Will my Insurance Company Cover Brachial Plasty?

   It has become very difficult to get this approved, and even panniculectomy is not as easy to get covered as it once was.  You may want to consider a few surgeons in your area who perform alot of body contouring procedures to determine what financing options may be available.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Hello srodriguez2112. Thank you for your question regarding insurance coverage for brachioplasty.

The possibility of insurance coverage for brachioplasty largely depends on the quality of your insurance and what they are willing to cover. It will be essential to go to your primary care physician (PCP) to document any rashes, burns, or other issues caused by your loose, hanging arms. Take detailed pictures and ensure your doctor documents everything meticulously. This documentation can help build a case for medical necessity, which is often required for insurance to cover such procedures.

Additionally, please note that many plastic surgeons offer financing options to help manage the cost of the procedure. We offer financing through Care Credit, which can make the surgery more affordable by allowing you to pay over time.

Good luck, and I hope this information helps you navigate your insurance coverage and financing options for brachioplasty.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

It's not unusual for massive weight loss patients to develop significant amounts of excess upper arm skin. Under these circumstances, it would be extremely unusual for an insurance carrier to cover the cost of an arm lift procedure. Most insurance companies would view this procedure as cosmetic in nature. Faced with this reality, it might be appropriate to explore other options. In some cases, financing this type of procedure may be a  consideration.

In my experience, arm lifts (brachioplasties) are never covered by insurance.

Insurance companies generally deem arm lift procedures as not medically indicated.  Hence they do not cover arm lifts.