Can a Tummy Tuck Be Paid for by OHIP?

Thank your for this question which is quite common.A tummy tuck is an operation that involves removal of the skin from the belly button to the lower abdominal fold, repair of the muscles and liposuction of the hip rolls. A panniculectomy is an operation that involves amputation of the pannus. This means cutting off the hanging piece. OHIP never covers a tummy tuck. OHIP sometimes covers a panniculectomy if the pannus hangs below the level of the pubis and is significantly symptomatic. They are very strict about this.

OHIP does not pay for tummy tucks because they are considered cosmetic procedures. If you have a large pannus (skin flap) that is causing problems like rashes then OHIP may pay for a panniculectomy, which is a straightforward removal of the excess skin without any liposuction, muscle tightening, undermining or correction of the belly button. The best way to know what the right procedure for you is to book a consultation with a  plastic surgeon near you to discuss your options. Best of luck!  

A tummy tuck is considered to be a cosmetic procedure and therefore OHIP would not cover it. However, OHIP does cover a panniculectomy, a procedure that removes the skin and fat that hangs below your waist (called a “pannus”) in individuals who have experienced weight loss of 100lbs or more. Please note that a panniculectomy does not target anything above the pannus. 

Hello,Unfortunately, no, OHIP does not cover a tummy tuck as this procedure is considered to be cosmetic. It is far more extensive than a pannicelectomy which is a procedure designed to remove an apron of excess skin only, typically after massive weight loss. I recommend that you contact a local board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in abdominoplasty and let them advise you about the best approach for you.All the best 

OHIP provides coverage for a procedure called a panniculectomy.  A panniculectomy is a procedure to remove hanging skin only.  It differs from tummy tuck surgery in that a tummy tuck tightens the muscle as well as removes excess skin and fat but a panniculectomy only removes excess skin. 

In my experience I have found that patients who choose to have a panniculectomy are not completely satisfied with the results. For this reason I recommend that patients, even those who have experienced a massive weight loss, to consider a tummy tuck procedure as the results are more aesthetically pleasing.

 

Tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by OHIP. There is a procedure called a panniculectomy which if approved is covered by OHIP. A panniculectomy is excess skin in the pannus area also referred to as an apron, that hangs down over the genitals  and or thighs. During your initial consultation a certified plastic surgeon will be able to determine which procedure is best for you. 

Hello Jo-Anne,OHIP does not pay for tummy tuck surgery.  It is considered a  cosmetic procedure and our provincial health plan here in Ontario does not cover cosmetic surgery.  Tummy tuck is a surgery where the muscles are tightened, the abdomen contoured and excess skin is removed.  People who undergo this procedure are normally very satisfied as it meets the goals set out before surgery very well.  OHIP does sometimes cover panniculectomy procedures.  This procedure removes hanging skin, but offers none of the other benefits of tummy tuck surgery.  In my experience, patients are not terribly satisfied with this surgery, as removing the hanging skin is really only one part of what would benefit their abdomen.A consultation with a Plastic Surgeon can help clarify this further for you. 

Not knowing what these initials represent, I googled it and found it is Ontario Health Insurance Plan.  Googling that plus tummy tuck or abdominoplasty I find several message boards with discussions, that you can read.

In short it seems that with sufficient symptoms they may cover removal of overhanging skin (panniculectomy) but not a full tummy tuck. 

See your primary physician to work within your system to find out. 

Best wishes.