Will health insurance typically cover dorsal hump rhinoplasty for severe sunburn prevention? (Photo)

Question

During summer and fall the dorsal hump on my nose will sunburn so quickly and badly that the skin over the dorsal hump will bleed and create a 3/4 inch or so scab. Is rhinoplasty on the dorsal hump to prevent a bleeding sunburn, pain and skin cancer melanoma prophylactic an insurable procedure?

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Your request would not be covered by insurance as, while it would change your nasal profile, it would not change the fact that sunshine still hits your nasal dorsum and can lead to all those issues you mentioned.  To minimize sun damage to your nose, try Zinc oxide, it's a fantastic sunblock.

David Tauber, MD · Answer

A cosmetic rhinoplasty removes and repositions tissue in the nose for better overall aesthetics. This often involves removing dorsal humps, reshaping the tip, and narrowing the nose. Unfortunately, insurance does not cover cosmetic rhinoplasty. You may, however, possibly have the dorsal hump straightened for a reduced fee when this cosmetic surgery is combined with a functional septoplasty for breathing difficulty refractory to conservative treatment.Follow the link below for more info on rhinoplasty.A detailed examination will help delineate the best surgical option and provide you a custom quote for your situation. Consultation with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery would be the next best step.

Rajan Uppal, MBBS, FRCS · Answer

This is exactly the kind of thing that can invalidate your insurance. Insurers are smart people who know human behaviour well. This will not be covered and moreover if you attempt it, the insurer could place you on a suspicious claim list. Read their policy documents carefully.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A dorsal hump removal will not eliminate sun exposure risk and risk of skin cancers.  Insurance will not cover this as they will say this is for cosmetic reasons.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

This would not be a rationale for insurance coverage. Melanoma prevention can consist of repeated appplication of sunscreen or use of a nasal shield. You should see a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer, given your description of the bleeding and scabbing.

Will health insurance typically cover dorsal hump rhinoplasty for severe sunburn prevention? (Photo)

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Answer: Rhinoplasty to prevent melanoma

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Will health insurance typically cover dorsal hump rhinoplasty for severe sunburn prevention? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty to prevent melanoma

Answer: Rhinoplasty to prevent melanoma

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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