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.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

While excess skin and fat are removed during a tummy tuck (which may reduce the weight of your front) it will most likely not improve your condition enough. This is because a tummy tuck is designed for cosmetic improvement and only removes a small amount of tissue that won’t make a significant impact on your overall weight. Additionally, a tummy tuck is typically not covered by insurance. Weight loss through exercise and diet would be a better option.

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.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance.   From the information and photos provided you will need to first lose weight before considering a tummy tuck.  For some people insurance may cover a panniculectomy which is removal of a hanging apron of abdominal skin but this is not the same thing as a tummy tuck.

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

Answers (5)