Question:
Can previous hernia surgery be an advantage to getting a tummy tuck?

I have had numerous pelvic surgeries, which have left what I call, a complete set of "railroad" tracks in that area. Hysterectomy, c-sect, surgery to clear up endometreosis, and a hernia repair. The hernia was considered one of the largest my surgeon had seen, and there was a large mesh placed. My Q is, does anyone know if having that large mesh will be an advantage to me when I decide to go for a TT? (Haven't made that decision yet) Will having all those "railroad" tracks be an advantage or a hinderance in me getting an insurance approval? I'm thinking of asking the Drs who performed these surgeries to give me reports stating that the overhanging belly is detrimental to these scars and to the mesh. I was obese when all of these surgeries were perfomed. Am I making sense? Has anyone every heard of doing this before? Thanks you! :-)    — KellyJeanB (posted on July 17, 2004)

July 18, 2004
Great question. I also have had many tummy surgeries. 2 c-sections, 1 in each direction, gallblader, internal tubaligation, wls, and recent hernia repair. By now you would think the tummy skin would never mend back together. All this while obese also and over past 19 years. My Ins denied my TT this month so trying to find good reasons for an appeal. Thanx for asking it. Patricia 9-30-03 314/172 past goal!!!
   — pateblkbrn

July 19, 2004
Thanks Patricia, unfortunately it doesn't look like anyone has an answer to this one for me. :-(
   — KellyJeanB

July 19, 2004
Hello- I have also had numerous surgeries- 2 c- sections, galbladder removal, hernia repair, gastric bypass. I am recovering now from my second hernia surgery (5/04). Without any documentation of rashes or any other medical reason for the TT- the PS would not even consider putting in a claim. So for me, (BCBS) the answer is no- it does not help with the process. Jeanne -121lbs
   — J O.

July 23, 2004
It helps having a hernia big time IF your surgeon is boarded in plastic and general surgery and is willing to do the surgery. I personally deduct half the TT fee if the hernia repair is approved, and the overnight stay plus part of the O.R. and anesthesia fee is also covered. All these help directly lower your cost.
   — DrL

July 23, 2004
Oops...wanted to also add...having had a successful repair in the PAST that is no longer causing you a problem may or may not help. Mesh removal may be needed, and this is often covered although to a lesser degree. Again, this may help some with OR, anestehsia, and overnight stay bills.
   — DrL