Just got told NO PS accepts insurance

 Ok so a receptionist for Dr. Reynolds' office in El Paso, Tx gave a blanket statement that NO Plastic surgeons are accepting insurance. I know better than that... however I didn't have any idea that it would be this hard to locate a PS who does accept insurance, specifically Tri-Care.

I'm in the process of documenting the rashes and blisters from the rubbing skin. My PCM (Primary Care Manager) is new to the area and wasn't even sure how to go about getting the PS process started, so I thought I'd dig around to help.

Has anyone in the New Mexico/Western Texas area had PS through Tri Care? My PCM is about 99% sure it'll be approved, but I don't want to go into this blind and would like some feed back on PS in the area. 

I'm the kind of person *****searches something til they're blue in the face before jumping in. When I first had WLS I wasn't thinking I'd want or need PS... however the chronic belly button issues (affectionately named Smell Belly Button syndrome) and the blisters/chaffing on my inner thighs and labia have just rubbed me the wrong way (hehe) 

Any help, insite, reveiws etc are most welcome and appreciated. I see my PCM April 1st (bad joke? lol) about officially getting the ball rolling 

I used to know that smelly belly button - I'm so thankful my LBL took care of that problem.

You might want to use your research skills and contact your health insurance to find out what reconstruction they cover, what you will need to get approval and a list of plastic surgeons who are in the system. You can also ask them what to do to get reimbursed if you pay out of pocket for surgery. In addition, take some time and read back through older posts here - you might miss some helpful info if you don't.

Good luck

Thanks for your input Skylark 

I did manage to find a list of PS on my insurance's website. Got three or so of them searched, read reviews etc. I also looked into the "stipulations" of what surgeries Tri-Care will cover, and as long as they're deemed medically neccessary, then they're a go.

We'll know shortly :o) I see my Primary Doc on Friday and get the referal going. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

 I'm in the same frame of mind. I just want the smelly belly button syndrome gone lol

Hope all goes smoothly for ya!

Hi Tammy,

My insurance covers the panni removal and im just awaiting the surgery date.  Did you find a big difference in or after the surgery?  im more concerned about looking like more of a muffin once done...did it help even a lil with the mons area?  Thats another issue i have....hope all is well

betsy

Gotta say I don't like insurance (they pre-approved 3 surgeries for me in the past year, then sent letters asking for the money back after I rendered the services and postop care.)

I dont like them but I accept most plans on an out-of-network basis.  It helps patients save a few thousand dollars in most cases.

Oh and Tri-care (my "Wonderful insurance") is among the worst from what I've heard through Docs. lol I understand why some, such as yourself, don't like dealing with them. They're crooked and cheap... but having said that, the blanket statement "No Plastic Surgeon accepts insurance" is a little over the top. I expect more from a professional's office :o)

You Sir, are apparently the exception to the rule and I'm grateful there are Docs who accept insurances... despite the headaches they cause.