Tummy tuck for severe spine pain

Question

My current weight is 270. Ive had 2 wls w/ a 110 lb wl. BC of a car accident I have severe back pain. DDD, scoliosis, two failed spinal fusion/laminectomy surgeries, lumbar radiculopathy, disc bulges/herniations. I get spine injections, use lidocaine patches and PT doesnt help. Will my Aetna POS II plan approve abdominoplasty for therapeutic reasons. Studies show removal of excess skin can improve chronic back pain. Exercising is painful, I'm on LTD & my orthopedic surgeon has me on restrictions.

Leland Deane, MD, FACS · Answer

It is indeed true that certain techniques in abdominoplasty can improve pelvic position and help with back pain. It is still a cosmetic procedure in classification and insurance coverage could be construed as insurance fraud, so be careful.

Susan D. Vasko, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Insurance will never approve to pay for an abdominoplasty, as it is a cosmetic procedure. They sometimes will approve a panniculectomy, but you would need to provide documentation that you have lost over 100 pounds, and that you have had rashes/irritation that you have treated with topical creams and/or powders. They will also ask for photos to evaluate. I suggest meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon who will be able to help you obtain the documentation insurance requires and can discuss a panniculectomy with you. Good luck.

Adolfo Sesto, MD · Answer

Hi. For me your best option is solve your obseity problem firsst. Spine poblems gets worst with overweight. The use of compression garment after the TT will increase your pain. Lose weight first.International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
Member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Tummy tuck for severe spine pain

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Tummy tuck for severe spine pain

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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