Question:
Has anyone's insurance every approved a tummy tuck

Hello everyone! I know abdominoplasty is considered strictly cosmetic, however, I was wondering if anyone has ever been successful getting their insurance carrier to cover it. After losing 110 lbs, I find that all that "extra" overhang is not only unattractive, but uncomfortable as well, especially during the summer. Cheryl    — cheryl W. (posted on April 6, 2003)

April 6, 2003
My TT was covered, because I was having an additional abdominal surgery at the same time...insurance allowed it because I was going to be already there. Have a Sparkling Day!! ~CAE~
   — Mustang

April 6, 2003
Both my primary (Acordia) and secondary (CIGNA PPO) providers approved my panniculectomy AND brachioplasty (almost unheard of). These are generally not considered "cosmetic" procedures after massive weight loss. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons considers this type of surgery to be "reconstructive". A letter to your insurance provider from a board-certified plastic surgeon with an accompanying letter of medical necessity and photographs should get you an approval. If not, then don't give up....all insurance providers have a process for filing appeals. Don't stop fighting for what you need and deserve :-)
   — Diana T.

April 6, 2003
I had BCBS which approved me for an adominoplasy. I was unable to get it and then had hte admonoplasty reapproved by Atena. BUT - Atena used 'abdominoplasy' interchangeable with panniculectomy - bascically they approved for all the skin to be removed. If I had wanted the 'full' abdominalplasty (muscles) I would have had to pay extra. With BCBS I did have to appeal to level two.
   — star .

April 6, 2003
My BCBS (Empire Blue) approved my panniculectomy along with hernia repair. However, my surgeon had to speak with the doctor at Blue Cross - they originally denied it as cosmetic and not medically necessary. But Blue Cross called the surgeon's office and left the doctor's name and mumber for my surgeon to call to try to prove medical necessity. Blue Cross absolutely would not pay for abdominoplasty for me. I had the panniculectomy almost 9 weeks ago and I've been very pleased. I no longer have a belly button but that's ok - I don't have yeast rashes either.
   — Patty_Butler

April 7, 2003
I just got out of the hospital today. My TT was approved faster than my WLS. Don't give up!!Good Lux
   — Robert L.