Would medicaid cover a tummy tuck or another procedure like it due to "health issues"?

Question

medicaid covers the gastric sleeve if needed do to health witch i fall into that category but would they cover the tummy tuck or another code because of that same reason .... "health issues"?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately a tummy tuck is considered "not medically necessary" and will not be covered by Medicaid.  There are other options depending on the condition of your stomach after your weight loss, termed a panniculectomy that involves removal of any overhanging skin and fat.  Hope this helps.

Gregory Sexton, MD · Answer

Medicaid should never pay for a tummy tuck. If you have recurrent infections in the skin it will pay for a panniculectomy. but that is not a tummy tuck. Why would you expect taxpayers to pay for your cosmetic surgery?

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

Likely not.  Medicaid is very particular about cosmetic surgery and this would be considered cosmetic surgery.  They may cover a panniculectomy, which is just the removal of some of the skin in the lower part of the abdomen. I don't consider this to be a tummy tuck because nothing is done to the belly button in this case.  Also you might have a hard time finding a plastic surgeon who participates in medicaid.  Hope this helps. Good luck.Dr Vasisht

Carlos Burnett, MD, FACS · Answer

Medicaid will not cover elective plastic surgery procedures such as a tummy tuck. There are no "special codes"for health issues.

Would medicaid cover a tummy tuck or another procedure like it due to "health issues"?

Answers (4)

Answer: No

Answer: No

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Would medicaid cover a tummy tuck or another procedure like it due to "health issues"?

Answers (4)

Answer: No

Answer: No

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.