Question:
Does anyone know if Medicare pays for a tummy tuck?

Does anyone know if Medicare pays for a tummy tuck ? I know it probably doesn't pay for the arms to be fixed, but how much would the tummy and or arms cost if self pay if Medicare doesn't help pay. I'm from North Carolina. Thanks so much for your answers in advance,\.    — tatterpuddin (posted on July 9, 2005)

July 9, 2005
Medicare did pay for my tummy tuck, My plastic surgeon was Dr. Merril in Suffolk, VA. He told me we need to have all the i's doted and t's cross since medicare doesn't preapprove. He took excellent pics and had letters from my reg. Dr. and from my Orthapedic Dr. clearly stating why I needed to have this done. This way he had everythng on hand if my claim was denied. He removed 26.2 lbs in tummy tuck and then 5 months later I had thigh reduction, which he took new pics since you could not see my thighs before. that was another 6lbs off. Medicare paid for it all, with no fight. But be sure you have all the documentation in your records. They will not pay for a breast reduction, backlift or arms. Good luck.
   — dee145

July 9, 2005
I met a lady whose arms had been done, and medicare paid.
   — Julie S.

July 10, 2005
Medicare does pay for removal of excess skin and fat of the lower abdomen for a symptomatic patient. The problem with medicare from physician standpoint is that there is typically no pre-approval. So, after the surgery medicare can decide that they won't pay, despite there being true medical indications. There is a risk that the patient will get stuck paying the hospital bill. Sincerely, Joshua Kreithen, M.D. Sarasota - Bradenton, Florida lakewoodranchplasticsurgery.com
   — Joshua Kreithen, M.D.