Will insurance cover the filing of a bone spur on my nose? If not, how much does it usually cost? (Photo)

Question

I have bone spur on my nose from a break that happened about 10 years ago. The bone spur was never an issue in the beginning but it has grown and now causes alot of pain when I wear glasses which is every day. I don't want to change anything about my nose other than the bone spur so that I may be able to wear my glasses comfortably. It also causes that area to become red and sometimes break open in what looks to be a small pressure ulcer. I'd just like to not have that anymore it's painful.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.Insurance usually doesn't cover plastic surgery. The harmony between facial parts makes us instinctively recognize the beauty... without knowing it, without defining it, just a perception that surprises and captivates us.In this regard, I suggest perform a Closed Rhinoplasty (without visible scars) to treat the tip, base and nasal bridge.With this procedure you get a delicate nose, better harmonize with your other facial features.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I sure t your insurance company will consider your case to be cosmetic in nature and doubt they will pay for it.  Rhinoplasty costs vary quite a bit but figure it will be anywhere from $6000 to $9000.

Aaron Stone, MD · Answer

Whether or not insurance covers the surgery depends on the language of your policy and the documentation of a functional deficit. Some policies will not cover an old injury without a functional deficit. Your photo does not show any sign of skin breakdown on the bridge or even skin scarring. If you document doctor's office visits for the skin breakdown and treatment of that breakdown and submit photos of the skin breakdown the insurance will cover just the shaving of the spur. Coverage of additional surgery would require documented compromise of air flow through the nose.I hope you realize that this format of posting questions and receiving answers lacks the face to face direct communication required for you to make an informed decision regarding your surgery.My response to your question/post does not represent formal medical advice or constitute a doctor patient relationship. You need to consult with i.e. personally see a board certified plastic surgeon in order to receive a formal evaluation and develop a doctor patient relationship in order to know if this assessment is valid.

Marcelo Ghersi, MD · Answer

Typically this type of issue would be considered cosmetic, even though it sounds functional in your case. If you and your doctor can make a case for this, your insurance company may be willing to pay for the procedure.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The dorsal hump is composed of both bone and cartilage and can become larger due to trauma. Medical necessity must be determined prior to performing a rhinoplasty procedure, and we have never seen that happen before in our practice for hump removal. Expect to pay for the procedure yourself. For many examples, more information and our current price list, please see the video and the link below

Will insurance cover the filing of a bone spur on my nose? If not, how much does it usually cost? (Photo)

Answers (5)