Will doctors fill out Short Term Disability forms for a tummy tuck for employers?

Question

Will Doctors fill out Short Term Disability forms for a Tummy Tuck for employers ?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

All patients undergoing abdominoplasty have restrictions on activity after this substantial operation. A note to the employer outlining these restrictions is common practice.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

You ask a very important question, but one that really depends on the details. First, you have to establish the reason for the procedure. If it's purely cosmetic, I doubt that any plastic surgeon would say otherwise.  If it's for a functional purpose, you have a chance of obtaining short term disability as you heal. The key question is what your insurance will cover. One approach is to ask your HR people about your coverage. You may also contact your carrier to see what is considered applicable for coverage. Your surgeon will likely help you but no ethical surgeon will stretch the truth. Best of luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is usually a portion on short term disability forms which the physician is to complete and sign.  Bring that portion with you to the office.  Be sure to give your surgeon time to complete their section.  Be sure to speak with your employer first to determine if your surgery will be eligible for coverage since it is cosmetic.

Jamie Moenster, DO · Answer

Thank you for the question. Usually plastic surgeons will fill out the paperwork, however, some disability providers do not cover for cosmetic procedures. You should check with your provider. Best Wishes!!!

Fara Movagharnia, DO, FACOS · Answer

I am always happy to complete these forms.  Medical indications for time off work following surgery include mandatory bed rest, wound care, antibiotics, narcotic pain medication, no driving etc.  As doctors we have to be truthful and answer all questions honestly, but usually these requirements are sufficient to allow time off work.

Jason M. Petrungaro, MD, FACS · Answer

This request comes up all the time in my practice.  It can be a bit tricky.  The reason is that if you are having a tummy tuck, it is an elective cosmetic procedure.  Insurance will not pay for it, and in the vast majority of cases you will have a difficult time getting short-term disability because this is reserved for a patient who has been injured or gets sick and needs time away from work.  We always work with our patients and will fill out any forms that their job provided as long as they are aware that we will fill out the forms truthfully.  Most patients just use their own accumulated paid time off.  If a patient has a "desk job" I usually only require one week off work.  If the patient has more of a labor-intensive job, at least 2 weeks off is required.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

It is very common for us to do that. Ethical surgeons will not provide any false information (we are often asked to).

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

We are happy to assist patients with paperwork needed for their jobs.  Contact a highly experienced board certified plastic surgeon for an in person evaluation.

Will doctors fill out Short Term Disability forms for a tummy tuck for employers?

Answers (8)

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