Will insurance pay for a revision rhinoplasty if the cartilage in my septum is deteriorating? (photos)

Insurance authorization can be requested for revision rhinoplasty in cases of nasal obstruction, persistent deviated septum, or saddle nose deformity causing valve stenosis. A complete evaluation will need to be performed by a rhinoplasty surgeon who specializes in septoplasty and revision rhinoplasty. 

 A revision rhinoplasty is considered cosmetic and not covered by any insurance plan because there is no medical necessity to change the shape of the nose. The photographs demonstrate a hanging columella, which can be improved with a columella plasty. Other adjustments to the nose can also be performed as necessary. Nasal obstruction in the back of the nose can be considered medical necessity,  such as a deviated septum and a functional septoplasty is performed for that. For more information  about the differences between a septoplasty and a rhinoplasty,  please see the video below

Dear kmcfet,Septoplasty in general can be covered by insurance if there is documented nasal obstruction, blockage, or collapse of the nostrils (nasal valve).  Often this is an process involving writing to your insurance company for benefits and a waiting process.  A formal nasal exam including a few basic tests can verify this.  To your second point ,cartilage can disintegrate if there is trauma or scar in the area.  This can happen even after surgery.  It would be hard to tell per say how much cartilage is left in your nose unless it was examined formally.  Hope this helps and good luck!Dr Narasimhan

Insurance does not pay for cosmetic surgery but if you have a functional problem with your nose insurance might pay to fix that The only way to know for sure is to see a Facial plastic surgeon who can write a predeterminatuon of benefits letter to your insurance company and they can then tell you ii the surgery on your nose will be covered. 

Health insurance companies typically contribute to the cost of fixing functional problems but there are many different policies. My office staff will help our patients communicate with their insurance companies before surgery to try to answer your question.