I JUST HAD THE SURGERY, I'M KIND OF THINKING AHEAD. I HAVE A HMO AND WAS WONDERING SINCE THE INS COVERED THE SURGERY WILL THEY COVER THE TUMMY TUCK TO. HAS ANYBODY HAVE THERE HMO COVER IT???:biggrin:

Hi:

My HMO approved a panniculectomy only. However, I'm paying for the increased time in the o.r., surgeon, and anesthesiologist so that I can get a full tummy tuck. I had issues with rashes under my belly. My lap band doctor took pictures, as well as the plastic surgeon. It took about 2 weeks to get the approval. It was worth all of the embarassment of having these pics taken because I'm saving about $12 - $14k.

Good luck.

I love my band!

Sue

I am a health insurance agent and at this point no insurance carrier is covering cosmetic surgeries post weight loss.

Now panniculectomy is the removal of excess skin which may be medically necessary in some cases, such as in the case of the excess skin causing infections or ulcers. So, in this case the panniculectomy would be covered if you doctor recommends and insurance approves.

An abdominoplasty is not only the removal of excess skin but also tighten of the abdominal muscles and lipo sculpture. This procedure is considered purely cosmetic and not covered by insurance.

I hope this answers some of you questions.