Question:
Does Blue Cross Personal Choice cover the Plastic Surgery

   — Pamedic13 (posted on December 27, 2004)

December 28, 2004
I do not know about BCBS PC but my experience with BCBS in general is that if there isn't a disease that it will fix or significantly improve they won't pay for any plastics work. I did get my full extended abdominoplasty, done in 2 stages, covered by BCBS United of WI, but only because I have a 7-8 year history of severe low back problems which have been documented by neurologists, orthopedist's and MRI's. I have used oral steroids, anti-inflammatory meds, epidural steroid injections in the spine to manage the condition. I was able to build my case that this was just another way to manage the condition. It would not make my crappy disc's go away but getting whatever pressure off of them I could had to help. They insisted on an orthopedic evaluation and recommendation before they approved it. The neurologist's letter wasn't good enough. They wanted to know that they was something mechanical being caused by the excess skin and that removing it would allow that condition to improve. The ortho wrote a bang up letter and I got my approval. However, without the low back problems I did not stand a chance as I have never had one skin issue with the panni, even when I was 442 lbs. It was the first time in my life I was glad I had a crappy back. I had 19 lbs of skin removed with the first stage and even though it hung below my privates etc, I am sure it would not have been enough for them to approve. Good Luck! It certainly is worth a try and worth fighting for, but go in with your eyes open. BCBS love paperwork, so bury them with lots of documented problems and keep on them.
   — zoedogcbr

December 28, 2004
my BCBS covered a panniculectomy with no history of rashes or back pain the only info they wanted was PHOTOS! aaaaahhhhhh!!!! How horrifying to know some one at BCBS has seen nude photos of mein all my wrinkly & hanging skin glory. My surgeon had to take pictures of my panni and send them in. I think that alone was the worst part of the whole thing. I paid the difference out of pocket to get a Belt lipectomy and brachioplasyt and am self paying for my thighs next year if I can raise the money.
   — **willow**