I need an umbilical hernia and abdominal muscle repair, and I would like to get a tummy tuck at the same time. I am pretty sure that my health insurance will cover the hernia repair. Is it possible for me to just pay the additional costs out of pocket for the tummy tuck portion of the surgery? Is this feasable? Would most surgeons agree to this? Thanks in advance for your insight!
Yes. It is possible to undergo an umbilical hernia repair and abdominoplasty at the same time. Most insurance plans will cover the umbilical hernia repair; however, they will not cover the abdominoplasty. You should check with your plastic surgeon to see if they accept insurance payments or will assist you in billing your insurance.
In my practice, I just offer the hernia repair as part of the tummy tuck operation. It is very difficult to get approval for just the hernia repair. Once there is a cosmetic component, the insurance company will tend to deny it. The only saving any way will be the portion of the anasthesia and surgery center fees related to the hernia repair. This is minimal any way.
Good luck!
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