PLASTIC SURGERY

Hey to all!!! Long time no posts, just been busy with my life! (New Life!! woohoo!!) Anyways, a quick question.... I am getting to the point where I am thinking alot about having all this excess & disgusting skin taken OFF!! I am in Oklahoma & I was wondering if anyone had tried to get a tummy tuck &/or breast lift paid for with their insurance?? I have heard several rumors, that some insurances will pay for it after weight loss surgery, but I have never heard a definite YES or NO. So I thought I would ask here & see if you guys could help me to know where to start?? Thanks in advance!! Sheryn starting weight 348#/I now weigh 155#/down 193# & still losing!! WOO HOO

Sheryn, I've only heard of instances of insurance covering plastic surgery if it's medically necessary and well documented. If the excess skin interferes w/ personal hygiene; causes skin breakdown or rashes/fungus; causes muscle pain or separation, etc... Otherwise, it's considered cosmetic surgery and has to be paid for out of pocket. My mother works for BCBS in Texas and has seen this company turn down pt's for breast reductions even though the required documentation and pictures they submit clearly show how much the surgery is needed. Check with your doctor's or surgeon's office and let them inquire to your insurance company. NEVER deal directly with an insurance company re: most matters. Allow your doctor to do this. He knows what the insurance company will require in order for him to get paid! Good Luck!

Sheryn, Wow - you have done great with your weight loss! I am having plastic sugery (a lower body lift) on 8/30. I was approved by my insurance company (Aetna). I have chosen a surgeon who is out of network, so I will still have some cost to cover. I had documentation of rashes and prescriptions from my pcp. I also had documenation from a chiropractor for my back pain. If you have any problems from the excess skin, make sure you are getting them documented. I don't believe you'll have much success in getting approval without the documentation. Take care, Mary

I'm having a panniculectomy on Sept 25. Mine was deemed medically necessary due to rashes, back pain, etc. Go to your primary care doc and start having him chart that you are having medical problems related to the pannus and then get a referral to a plastic surgeon and have them submit to your insurance company for prior approval. Good luck, jean