Will medicaid pay for liposuction in the lower abdomen?

Medicaid does not cover cosmetic procedures. One must demonstrate a medical indication for surgery in order to obtain pre-approval for a procedure.A patient seeking liposuction of the lower abdomen must justify medically the necessity for the procedure. Cosmetic change is inadequate.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Medicaid will not cover anything that is considered cosmetic.  There are several companies (Care Credit, Alphaeon) that finance plastic surgery procedures. Patients can also use their credit card (VISA, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX).  Speak with the patient coordinator of the board certified plastic surgeon you are considering to perform your procedures about the possibility of using Consumer Care Finance.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Thank you for your question. For the most part, major insurance companies, including Medicaid, do not cover cosmetic procedures, unless it is deemed medically necessary, such as reconstructive plastic surgery. The definition of cosmetic surgery varies, though from an insurance perspective, cosmetic surgery refers to any surgery with the purpose to modify or improve the appearance of a physical feature with no specific medical reason to do so. A medical need could include a condition that causes significant physical dysfunction or psychological distress to a patient, but many health insurance companies have defined criteria to determine if the surgery meets the requirements for coverage. However, most plastic surgeons offer financing for their patients, making the procedures affordable even without insurance assistance.Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon