BCBS Fep and getting approval for TT & BL Anyone??

Ok, so I was just wondering if it was even possible to get a tt and bl done through my insurance.  If you have any tips or advice please send it my way.  I don't have the cash and will not finance this because I feel it might put a strain on the family.  

I was also wondering what the recommended waiting period was before getting these procedures.

Insurance these days, are getting pretty tight with paying for some of the reconstructive work that is needed after surgery.  I would suggest documenting every rash, physician visit and medications for the rashes and problems while you are losing your weight.  You may still get denied, especially in this environment.

As far as a waiting period, that will be up to you and the PS that you choose.  Personally I waited until I lost my weight plus 4 months.  I have still kept the weight off at 5 years post op and am 3 years from PS.  You are still new to the weight loss  lifestyle.  When it becomes a habit and you are at your goal then look into continuing this journey!  Good luck to you!

Whether or not plastics are covered is policy specific more so than carrier specific.  To find out what your policy covers, read your policy (contact HR if you don't have it).  Once you read through it, call the carrier and confirm, then ask what they require in terms of documentation.  The most common procedure covered is the panni and if you want a tummy tuck or lbl, you'd pay the difference.

As far as waiting, most ps' want you to be at a stable weight for at least 6 months.  I chose to wait until I was a year at a stable weight.  

I also have BCBS FEP.  I had my panni removed and the insurance paid for it, but they won't pay for anything else.

The Dr's office definitely needs to know how to bill it and to document.  I called the insurance company and they definitely say they "don't pay for plastic surgery because of weight loss"... BUT - if you had WLS, then it seems they'll pay.  I also figured out that FEP BCBS goes by the rules of BCBS in the state you are in... so it may be different in TX than it is in MI.

My procedure was denied 2 times before they paid it.  The Dr's office needs to be persistent (and anesthesia office too). 

 I had BC&BS of Massachusetts and they paid for tummy tuck  I wanted extended so I had a $3500 out of pocket expense and they paid for  my breast reduction and lift w/ o any out of pocket costs.  I ran with the ball.. I probably would have never had it done if insurance didn't cover it.. I truly am Blessed !

Best Wishes..
P.S.
I am so happy with the results I am now saving for a face and neck lift... I plan to do it in a few years..So don't ever give up.. ya never know what life will bring your way..Good Luck !!

Natalie

I have FEP BC-BS and they didn't pay for anything. I think Jodi's right, they go by the state, even though it's a federal policy. My policy states that it will cover panni removal and breast lift, but only if you can prove it's medically necessary. I didn't have enough of a hanging panni to qualify, an no rashes.