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

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

Unfortunately not. Any changing of the nose shape outside of a deviated septum is considered 100% cosmetic and would therefore not be covered by insurance. 

Thank you for your question and photographs.Unfortunately, this procedure will not help reduce your risk of sunburn or skin cancer. Insurance considers this a cosmetic procedure and will not cover it. I would recommend scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist to come up with a preventative skin care plan for you when you are exposed to sunlight. If you are unhappy with the shape and appearance of your nose then I would also schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. Best of luck in your endeavors.Sincerely,

James Fernau, MD, FACSBoard Certified ENTBoard Certified Plastic SurgeryMember of ASPS, ASAPS, ISAPS, The Rhinoplasty Society, AAFPRS, OTO/HNS, ASLMS, International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics & Science