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.

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.

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?

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

Answers (4)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

PLEASE help - Do I need a revision from my endoscopic Tummy tuck? (photos)

What goes on in a pre operative tummy tuck assessment?

Why is there swelling above my incision line after my TT? (Photo)

Does abdominoplasty also lift pub is area

I had a Tummy Tuck 13 days ago. How long do I keep sleeping in a reclining position? I'm getting tired of sleeping like this.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS