Is there any insurance that covers the removal of multiple lipomas in Washington state?

Question

I'm a 26 year old male with multiple lipomas around my chest, neck and back. My insurance (state insurance) doesn't cover their removal even though I went to the doctor from being in so much pain I felt I was like I was going to pass out. Just frustrated and am trying to be proactive and not be in so much pain anymore but I can't seem to find any help or answers. Perhaps there are some kind of charity programs?

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

If there is pain, then it is a medical necessity and should covered by insurance. Even in the typical case of multiple lipomas that are more of a cosmetic than medical problem, we often find that patients get some insurance coverage. Typical codes used are:  Lipoma excision codes, forearm. arm, thigh, back.

24075  exc tumor sq
less than 3 cm  arm

25075 arm forearm 
< 3 cm

27327  thigh  < 3 cm21930  exc tumor back
< 3 cmICD 10 codes:D17.20through D17.24.We remove lipomas through a #11 puncture incision about 1/4 to 3/8", by undermining and extrusion. If they are larger, then we use  PAL (power-assisted liposuction) to debulk them and then extrude them through the same small incision. Scarring is minimal and usually acceptable even when many are removed. We have removed up to 80 at the same time, but more commonly remove 5-20.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Symptomatic lesions are usually covered for excision by most insurances.Get an evaluation at the local university hospital.Dr Karamanoukian

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Each insurance company has its own policies and procedures regarding what is and is not covered, so the specifics in your case will depend on your own insurance company.In general, though, growths and lesions that are symptomatic are usually "covered," assuming you can find a surgeon who accepts the insurance to perform the surgery (that is potentially another issue).I would recommend that you interview several surgeons until you find one you are comfortable with, and then see if he or she can help guide you through the process of trying to obtain insurance approval.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of #RealSelf500

Is there any insurance that covers the removal of multiple lipomas in Washington state?

Answers (3)

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