Did you know that not all plastic surgery services in Brandon, FL, are cosmetic? If you’ve been looking at a procedure, but are worried you can’t pay out of pocket for it, you may be in luck with the following procedures that may receive financial assistance from your health insurance.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

It may be a surprise to some, but a rhinoplasty near Tampa is frequently considered a medical procedure. Commonly referred to the “nose job,” a rhinoplasty can also be performed to correct breathing complications or structural issues, such as a deviated septum. Although this may be medically necessary for some, plastic surgeons generally include aesthetic enhancements to complement the patient’s facial features. So not only will they help you breathe properly again, but also make cosmetic changes that insurance will help with!

Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

An otoplasty, or commonly referred to as ear surgery in Riverview, improves the position, size and shape of your ear or earlobe. Many patients receive this procedure to improve their self-esteem, but many also receive it to correct an injury or defect in the structure of the ear. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, correcting deformities of the ear can be life-changing for some. However, the only time health insurance may help you with an otoplasty will be if you have medical hearing complications.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

It’s unfortunate that many inevitable factors can affect your appearance, including aging, genetics, and sun damage of the skin. These factors may lead to saggy skin, wrinkles, and puffiness of the eyes. A blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery near Lakeland, FL, can be performed on the upper, lower, or both eyelids to restore your vibrant appearance. Health insurance may help with the cost of the procedure if your sagging eyelids are obstructing your vision – which would need to be validated by an eye doctor.

Breast Procedures

The primary two breast procedures that health insurance will contribute to are “reconstructive procedures,” including Breast Reduction (to relieve back, shoulder, and neck pain) and Breast Reconstruction Surgery following a mastectomy. Unfortunately, the likelihood of getting an average breast augmentation for solely cosmetic reasons covered by health insurance is slim to none. There are many stipulations and restrictions on what techniques and methods the plastic surgeon utilizes based on insurance coverage.

Male Breast Reduction

According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, up to 50 percent of men will experience the physical changes of Gynecomastia. Some health insurances will help cover gynecomastia treatment if it’s caused by a medical condition, such as hormone imbalance or medication intake. Also, it depends on the age of the patient and whether the patient has proven their attempt to decrease their chest size through exercise and diet.

Body Lift After Massive Weight Loss

If you have lost a large amount of weight either through diet and exercise or had gastric bypass surgery, you may qualify for health insurance coverage for a body lift procedure that removes excess, stretched out skin. This includes procedures such as:

  • Tummy Tuck
  • Body Lifts
  • Butt Lifts
  • Thigh Lifts
  • And more!

Although this is purely meant to be a medical procedure, by removing skin that causes discomfort or other medical complications, don’t expect your health insurance company to cover a Brazilian Butt Lift in Tampa!

In all cases of plastic surgery, you should make sure to have open communication with your health insurance so you know exactly what will be covered. Some things may not be included that you want to prepare for before the bill comes from your surgeon’s office!

 

Don’t forget to follow us on Google+ and Facebook!

Dr. Shienbaum is a double board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in all forms of Cosmetic Surgery, including Tummy Tucks, Brazilian Butt Lifts, Mommy Makeovers, Breast Augmentation, and Liposuction. He serves patients across the entire Tampa Bay area, including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, and Lakeland, FL. To learn more about the procedures near you, please visit brandonplasticsurgery.com.