Question:
How does the average Joe afford it?

I carry just about ALL of my weight below the waist. I already KNOW that I will have hanging skin on my thighs. I see all these people having tummy tucks and breast lifts and body lifts...If insurance doesn't pay, how does one afford a $20,000 plastic surgery operation? Financing? 2nd Mortgage on the house? Bank Robbery? =P    — Brenda S. (posted on June 28, 2001)

June 28, 2001
There are lending companies that specialize in financing surgery. 2nd mortgages, signature loans, borrowing from 401-K, life insurance, cafeteria plans, etc. It is expensive, but costs differ by surgeon and geographic area. So fight as much as you can to have it approved as reconstructive surgery. That's where I am now. There are criteria posted on today's message board on abdominoplasty as being medically necessary. So far, I have my abdominoplasty covered. I have had to utilize an attorney, so until it becomes a case of legal vs. surgical fees, I will press on for arms and thighs. Best of luck to you.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 28, 2001
I actually will not have to have plastic surgery- if I do it will be after having trying to have a few kids, then I'll be able to see what (if at all) I really need done. Both my husband and myself have discussed the fact that we are tired of my surgeries (had a breast reduction in 93) Any way, if you did pay out of pocket, I would think plastic surgery would be discounted, the same as WLS is for some.... Do you not have any insurance? In some cases documentation of the need for surgery is as easy as WLS. You just need proof of need. If your skin folds cause problems (yeast infections etc.) as long as you document, and prove need, the insurance company should pay.
   — Karen R.

June 29, 2001
I agree, most insurance companies will pay for the tummy tuck. It causes rashes and back pain. A lot of them will pay for the breasts to for the same reason. If the insurance co will not pay for the breasts, I will borrow from my 401K to pay for it myself. After that, no one better mention the word surgery to me for a long time!
   — [Deactivated Member]

May 28, 2003
I have been a "freak" since childhood for the shape of my body naked. Have been unable to wear shorts or a bathing suit. Currently 8 months post & looking "pretty fine" clothed, but my skin is a disater! Need more info. on getting insurance coverage for total body lift...arms, thighs, butt, belly. I just had hernia surgery so this may aid in getting belly "fixed." I am also supossed to lose job in the next yr. so I need to "fight" before I lose insurance as my husband is unemployed. I have to hurry! Help!
   — Ann M.