Question:
HMO-Kaiser Thigh Plasty surgery

Has anyone had this surgery covered by Kaiser So. Cal, or have heard of someone having it covered? I have handfuls of left over skin on my upper thighs. I have already had a tummy tuck and breast reduction/lift with Kaiser. I thought that I could live with these thighs, but they are heavy and I still get rashes in the folds. I also have knee problems. Thanks!    — Allison4wls (posted on March 6, 2007)

March 6, 2007
The only thing I was told that was covered by Kaiser was the panniculectomy. But if you have rashes it might be considered medically necessary. Check with the Doctor and have it documented everytime a rash occurs. Hope this helps. Seanna
   — seanna

March 6, 2007
I wasn't aware that Kaiser offered any kind of plastic surgery after bypass. Please tell me how you were able to get that done? I have lost 75 pounds, 35 of which was after surgery. I know I'm going to need something for all the extra skin on my stomach. I will need a breast reduction because the surgeon doesn't think weight loss will be enough to relieve my back pain. Please email me and tell me how you were able to get Kaiser to let you have your surgeries?
   — trenansac

March 6, 2007
You will havew to checkyour specific Kaiser policy- plastic surgery is usually rare with Kaiser for something like this and the Co. policy actually states it will not be covered after bariatric surgery.
   — dabby

March 7, 2007
Allison, I have never heard of theighs being covered by insurance at all. All the plastic surgeons I have spoken to say the same thing, no coverage. Sorry. I have my flappy theighs, but I will be honest with you, you will still have saggy knees and the surgery is not as helpful as you might thing. I think of my theighs as my charpea puppies, I named them Mut and Jeff. My husband loves me the way I am, and I did have a tt, and am glad that I did, but I am not sure I want any more surgery than that. Spandex and 3/4 length sleevs do fine for me. I have very flappy arms, but I am so thankful for the weight loss, I am doing fine with what I have. Be thankful for what you have. They make hip and theigh spandex panties you can buy and that may help you quite a bit. I wish you well, but I am afraid that you will have to pay for this surgery if you want it. Take care, Patricia P
   — Patricia P