“Can a tummy tuck be covered by insurance?” is one of the first concerns many of our patients ask. Yes and no are the answers to this question. A belly tuck is frequently just a cosmetic treatment, and most insurance policies do not cover it. However, if you are suffering from rashes or skin infections, the operation becomes a medical necessity. In this instance, you might be able to acquire insurance to cover some of the costs of your belly tuck.
You might wonder why only portion of the costs are covered. There are two steps to a tummy tuck. To achieve a smooth contour, the first procedure is strengthening the underlying abdominal muscles. The second phase is eliminating the extra skin and tightening the remaining skin over your midsection. When a procedure is medically necessary, insurance will pay the second portion of the surgery, as eliminating excess skin is vital to avoid rashes and infections.
How can I get my insurance to pay for a tummy tuck?
Make an appointment with your primary care provider. Have a routine physical examination and inform your doctor of any side symptoms your stomach may be experiencing. Your health insurance provider may be ready to grant coverage if there is a health concern that can be connected to the necessity for a belly tuck.
Can a tummy tuck be medically necessary?
Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that is not always medically essential. BCBSNC does not cover services or procedures that are not medically required.
How do you qualify for a Panniculectomy?
What kind of people are ideal candidates for a panniculectomy?
- You experience rashes or infections underneath the hanging fold of skin that are reoccurring or persistent.
Does insurance pay for tummy tuck after C section?
Pregnancy, weight increase, weight loss, and age can cause changes in the abdomen. The following are some of the most common causes for getting a stomach tuck (abdominoplasty) or mini-tummy tuck:
Will insurance cover tummy tucks?
Insurance normally does not cover a stomach tuck, but it may cover a panniculectomy (removal of an overhanging “apron” of lower abdominal skin) if you meet specific insurance plan conditions. Please consult the panniculectomy page for further information on insurance coverage.
What is a 360 tummy tuck?
A stomach tuck 360 usually includes a tummy tuck (reduction of extra skin and fat) as well as flank and back liposuction. Lipo 360 only involves liposuction of the abdomen, hips, flanks, and back and excludes the removal of superfluous skin from the front.
How much does it cost for a tummy tuck?
What is the price of a belly tuck? The overall cost of an abdominoplasty is estimated to be between $15,000 and $20,000 (including hospital, anesthesiologist, and surgeon’s expenses). Body lifting can cost anywhere between $26,000 and $29,500.
Is Panniculectomy covered by insurance?
- After decreasing weight, panniculectomies and tummy tucks are done to remove extra skin around the lower stomach.
- A panniculectomy is considered a medical need after a large amount of weight loss, but a stomach tuck is a cosmetic treatment.
Safety
- Pain and numbness are common side effects of both surgeries. Scarring is also a possibility, though it will fade over several months.
- Infection, severe pain and numbness, and bleeding are all rare consequences.
Convenience
- Both treatments are invasive surgeries that necessitate extensive planning and post-operative care.
- Finding a board-certified surgeon with substantial experience in each treatment is critical.
Cost
- A panniculectomy is more expensive than a stomach tuck, although medical insurance generally covers treatment. The price tag can range from $8,000 to $15,000, without including anesthesia and other fees.
- The cost of a belly tuck is less, but it is not covered by insurance. The average cost of this elective treatment is $6,200.
Efficacy
- Tummy tucks and panniculectomies have equal success rates. The objective is to decrease weight prior to surgery, as weight maintenance is critical to the success of your treatment.