Tummy tuck - would insurance pay for this as it is causing herniations?

Question

I have had 3 cesarean deliveries. I had several months of physical therapy to try and fix lower herniated disk in my back. Therapist said there was no fixing the abdomen enough to solve back problem. State of cT Blue cross blue shield partnership

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

A tummy tuck is considered an aesthetic procedure therefore it is not typically covered by insurance. However, if the issue is caused by the pannus, the apron of skin and fat hanging below your waist, then surgery to remove this may be covered by insurance. This procedure is known as a panniculectomy, and only targets the pannus. Targeting any tissue above, along with the correction of abdominal muscle separation, would not be covered by insurance.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Celebrated871794,
tummy tuck will not help you with your disc herniations so insurance won't cover it. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If you have a true hernia insurance will probably pay. They may require documentation by cat scan. The tummy tuck part will likely not be covered and considered cosmetic.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  As a tummy tuck is always deemed "not medically necessary" by insurance companies they would not cover the cost.  Additionally it is unlikely to solve any/all back problems.  Hope this helps.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your tummy tuck is considered cosmetic and will not be covered.  Tummy tucks might be covered if you had 100 pound weight loss.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance.  It is not designed to address lower back issues so it is possible you will not see improvement of that area from a tummy tuck.  A tummy tuck will address abdominal wall separation as well as remove excess fat and skin.

David Janssen, MD, FACS · Answer

Although there is some evidence that TT does relieve back pain in some patients, I have never been successful in getting a TT covered by insurance.

Tummy tuck - would insurance pay for this as it is causing herniations?

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