should insurance cover cosmetic procedures

Based on the search results, whether insurance should cover cosmetic procedures depends on the specific policy and circumstances. Here are some key points from the sources:

• Cosmetic surgery is typically not covered by health insurance because it is considered an elective procedure that is not medically necessary[1].
• Medicare usually doesn’t cover cosmetic surgery unless you need it because of accidental injury or to improve the function of a malformed body part[2].
• Some plastic surgery procedures that can be classified as ‘medically necessary’ are often part of insurance policies[3].
• Generally, cosmetic plastic surgery is not covered by insurance, but medically necessary or reconstructive plastic surgery is more likely covered[4].
• Aetna plans exclude coverage of cosmetic surgery and procedures that are not medically necessary, but generally provide coverage when the surgery or procedure is needed to improve the functioning of a body part or otherwise medically necessary even if the surgery or procedure also improves or changes the appearance of a portion of the body[5].
• Cosmetic procedures like a tummy tuck, butt lift, and breast enhancement are typically not covered by regular insurance[6].

In summary, whether insurance should cover cosmetic procedures depends on the specific policy and circumstances. Generally, cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance because they are considered elective and not medically necessary. However, some plastic surgery procedures that can be classified as ‘medically necessary’ may be covered by insurance policies. It is recommended to check with the insurance company to determine whether a specific cosmetic procedure is covered by the policy.

What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery

Cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery are two different types of procedures. Here are the differences between the two:

Cosmetic Surgery:

• Cosmetic surgery is performed to improve a person’s appearance and is usually elective.
• It is not considered medically necessary.
• Examples of cosmetic surgery include breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and facelift.
• Cosmetic surgery is not typically covered by health insurance.

Reconstructive Surgery:

• Reconstructive surgery is performed to restore function and normal appearance, and correct deformities created by birth defects, trauma, or medical conditions including cancer.
• It is considered medically necessary.
• Examples of reconstructive surgery include cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction following a lumpectomy or mastectomy for breast cancer, and reconstructive surgery after burn injuries.
• Reconstructive surgery is typically covered by health insurance.

It is important to note that there is often significant overlap between reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery since they share many of the same underlying surgical principles. No matter the type of plastic surgery that is being performed, the end goal should always include maximizing the cosmetic result as much as possible. The lines between reconstructive and cosmetic surgery are further blurred when it comes to insurance coverage. Certain conditions can be deemed either “reconstructive” or “cosmetic” depending on the patient’s situation.

What are some examples of medically necessary plastic surgery

Medically necessary plastic surgery is a type of plastic surgery that is performed to improve the health or function of the body. Here are some examples of medically necessary plastic surgery:

• Breast reconstruction: Breast reconstruction is considered medically necessary after partial mastectomy or lumpectomy or total mastectomy[1].
• Reconstructive surgery: Reconstructive surgery helps repair a part of the body damaged by disease, trauma or defect. It includes procedures such as skin grafts, scar revision, and cleft lip and palate repair[6].
• Panniculectomy: Panniculectomy, or excision of the excess skin on the lower abdomen, can sometimes be shown to be medically necessary[4].
• Hand surgery: Hand surgery can be considered medically necessary to restore function and relieve pain caused by conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren’s contracture, and trigger finger[3].
• Skin cancer removal: Plastic surgery to remove skin cancer is considered medically necessary when the cancer is located in an area that would affect the function of the body if left untreated[5].

It is important to note that cosmetic surgery, which is performed to enhance overall cosmetic appearance, is not considered medically necessary[2].

How can I find out if a specific cosmetic procedure is covered by my insurance

To find out if a specific cosmetic procedure is covered by your insurance, you can follow these steps:

1. Check your insurance policy: The first step is to check your insurance policy to see if it covers the specific cosmetic procedure you are interested in. You can find this information in your policy documents or by contacting your insurance provider directly.
2. Determine if the procedure is medically necessary: Insurance companies typically only cover cosmetic procedures that are deemed medically necessary. This means that the procedure must be required to treat a medical condition or injury, rather than being purely cosmetic in nature. If the procedure is not medically necessary, it is unlikely to be covered by insurance.
3. Consult with your doctor: Your doctor can help you determine if the cosmetic procedure you are interested in is medically necessary and can provide documentation to support your insurance claim.
4. Research coverage options: If your insurance policy does not cover the procedure you are interested in, you may be able to find alternative coverage options. For example, some insurance companies offer supplemental policies that cover cosmetic procedures.

It is important to note that cosmetic surgery is typically not covered by health insurance because it is considered an elective procedure that is not medically necessary[1]. However, some procedures may be covered if they are considered reconstructive in nature[2][3][4]. Ultimately, the coverage of a specific cosmetic procedure will depend on your insurance policy and the medical necessity of the procedure.

Citations:
[1] https://www.apresplasticsurgery.com/blog/what-cosmetic-surgery-procedures-are-covered-by-insurance/
[2] https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/cosmetic-surgery
[3] https://aedit.com/aedition/insurance-coverage-for-plastic-surgery-cosmetic-procedures
[4] https://www.drcoberly.com/news/plastic-surgery-covered-by-insurance/
[5] https://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/1_99/0031.html
[6] https://cosmetassure.com/what-insurance-covers-cosmetic-surgery/?amp=1