panniculectomy surgery

Hello,

I am just now starting my plastic surgery journey.  I went to see my Family doctor today in regards to some acute dermatitis and sores. She recommended that I see a surgeon in regards to a panniculectomy. I scheduled several apts. I called my insurance company and was told it was covered if it was medically necessary and the weight has been off for atleast a year. I was wondering, should i obtain a letter from my referring doctor before I go to the appointment with the plastic surgeon? Is there any advise on what I should have put in the letter?

Thanks

YES i WOULD TAKE ALL YOU CAN GET! I TOOK DATES FROM DRS. AND ALSO THE DR TOOK PITURES OF OLD BOIL SCARS  RASHES ETC.ALL IS BEST IN MY OPINION. MY WORST THING UNDER NEATH WAS BOILS, AND I JUST HAD A PANNI ONLY AND AM HAPPY  SO FAR SO GOOD.  GOOD LUCK TO YOU AND THE REASON I SAY SAY IS GET ALL YOU CAN IS BECAUSE I HEAR OF ALOT OF DENIALS. CONGRATS ON YOUR WEIGHT LOSS!!
DENISE

Since you are seeing more than one surgeon you might want to wait and have your PCP write the letter to the surgeon you decide to use.  But the letter may not be necessary -- the surgeon may request a copy of your records or have your PCP submit copies of your records to insurance in support of medical necessity.

Red

Note most insurance companies require three months of you PCP noting rashes or other health issues in your medical record along with pescriptions for creams etc., and good to have the receipt that you filled the pescription if needed.  Pictures, if they help show the medical condition are a plus but usually not necessary.  Be careful when refereing to the platic surgeon to ensure the medical condition is stressed and it is not cosmedic, which is typically what the insurance company will be looking for as opposed to medically necessary.

Jim Randall