Does Excess Belly Flab Have Any Effect on Hernia?

Thank you for your question regarding whether excess belly flab affects your umbilical hernia. Yes, the additional weight and pressure from the overhanging belly flab (or pannus) can aggravate or worsen your hernia by putting extra strain on the abdominal wall.

Regarding insurance coverage, if the excess skin is causing medical issues like skin infections, rashes, or worsening the hernia, a panniculectomy might be covered by insurance. This procedure removes the overhanging skin but doesn't involve the muscle tightening typically done in a tummy tuck, which is considered cosmetic and unlikely to be covered.

It’s best to discuss your options with your plastic surgeon and insurance provider to see if you can combine the hernia repair with a panniculectomy if deemed medically necessary.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

I agree with the docs...I don't think the excess overhanging skin will have much of an effect on the hernia, but if you are overweight, the increased pressure of the abdominal fat will make repairing a hernia harder and make the recurrence rate higher.

Insurance may cover the repair of your umbilical hernia, which could be performed at the same time as your tummy tuck. The cosmetic portion (tummy tuck) however, will not be covered by your insurance. This varies depending on your particular insurance carrier and I recommend you check with them and a board certified plastic surgeon to get "preauthorized" prior to any procedures.
If your excess skin/tissue is hanging low enough, to or lower than the upper portion of the pubic/vaginal area, then insurance may infact deem your condition as reconstructive and possible cover the procedure. Your plastic surgeon would have to submit photos along with a letter of medical necessity to get you approved.