Hello Liam, thank you for your question regarding combining hernia surgery with a tummy tuck. It is quite common to combine hernia repair surgery with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Many patients find this combination beneficial as it allows them to address both medical and aesthetic concerns in a single procedure, reducing overall recovery time and costs compared to having the surgeries separately. Since your hernia surgery is medically necessary, insurance is likely to cover the portion of the procedure related to the hernia repair. Insurance companies generally do not cover the cosmetic portion of the surgery, such as the tummy tuck, as it is considered elective and not medically necessary. However, by combining the procedures, you can potentially reduce the overall cost you need to pay out-of-pocket for the tummy tuck portion. Here are a few steps to consider: Consult with a Plastic Surgeon: Make sure to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing both hernia repairs and tummy tucks. They can evaluate your condition and provide a detailed treatment plan. Insurance Approval: Work with your plastic surgeon's office to get the hernia repair pre-approved by your insurance company. This may involve submitting medical records, imaging studies, and a letter of medical necessity from your surgeon. Cost Breakdown: Request a detailed cost breakdown from your surgeon's office that separates the hernia repair costs from the tummy tuck costs. This will help you understand what portion your insurance might cover and what you will need to pay out-of-pocket. Coordination of Benefits: Some insurance plans have provisions for coordinating benefits when multiple procedures are performed at once. Be sure to discuss this with your insurance company to maximize your coverage. Combining hernia repair with a tummy tuck can be an effective way to achieve your desired results while potentially reducing overall costs. However, it is essential to thoroughly discuss your options with your plastic surgeon and insurance provider to ensure you have a clear understanding of coverage and costs. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck with your upcoming surgery. Sincerely, J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS