Does Blue Cross Shield cover belly fat removal and skin tightening?

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately, this procedure is cosmetic and would not be covered by insurance.  Hope this helps!

Insurance won't cover cosmetic procedures. Once in a while they will cover the removal of skin and fat (different procedure than a tummy tuck) if the skin hangs below the pubic bone and there are documented incidences of infection and skin breakdown. Keep up the good work, and maybe employ the help of a nutritionist to help you along the way!-Dr. S

Although there are many emotional and physical health benefits from  removing excess skin and fat, it is not considered to be medically necessary by insurance companies.  I commend you on your weight loss efforts  because this is key to getting the best results from a surgical procedure.  Seek a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Most offices offer payment plans that might help with the finances. Best wishes to you! 

Hi, thanks for your questions. What you are describing is considered cosmetic surgery by insurance companies, and therefore not covered. There can be confusion because in some circumstances an operation called a "panniculectomy" is covered by insurance. Typically, approval of this requires significant overhanging skin after major weight loss (100 lbs or more), and difficulties caused by the overhanging skin such as recurrent bacterial infections. A cosmetic tummy tuck should NOT be considered weight loss surgery.
On the other hand, actual bariatric weight loss surgery such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or lap band may be covered by insurance. These are typically covered if you are very obese, or obese and have medical problems caused by obesity (such as diabetes). Checking in with your primary care doctor is a good way to get started if this is a route you'd like to pursue.

Unfortunately anything cosmetic is not covered under insurance plans at this time.  Removing excess skin falls into this category.  It is always best to check with your insurance, they may cover a  bariatric surgery.   

It is always best to check with your particular insurance company to see what they cover.  That being said nearly all insurance companies consider surgeries like this cosmetic.

While your insurance company is the best source to understand particular aspects of your plan, Blue Cross Blue Shield feels that these procedures are cosmetic. Therefore, there will not be coverage. 

Insurance will never cover a tummy tuck. You are doing the right things. Consider seeing you primary care doctor for a complete exam including blood work to ensure that there is no underlying cause for you inability to lose weight. You may also inquire if you are a candidate for any type of bariatric surgery. Good luck. 

Health insurance does not cover any form of cosmetic surgery. The basic standard is functional medical necessity.  Seek counseling as to weight loss programs or surgery. Best wishes.

Insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery. This is something that is self-pay.  Best of luck in your decision to move forward.