Tummy tuck covered under insurance? Stretch marks were caused by a chronic disease.

Question

A few years ago I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. As a result of my chronic kidney disease I rapidly gained 40 pounds of fluid weight since my kidneys were shut down. This lead to major stretch marks up my stomach. Since these stretch marks were caused by a chronic disease is there any way that I would be able to get my insurance to cover any of the costs? I have blue cross blue shield insurance. Thank you!

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about the chronic disease which has caused fluid retention and stretch marks.   Tummy tucks are considered elective/cosmetic procedures.  The cause of the unacceptable cosmetic appearance is not a determining factor.  As a result, they are not covered by insurance.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

I don't believe any insurance company will cover any procedures to improve/remove stretch marks as there is no functional problem caused by them. In addition, it is entirely possible that your kidney disease could prevent you from being a candidate for elective cosmetic surgery.

Tummy tuck covered under insurance? Stretch marks were caused by a chronic disease.

Answers (2)