Can you get a tummy tuck because of medical reasons?

Question

I clean under the skin fold all the time and now just got a antifungal

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

A TT is considered a cosmetic procedure which is not covered by insurance. If deemed medically necessary, in some cases, health insurance will cover a panniculectomy.  Both the TT and the panniculectomy target the abdominal region of the body.  However, a TT removes excess fat and skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, whereas a  panniculectomy targets the area of excess tissue located underneath the belly button. A hanging pannus can cause difficulties with back pain and hygiene, making day-to-day tasks difficult as it hangs in the way.Recommend that you select your plastic surgeon by credentials, before and after pictures, reviews, accreditation of facility, board certification of surgeon, ease of contact and treatment particularly after surgery, etc.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You will be unlikely to get insurance coverage for a tummy tuck, but you may get coverage for a panniculectomy.  This is the removal of only the skin hanging below the fold.  It does not address the muscle laxity, the belly button, or any excess skin around or above the belly button.  In my opinion, this operation performed by itself generally results in a less than aesthetic outcome.   Typically I require any patient who wishes a medical insurnace panniculectomy to pay out of pocket for the remaining portion of the cosmetic tummy tuck to get the best possible result.  Best to see a board certified plastic surgeon for optimal advice. Good luck.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

A tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, you’ve mentioned that you have issues with skin folds. If you have a pannus (an apron of skin hanging below the waist) this can be covered by OHIP. The procedure is known as a panniculectomy.

David Whiteman, MD · Answer

Absolutely. While it is technically considered a cosmetic procedure, a tummy tuck can have considerable medical benefits as well. During a tummy tuck, damaged or separated abdominal muscles are often repaired. This can help reduce back pain and correct posture issues in many cases by improving spinal support. However, it’s important to remember that despite its medical benefits, many insurance providers still consider a tummy tuck to be a cosmetic procedure and will not typically cover the surgery.

Robert Sleightholm, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks so much for your question. You will require a consultation and examination in order to assess and submit a possible OHIP covered panniculectomy. The surgeon will explain what exactly is covered and what is not. Be sure to visit surgeons that specialize in this type of procedure. Best of luck!!

Can you get a tummy tuck because of medical reasons?

Answers (7)

Answer: Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Answer: Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Answer: OHIP coverage for tummy tuck

Answer: OHIP coverage for tummy tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Can you get a tummy tuck because of medical reasons?

Answers (7)

Answer: Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Answer: Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Answer: OHIP coverage for tummy tuck

Answer: OHIP coverage for tummy tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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