Can I combine hernia repair with TT so insurance will cover some of the costs?

Question

I had gastric bypass 13yrs ago and lost 100lbs then gained about half that back after 2 kids. Last year had an appendectomy and surgeon found a large hernia. I am starting to have more discomfort. I am still overweight but am concerned that after I have a hernia repair that the excess skin and hanging stomach may pull on the repair and cause it to be herniated again. I don't feel I have time to loose more wt before needing to have this surgery. Can it be done together inspite of my wt?

Edwin C. Pound, III, MD · Answer

Hernia repair in conjunction with a tummy tuck is not an uncommon combination surgery.  Depending on how large the hernia is, it may be repaired with or without the addition of mesh for additional support.  Your best results will come when you are at a stable weight.  I would recommend that you visit a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you in person and review your options with you.

Lawrence Iteld, MD · Answer

Combining hernia repair with a tummy tuck or other contouring procedure is very commonly performed and is a great opportunity to get both things done with one recovery. Depending on the size and complexity of the hernia, your plastic surgeon may ask a general surgeon to collaborate on your surgery.
While insurance will almost always cover hernia repair, body contouring is rarely considered medically necessary and the patient must pay for this part.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  As long as you are not having any serious symptoms from your hernia (your general surgeon should be able to ensure this) the best course of action would be to pursue a healthy diet and exercise regimen to lose additional weight. Weight loss not only reduces your risk of hernia recurrence but also will minimize the risks of surgery and improve your aesthetic outcome from a tummy tuck.  Once at a lower and stable weight both procedures can be safely performed in a single operation.  Hope this helps.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

thank you for your question. A hernia repair can often be combined with a tummy tuck with the hernia portion being covered by your insurance company. If the hernia is quite extensive, then it may be a better idea to have the tummy tuck at least several months after you have healed from the hernia repair. Excess skin or fatty tissue under the skin on the outside of the muscles of the abdomen will not increase your risk for a recurrence of the hernia. Your risk for recurrence is elevated by your overall body weight and the amount of internal or visceral fat. I recommend being evaluated by both a general surgeon and a plastic surgeon so that you can be fully evaluated with proper recommendations being given before surgery.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A hernia can often be repaired at the same time as a tummy tuck.  Insurance will only cover the hernia repair. You would have to pay for the costs for the tummy tuck.

Can I combine hernia repair with TT so insurance will cover some of the costs?

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