Question
I went to my medical doctor and he felt that I should get my extra skin removed from my stomach. He referred me to a cosmetic surgeon who also agreed. He took pictures and submitted it to my insurance company United HealthCare. They denied any coverage for this procedure. It costs around $6,000.00. I don't have the money. I am a college student. I don't want to live with this extra skin. Dying is the only way out. I told my doctors how I felt and that is why they felt it would be a good idea for the surgery. Years ago I was heavier and then I developed a healthy lifestyle; with eating right and excersing. I am still an avid exerciser but this skin does not go away. I am 18 years old. I weigh 130 pounds. So how can I get the insurance company to pay for this procedure? My Mom has been laid-off, so she doesn't have the money. Can you help me?
Answer
Hi Forrest!
Most insurance companies do not pay for cosmetic procedures. They only have to pay for medically necessary procedures.
You can try an appeal proving that this surgery is needed due to medical reasons with a note from the Dr however probably they will still not pay.
Only thing to do is probably try to negotiate the price for a "private pay" rate------which means you have no insurance coverage for this procedure.
Good Luck!
Tricia
