Question:
Cigna vs. BCBS for Plastic Surgery?

I currently have Cigna insurance that paid for my RNY this July but have the chance to switch to Aetna BCBS the first of the year. I am hoping to get PS after my weight loss has stopped (definitely a tummy tuck & my "girls" will need a lift). Has anyone been working with either company & what kind of results are you getting? I know they have both incresed limits for RNY & I figure it will be the same for PS. Maybe I should start adding to my piggy bank just in case!    — Kathy K. (posted on October 5, 2003)

October 5, 2003
Hi Kathy, I currently am in appeal for my TT w/ Cigna. They were requring 6 months of documented treatment for rashes. I will e-mail you seperately they letter they sent during denial and everything I sent for appeal. Keep in touch with me and I will let you know the outcome.
   — Stephanie B.

October 5, 2003
Hi Kathy: I'm waiting to hear about my request for a tummy tuck from BC. I hope to hear this week or next at the latest. Email then if you want, and I'll let you know. In the meantime, why don't you consider joining the yahoo plastic surgery group? It's a pretty hopping group, and if you ask this question there I bet you'll get a more definitive response. Good luck with your approval. S
   — sherry hedgecock

October 10, 2003
The key for approval is proving MEDICALLY NECESSARY. I had my Full tummy tuck w/muscle repair on July 8th and BC/BS of Florida HMO covered 100%. Well, I had to pay the co-pay for the night stay in the hospital. Insurance companies can DOCUMENTATION as proof. I visited the chiropractor 4 times and got documentation of lower back pain. I saw my PCP for diagnosis and treatment for rash on the pubic line caused from hanging skin. My Plastic Surgeon took photos of my hanging skin hanging below the pubic line. Basically that's it! You gotta have that documentation. If you have the first case of the slightest rash, go to the doctor and get documented. Complain of lower back pain and go see a chiropractor.....get those documentations. You gotta do your homework if you want to be it paid for. Jeanette
   — Jeanette D.