May I know will insurance cover my reconstruction and how long will it take? (photos)

Question

I always wanted to get a rhinoplasty for nose correction and aesthetic purpose as well. I have a slight saddle nose deformity and I was wondering will health insurance do coverage for that. This reconstruction is considered as a medical job instead of cosmetic job. I desire to have a slightly smaller nose tip without and remove the dent in the middle of my nose. Also I would like to know how long would be the procedure and cost. Thank you.

Jill Hessler, MD · Answer

Dear, Sinha.In general a rhinoplasty is considered cosmetic if it performed only to change the appearance of the nose.  If the surgery is performed to improve the breathing then it can be considered medically indicated.  If there is damage to the cartilage causing a saddle nose from previous trauma this could also be considered medically indicated.  You would need to be evaluated by a facial plastic surgeon familiar with rhinoplasty who can advise you if your particular case is likely to be determined reconstructive by your insurance provider.   Hope that helps.

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear sinha9504 in Houston, TX:
Insurance is for people who have nasal blockage and
consequences of that such as sinus infections. 
No insurance policy covers purely cosmetic surgery, even if you have a
“saddle” nose deformity; that is a cosmetic issue.  If your nose has been injured in an accident,
insurance may be appropriate, but the best thing for you to do is check with
your insurance agent.  Whoever sells you
the policy should be able to tell you whether or not your particular situation
is covered or excluded from coverage. 
That is the best thing because no doctor can know all the details of
your insurance plan, but certainly your insurance agent or broker will. 
Regarding your questions as to the particulars of your
surgery, it is hard to say what else should be done besides refining the
tip.  Typically operations run for
several hours.  Costs depend on the
length of the operation, the complexity and, of course, where the surgeon
practices; some areas have higher costs of doing business than others.  Check out the doctors’ websites and submit
questions to those practices you are interested in with respect to what their
charges are.  They should be able to at
least give you a range.  Make sure that
you ask whether or not the fee quoted includes all care in the office, both
before and after, and also whether it covers the outpatient surgery center and
anesthesia specialist.
Best wishes,
Robert
Kotler, MD, FACS

Over
4,500 nasal procedures performed

Morgan E. Norris, III, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank
you for your question!  In
regards to Rhinoplasty, what you are describing would be considered cosmetic. I would like to mention that if you are having
breathing issues a Septoplasty may be what is needed, to correct the breathing,
as you may have a deviated septum. Reducing the size of your nose and/or
changing the shape externally are part of the Rhinoplasty. Some insurance companies may cover for the
septoplasty but this depends on your insurance company benefits.I would recommend a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your desired results and how best to proceed.Warm Wishes!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Sounds like a cosmetic rhinoplasty.  I do not know of insurance companies covering this. If you have severe nasal deviation and breathing issues, then sometimes they cover it.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Cosmetic rhinoplasty ncludinig a  saddle deformity is considered cosmetic, and is not paid for by any medical insurance. Changing the shape of the nose is considered cosmetic, and patient's must pay for that component themselves. Functional nasal surgery is performed for medical necessity which must be documented at the time of examination and consultation. Functional nasal surgery is performed when there is a breathing issue such as a deviated nasal septum, valve collapse, turbinate hypertrophy, vestibular stenosis, chronic sinusitis. It's also important to try and failed medical management with nasal sprays antihistamines and decongestants prior to undergoing functional nasal surgery for air flow improvement. Functional nasal surgery will not change the shape of the nose, only improves breathing. For more information about the differences between the 2 procedures, please see the video and the link below

May I know will insurance cover my reconstruction and how long will it take? (photos)

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May I know will insurance cover my reconstruction and how long will it take? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Cosmetic rhinoplasty versus functional nasal surgery

Answer: Cosmetic rhinoplasty versus functional nasal surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.