Meet Dr. Cassileth's team of caring, experienced professionals

Sonya Pasamonte
Practice Director, Lisa B. Cassileth, MD, Inc.

"As a former dancer, I have always been an advocate of staying healthy and fit. I love working for a cosmetic surgery practice because I can help patients get the information they need to change their lives and enhance their self-confidence. This is a wonderful place to work. In addition to being a skilled surgeon, Dr. Cassileth has a graceful bedside manner that invariably makes our patients feel very comfortable. Her warm and caring attitude with patients and staff alike makes us feel like one big happy family."

With over 10 years of experience in the medical industry, Sonya is passionate about delivering the highest quality patient experience.  As a recipient of cosmetic surgery herself, Sonya understands the questions and concerns associated with your surgery decisions.
 
Sonya plays a very valuable role here at Dr. Cassileth's office. Her warm and welcoming manner will make you feel at ease as she provides practical information about the coordination of your care. During your first visit, after your consultation with Dr. Cassileth, Sonya will meet with you to discuss scheduling, logistics, concierge services, and finances. She will serve as an essential guide and resource throughout your treatment.
 
Raised in the UK, Sonya graduated from the University of London and spent over a decade traveling the world as a modern dancer and choreographer. After the birth of her son, she settled in Los Angeles and was drawn to the world of aesthetic surgery.

Wendy Cassileth
Director, Cassileth Cosmetic Medicine

"I love helping people look years younger and feel more beautiful than they ever thought possible."

Wendy has a background in art and fashion. She was the fashion editor of SHAPE magazine, the director of an art gallery, and produced and directed television series and film. When you consider that people are the ultimate visual medium, Wendy's diverse background in visual arts makes her a great fit for her role as Director of Cassileth Cosmetic Medicine.  
  
In the warm, family atmosphere of CCM, Wendy is free to pursue her dedication to helping others. She truly cares about the lives of the patients she works with, and thoroughly enjoys helping them look their best and achieve their goals and dreams.

Kristin Polega, PA-C
Physician's Assistant – Lisa B. Cassileth, MD, Inc.

“I love being a part of a patient’s transformation. Not only a part of their physical appearance but what it does to their soul, their confidence and how they walk a little taller with a self-assured smile. It’s really not all about the outer beauty, it is about being able to help a patient realize her inner beauty was there all along.” 

As a Certified Physician Assistant, Kristin is licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. Her responsibilities include conducting physical exams, ordering tests, assisting in surgery, and writing prescriptions. Kristin has been working closely with Dr. Cassileth since 2007. She plays a critical support role in pre- and post-operative care, and is available to address your questions and concerns about surgery.

Kristin has a Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine. She received most of her surgical training at Yale Hospital in Connecticut, the primary teaching hospital of the Yale School of Medicine.

Amber Bickman, MA
Medical Assistant – Lisa B. Cassileth, MD, Inc.

“I am very fortunate to work around such genuine and talented people. I love seeing the transformation in patient, whether it is physical or emotional!”

Amber has almost a decade of experience in caring for patients in an aesthetic setting. Amber grew up in Orange County where she started her career as a certified medical assistant. She is responsible for helping with pre- and post-op care of surgical patients.  Amber is excited to continue her plastic surgery experience here at Dr. Cassileth’s practice. 

Shea Kaplan, PA-C
Physician's Assistant – Cassileth Cosmetic Medicine

"My goal is to help you achieve a look that's refined and youthful…one that makes you feel truly amazing."

Shea combines more than a decade of experience with exceptional aesthetic skill and a truly caring personality. She specializes in the latest techniques and proven therapies in facial rejuvenation, anti-aging, and body contouring. She'll help you look younger and more beautiful — without ever looking "done."

Shea completed her medical training at Touro College in New York, where she was born and raised. She has specialized training in dermatology, and experience in family, internal and critical care medicine. She frequently attends aesthetic seminars and advanced training courses to further her knowledge and craft. Prior to earning her medical degree, Shea was a model and actor.

Patty Blackwood
Medical Biller

"I really love my job because it's different every day. I work closely with our patient accounts until I am certain that all of the right documentation is in place. There's a required list of things I have to do: track down patients' medical histories, get supporting documentation from doctors and other medical-related practitioners they've formerly seen, ensure that the right release forms are signed, and much more. It's gratifying to assist patients and see their relief when everything works out."

Patty is an amazing liaison between our patients and their insurance companies. She does the labor-intensive work of obtaining pre-certifications, pre-authorizations, and handling appeals. Prior to coming to our practice, Patty spent 14 years in finance and insurance-related work. Patty is invaluable to our patients – tracking down and staying on top of the documents needed to ensure that procedures are covered by insurance.

Mania Johnson
Medical Biller

"As a licensed foster parent with a strong desire to help others, I can relate to our patients' personal needs and concerns. My goal is to help each patient gain a clear understanding of their healthcare benefits, and in doing so, help alleviate the stress of making medical treatment decisions."

With over 16 years in Medical Billing, Mania brings a wealth of experience to Dr. Cassileth's practice. Her knowledge of various healthcare benefit plans and the amounts/types of coverage that each provides helps her offer patients essential insights. Mania handles the details and nuances of her job with extreme skill — always remembering that there is a patient's personal experience behind the numbers.

Lauren Somers
Front Office Concierge

"I'm so fortunate to have a job where I enjoy going to work every day. I love sharing my positive outlook and making others feel good about themselves."

Lauren has a degree in Women's Studies from the University of Arizona. She has a passion for skin care and cosmetics, and worked in the dermatology field in Fairfax, Virginia, where she was born and raised. Lauren is thrilled to be working in a Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery office. She has proven to be a wonderful addition to Dr. Cassileth's staff, providing a consistently positive and helpful presence to both patients and her colleagues.

Monica Bowen
Front Office Concierge

"Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art. I believe Dr. Cassileth is the artist and we are her canvas."

Intrigued by the glitz & glamour of Hollywood, our Front Office Concierge, Monica, migrated west to utilize her degree and pursue a career in the beauty industry. Leaving behind her family (pets) and friends in Florida, Monica embarked on a new adventure on the beaches of sunny California. Her post collegiate career began as a Personal Assistant, where she organized many presidential functions, including the Democratic National Convention, the 2008 Presidential Debates and Inauguration, as well as President Clinton's Global Initiative and various awards shows.
Monica's impeccable eye for detail and passion for aesthetics inspired her to launch a career in salon and med-spa management. Working with numerous high profile celebrities, Monica knows the importance of keeping up with ever-evolving trends. Additionally, her impressive administrative skills and southern charm make her the ideal front office concierge. This small town girl is thrilled to be working where her true passion lays, in aesthetic medicine. Monica enjoys interacting with our patients and witnessing their transformation to a healthier, happier, refresher version of themselves.