Will Health Insurance Cover Plastic Surgery?

Answer:
Health insurance often covers plastic surgery when the surgery is medically necessary;

just as often, health insurance denies plastic surgery when it’s for cosmetic purposes. For example, if you don’t like the bump on your nose and want a nose job in order to transform your unattractive nose into a cute little button nose, you’ll probably be out of luck in getting your insurance company to pay for the surgery.

On the other hand, if you are experiencing breathing difficulties due to a problem with your nose, the insurance company may cover surgery to correct the condition. If the bump is part of the problem, you might be able to get that cute button nose as part of the bargain.

Before you schedule the surgery, your plastic surgeon will likely send a pre-authorization letter to your insurance company to make sure that the surgery will be covered. This letter will explain the procedure and why it’s needed along with an estimate of the fees anticipated. It asks for permission to proceed. The insurance company will review your case in order to determine whether the surgery is medically necessary or elective and will either approve or deny the procedure.