Question:
Men - Have any men had insurance approve a breast reduction?

My husband had a RNY about 3 years ago. Last year he had a panni - BC/BS of AL would not approve it even though he had alot of infection problems and the plastic surgeon and his PCP sent letters. We ended up paying for it ourselves (now I wish we would have appealed though-wish I had known about this site). Anyway, he now is looking into having a breast reduction (he has alot of loose skin in his chest area). Has anyone had insurance (specifically BC/BS) approve this? He does have back problems which may be aggravated by the excess skin. Any comments would be appreciated.    — Daphne S. (posted on February 28, 2002)

February 28, 2002
I am not a man, but if I were you I would fight for the surgery. If Blue Cross of Michigan covered my breast reduction because of back problems and infections, I don't see why Blue Cross in AL would be such a pain in the butt. And personally, I would try to find out if they had covered women's reductions...because if they do and they wont just because someone is a man, that is gender discrimination in my book. Good LUck
   — Michelle H.

February 28, 2002
BC/BS of AL has been a total pain with my pursuit of reconstructive surgery. I don't have any answers for you, but I can empathize and wish you well!
   — [Deactivated Member]

February 28, 2002
Yes I had coverage for breast reduction back in 1989 which was 12 years before my WLS. I had Prudential and NYS Medicaid at the time. I think I should have more reduction but now I have Blue Choice Option and Medicaid and I'll doubt I'll be able to get the surgery covered again.
   — Danmark