming and helpful. He made me feel like I was his only patient. He seemed genuinely excited about my procedure and getting me the results that I wanted. He's a perfectionist and won't settle for less than perfect results. He travels around the world attending conferences related to his trade. He has his finger on the pulse of the latest technologies. I lost about 100 pounds 2 years ago and my breasts were loose bags of skin and tissue. He performed a breast lift and augmentation using the PAM technique. Its only been a month, but I can't believe how good they look. The scarring is so minimal right now and they look like full, natural breasts. I couldn't be happier with Dr. Fernau or my experience. I plan to go to him again for an abdominoplasty next year. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Oct 09, 2018

Absolute Plastic Surgery Genius! - Dr. Fernau and his entire staff are amazing. After numerous virtual consultations, I scheduled to have my lipo abdominoplasty with Dr. Fernau. PLEASE, don’t choose a surgeon on affordability or discounts, alone. This is your ONE body and you get what you pay for. I’m currently 6 days post-op and am already in love with my new shape. Dr. Fernau is an artist, not just a surgeon. His meticulous attention to detail and undivided attention will guarantee you results that you could only dream of. I traveled to the Pittsburgh area from South Carolina for his services and would do so again in a heartbeat. I have nothing but the utmost respect for this surgical genius and his staff. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Aug 02, 2018

Absolute Plastic Surgery Genius! - Dr. Fernau and his entire staff are amazing. After numerous virtual consultations, I scheduled to have my lipo abdominoplasty with Dr. Fernau. PLEASE, don’t choose a surgeon on affordability or discounts, alone. This is your ONE body and you get what you pay for. I’m currently 6 days post-op and am already in love with my new shape. Dr. Fernau is an artist, not just a surgeon. His met... More

4.8
DAPI
Review from Anonymous  |  Source: RateMDs  |  Mar 17, 2018

From the first consultation, Dr. Fernau and his staff were beyond welcoming and helpful. He made me feel like I was his only patient. He seemed genuinely excited about my procedure and getting me the results that I wanted. He's a perfectionist and won't settle for less than perfect results. He travels around the world attending conferences related to his trade. He has his finger on the pulse of the latest technologies. I lost about 100 pounds 2 years ago and my breasts were loose bags of skin and tissue. He performed a breast lift and augmentation using the PAM technique. Its only been a month, but I can't believe how good they look. The scarring is so minimal right now and they look like full, natural breasts. I couldn't be happier with Dr. Fernau or my experience. I plan to go to him again for an abdominoplasty next year. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from L.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Nov 16, 2017

Best Decision I Made - Dr Fernau is amazing. He cares so much about his patients and is truly a perfectionist. I had surgery for a tummy tuck and was so pleased with the outcome, he definitely goes over and above. He really listens and answers your questions and cares about his patients and exceeding their expectations. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking cosmetic surgery. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from T.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Apr 25, 2017

Middle Aged Female Finally Wanting Breast Implants - Pittsburgh, PA - Dr Fernau performed a perfect pain free 400cc breast augmentation and liposuction of my abdomen and hips. Beautiful results! He used Exparel and I had no pain! My clothes look great and my confidence is beaming! He is kind,confident, brilliant and really cares about my result. He did a tummy tuck and a breast lift on my girlfriend which turned out perfect! More

5.0
ReviewScraper-2016-07-24
Review from F.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Jun 30, 2016

5’5, 210 Lbs., 50, BA, 565cc HP Sientra - Pittsburgh, PA - He really takes pride in his work. Very skilled, honest and realistic. - - In order to make it easier for those like me, I have tried to put all the key words in my title to make searching for a story on a plus-size, older woman’s experience easier to find. Before I start, I just want to say thank you to all the lovely and brave ladies that have shared your stories. I’ve been reading and reading and re-reading so many. I’m finally sitting down to share mine. My story is similar to others that I have read. I never had big breasts. Especially in my 20s, I was 110 lbs. with an A cup size i.e. no boobs. I was always trying to hide my chest with ruffles on bikini tops, padded bras, and loose tops. As I gained weight, I did gain some in my cup size but mostly in my band size. At my highest weight, 274, I was a 44d with my stomach sticking out further than my boobs. A problem I still have at 210, 42c.In 2014, I had gastric bypass surgery and lost 90 lbs. While I was reading the WLS forums the inkling of PS started stirring. Tummy tucks, BAs and BLs. I was down to 184, then started gaining weight over the last 4 or 5 months, up 40 lbs. When my clothes started getting tight I started stepping on the scale and was so mad at what I gained back, I then started journaling my food and exercising – something I never did faithfully. I lost 14 lbs. and STOPPED. I’ve been at the same weight for two months! I can’t take it. I don’t know if it’s a stall – long stalls are common in WLS patients – or if it’s something else. If it’s just a weight-loss stall then I don’t know what to do. Anyway, earlier this year I started thinking about BA and researched online and found two PS that seemed to be candidates for consultations. I then spoke with my husband who was totally surprised that this was something that I’d ever want. Of course, he’d love it, lol. I told him that if PS was more prevalent and I was more confident back when I was in my 20s, I would have had it done. He totally supports whatever I want to do and has always said he loves me like I am. He is the only one who knows that I’m going to do this. I have started what I call “double-bubbling it”. I wear a padded-increase-your-cup-size-by-2 bra with an underwire regular bra on top that is a cup size larger than what I am. It’s ridiculous, but what I need to do to start transitioning into my after-BA body without it being too noticeable. I was so nervous to make that call to set-up my first consultation. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from T.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  May 29, 2016

Middle Aged Female Finally Wanting Breast Implants - Pittsburgh, PA - Dr Fernau is amazing. Perfectionist. Brilliant. Kind. He really cares! He has a great staff. His up to date knowledge about Exparel gave me a pain free breast augmentation! I had no down time even with lipo of my abdomen and hips. My girlfriend had a breast lift and a tummy tuck which turned out perfect. Dr Fernau is a fantastic 5 star surgeon! More

5.0
DAPI
Review from B.F.  |  Source: Google  |  May 23, 2016

Dr.Fernau performed a tummy tuck,and smart lipo of the arms,legs,and butt. Amazing Results!!! My tummy tuck scar healed as a paper thin line!, and the smart lipo areas healed significantly firm!, and much more contoured! I have had these same procedures done by another surgeon, and in comparison Dr.Fernau's work is far superior!! He is a very personable, and kind person as well! He and every member of his staff made me feel like family! Thank You Dr.Fernau! Thank You Sheila!, and Thank You Staff!...Edie,Sherry,Melinda,and Bonnie(OR Staff), Sharon,Kelly, and Leah (Front Desk Staff) More

5.0
DAPI
Review from M.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Dec 15, 2015

My Awesome Breast Augmentation - Pittsburgh, PA - With Dr. Fernau, you instantly know that he is seeing the best “you” that you can possibly be 'as he’s talking with you'. He had great suggestions and ideas on what I could do to improve my look based on my personal priorities. I had asked his opinion as to what he felt he could help me improve upon. Glad I did! I hadn't known about fat transfers before him. He pulled out materials, books, diagrams, and explained everything in detail...and there was no rushing. Sheila, the RN, is so knowledgeable, thorough, PATIENT and kind.. (AND too beautiful, lol!). I was well cared for from start to finish! More

5.0
ReviewTracker-6689115
Review from A.B.  |  Source: Vitals  |  Nov 02, 2015

I am now nearly 4 weeks post op after a full abdominoplasty with Dr. James Fernau, and could not be happier with my experience. Dr. James Fernau is a highly skilled surgeon and, perhaps just as important, has an artist's eye for the aesthetic nuance that distinguishes a great abdominplasty from a good one. After interviewing several surgeons, I chose Dr. James Fernau because it was clear that he is meticulous in the extreme. (After he explained -- in intricate detail -- what makes for a natural-looking belly button, I was his.) His staff was lovely and helpful throughout the process, the office always impeccable. The on-site operating room and after-care suite made the whole experience more comfortable and low stress. And my overnight nurse in the after-care suite was truly amazing. My physical results are beyond my expectations. Seriously, the man knows from carving out a sexy stomach. For anyone considering abdominoplasty, I will add that I have had two c-sections, and this was by far more painful and required significantly more time to recover. I had done enough research going in that my expectations were realistic; however I have heard of many people being surprised by the intensity of the aftermath and recovery time. So, just something to keep in mind if you are considering it. I have not had a moment's regret and would certainly recommend Dr. James Fernau to anyone looking for an outstanding surgeon. More

5.0
DAPI
Review from S.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Nov 02, 2015

The Entire Experience by Far Exceeded Well Beyond my Expectations - Pittsburgh, PA - Dr. James Fernau and his entire staff are just simply amazing! 5 Stars is simply not enough.I met with Dr. James Fernau for a consultation to discuss a Breast Augmentation as well as a Tummy Tuck. The consultation lasted about 2 hours. I never felt rushed and left knowing exactly what was involved and what to expect.As a mother of three, having plastic surgery is scary as I thought what happens if... The day before the surgery the surgical nurse and the anesthesiologist called me to discuss the procedure. With being so scared; after each call I felt completely reassured that everything will go smoothly and the decision I was making was the right choice. The surgery went very well. Afterwards, I stayed overnight in the suite with the nurse. She was so very sweet and caring. I never had to ask for anything as she was always on top of everything. For two days following surgery; the Doctor, the surgical nurse, my overnight nurse and my anesthesiologist all called me to check up on me. I have had a previous procedure done by another plastic surgeon so I do have something to compare Dr. James Fernau to and I must say I have never experienced a Doctor and his entire staff that is so caring.Would I recommend Dr. James Fernau? Absolutely! The entire experience by far exceeded well beyond my expectations. More

5.0
Review from K.  |  Source: Office Visit  |  May 28, 2015

Very friendly and super helpful office staff!!! Dr. Fernau takes time to explain and is very good about making sure you don’t feel rushed and can ask questions. I am pleased with the result so far and am still healing for Breast Augmentation and Tummy Tuck. I would recommend him to a friend without reservations. GREAT EXPERIENCE! More

5.0
ReviewScraper-2015-09-03
Review from S.  |  Source: RealSelf  |  Jan 05, 2014

Mama's Turn! - Pittsburgh, PA - Ready to have a partial tummy tuck with aqua lipo and fat grafting. I'm 40 years old with a 11 yr. old and also a 19 yr. old. Tired of my tummy having to be hidden - always. :( Don't want the perfect tummy... Just want the pouch to go far, far away. I'm nervous about the recovery period. I work a desk job full-time... Live in a 2-story house w/the bathroom only on the top floor. I've had gall bladder surgery this past May & that was a couple weeks to recover - so REALLY scared about this surgery. More

5.0
ReviewTracker-3243385
Review from B.H.  |  Source: Vitals  |  Dec 28, 2013

I searched the Pittsburgh area looking for a plastic surgeon for a tummy tuck. The two doctors that I interviewed did not leave me confident that they would do a good job. Then I found Dr. Fernau on line. His receptionist was very friendly and got me an appointment right away. On the initial visit Dr. Fernau answered all of my questions and showed me pictures of his of his work which looked great. I am now post op 3 months and I am a little sore. I had a wound that needed repaired after the tummy tuck and Dr. Fernau took care of it right away. I would recommend him to family and friends because he is a doctor who is very experienced and you leave with great results. And he and his staff were very professional More

5.0
ReviewTracker-8246615
Review from Anonymous  |  Source: RateMDs  |  Feb 10, 2013

Dr. Fernau gave me a tummy tuck about 10 weeks ago, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results! He is extremely knowledgeable and very capable of applying the newest techniques, of which I have greatly benefited. Dr. Fernau chose to use a new Brazilian technique which has kept my scar several inches shorter than the usual hip to hip incision that I was dreading. I am amazed at how my scar is fading, thanks to his laser treatment, and can't wait to get show off my flat tummy this summer. The staff at the office are also extremely competent and professional. They are very friendly and patient, and have encouraged my questions even when I have had to contact them after hours. I have actually enjoyed coming into the office because they really seem to enjoy helping people. It's a fabulous environment. Dr. Fernau has also been very professional in his demeanor, and always prompt. I look forward to my future breast augmentation, which he has offered at substantial discount! More

5.0
Review from K.  |  Source: Office Visit  |  Jan 27, 2009

In October 2008, I decided to have an abdominoplasty, (tummy tuck), done for medical reasons. I turned to the skill and professionalism of Dr. James L. Fernau, as I have done In the past. He was very thorough in all aspects of pre-surgical tests and medical information needed for surgery. Surgery went well and my post surgical care was excellent! I went from a size 12-14 to a size 8 and lost 30lbs! Because I Have has previous cosmetic surgeries by Dr. Fernau, I knew that I would be in good hands and would achieve the results that I needed. Well, my results were more than I expected!! Dr. Fernau gave me a new and tight tummy area. I went from a size 12-14 to a size 8 and lost 30lbs. It literally gave me a youthful shape again! The medical issues that I had developed, three years ago, from a renowned hospital in Cleveland, had been taken care of by Dr. Fernau as well. He gave me my life back! So, from a reconstructive and cosmetic standpoint, I was extremely pleased with everything and would recommend Dr. Fernau for any surgery without any hesitation! Pre-surgical, operative, and post operative surgical care and support was always there. Results….outstanding More

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.