Question:
panniculectomy

ho w can one get the panniculectomy approved by insurance.. I feel so ugly there , i wake up at night thinking about it ..:( depressed, it isn't as much as some ladies, but it still is depressing me ...    — Reelbaby (posted on December 1, 2007)

December 1, 2007
I would be interested in knowing this too! Also, I would like to know which insurance companies are more likely to pay.
   — tonjasm

December 1, 2007
You have my sympathy!!! I had to wait 4 years until I finally had enough money to pay for it myself. My mother in law was able to get BC of CA to pay for her's. Her PCP and her surgeon helped with the process of getting it approved. You will not believe how happy you will be when it is gone.
   — Carlyn M.

December 1, 2007
I had my PCP document when I went for visits that I was having trouble with rashes and infections and back pain from carrying the extra weight of the skin. She prescribed nystatin which is a powder for the rashes. I had about 1 1/2 yrs of documentation. If there is a medical need the insurance most likely will pay. also it should be coed as resconstructive surgery and not cosmetic, as most insurance companies do not pay for cosmetic surgery. I have Aetna insurance and they paid for mine. I love the new me! Good luck!
   — toula21

December 2, 2007
You don't say who you are or when you had surgery or how much you have lost. With the small amount of information you give, you really can't get an answer. You cannot "GET" insurance to do anything they are not contracted to do. If your insurance does not cover it, they won't do it. It is a contract, not a negotiation. It has to usually be for medical reason. Skin rashes, bleeding, ulcers, deterioration of the skin in the areas. If you get these, then document then with your PCM and keep a log. Then check with your insurance and see what is available to you. I had one, at the request of my GYN as a medical necessity. I fought one carrier for it and lost, and then we signed up with my husbands plan and got approved the first time. In regard to depression, please get some treatment for that, and try seeing the glass as half full not half empty. When we opt for surgery and lose the weight, it comes with a saggy consequence and good health benefits. We tortured our bodies with obesity and we have to live with that. Don't beat yourself up over it or throw yourself into depression. My theighs are like charpea puppies, but they are mine, and I am healthier than I have ever been. My arms sag but my heart sings because I am healthy and grateful. I don't want the saggy skin, but I will take it over obesity. Also, just a clue, but removing all that skin won't change depression. I find that when you are not satisfied with yourself, and you fix yourself, you find something else to bother you. Spandex works wonders and a good attitude is irreplaceable. Take care. Patricia P.
   — Patricia P