Is Diastasis Recti Repair Covered by Insurance?

   Dear Tricia in PA,

     Unfortunately, even symptomatic diastasis is not covered by insurance. However, if you have a hernia, you may be able to get coverage for this problem. I would suggest a consultation with a general surgeon to determine if you have a hernia. If not, most plastic surgeons repair the diastasis at the time of a tummy tuck. This would be an out of pocket expense however. Good luck.

Thanks for your question.  Unfortunately, diastasis recti is not covered by insurance even if it causes pain, swelling, bloating, deformities, back pain, etc.  More studies need to be done to prove the benefit of repairing the separation of the muscles.  However, from your symptoms it sounds like you may have a hernia.  A hernia repair is covered by insurance, so have your plastic surgeon or general surgeon examine you to determine whether or not you have a hernia.  If you do, a tummy tuck can be performed at the same time to tighten your abdominal muscles and to remove any excess skin from your abdomen.  Even though this part is not covered, some of the time in the operating room will be covered by the insurance company.  Financing options are also offered by many plastic surgeons.  We have great financing options, and I frequently perform tummy tucks with other procedures, like a hernia repair, OB/GYN procedures.