If my insurance provider is Kaiser, will they cover most of the cost of my septorhinoplasty?

Question

I'm 20 years old, and I'm looking into doing a septoplasty over the summer. I've heard its extremely common for people who have deviated septum surgeries to also have a rhinoplasty at the same time since it reduces the cost. However, I do have Kaiser insurance and I was wondering if they would reduce the cost as well since the septoplasty is pretty much covered.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear AmandaI think a consultation with your ENT doctor at kaiser might be your best source of getting correct and first hand information about financing. In my opinion, it would be worth your time to see nonkaiser rhinoplasty surgeons in consultation as well. An informed decision can save you from a revision rhinoplasty and reward you with an excellent and pleasing result. ( I am not implying kaiser surgeons are not as good) I just think if you narrow your consults by your insurance you may not be exposed to all possibilities. I often combine functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty. I suspect a little research will help you find a surgeon that can do both well.

Anand G. Shah, MD · Answer

Hi Amanda.  Your question is reasonable; I suspect only Kaiser will be able to give you a definitive answer.  You may wish to consult with your Kaiser provider as well as your Kaiser insurance carrier.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A septoplasty is performed  when there is a deviated septum present in the back of the nose blocking air flow. A septoplasty is performed  once medical necessity has been documented at the time of examination and consultation. A septoplasty is billed to the patient's medical insurance, while co-pays  and deductibles will still apply for the operating room, anesthesia, and the surgeon's fee for performing the septoplasty procedure. A rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes to change the shape of the nose and is not paid for by the patient's medical insurance. Patients must pay for the cosmetic component themselves.Both procedures can be performed at the same time.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for your question but that is one to put to your Kaiser doctor to see what will and what would not be coveredDr Corbin

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

No, Kaiser is an HMO and would probably offer you a Septoplasty by one of their surgeons.  Cosmetic Rhinoplasty wouldn't be covered or availble through Kaiser most likely.  You want the most experienced Rhinoplasty Surgeon that you can get.  Hope this helps.

If my insurance provider is Kaiser, will they cover most of the cost of my septorhinoplasty?

Answers (5)