I was told I had to have an abdominoplasty in order to repair my umbilical hernia. Is there any way that an insurance company would cover this procedure when it is only being performed to ensure the hernia repair doesn't fail? The abdominoplasty isn't for cosmetic purposes. I want the umbilical pain to end but cant afford an abdominoplasty :(
No, abdominoplasty is considered a cosmetic procedure and health insurance won’t cover it. You can have the umbilical hernia repaired (if it is causing you symptoms) either directly (incision around part of the umbilicus) or laparoscopically, and insurance may cover.. You don’t need a tummy tuck to repair an umbilical hernia. However, in patients who are paying for a tummy tuck and happen to have an umbo hernia, the repair can usually be easily performed by the plastic surgeon at the same time. If the hernia is not a big deal, I don’t charge anything extra for the repair.
Strongly agree with Dr Johnson. You most likely do not require an abdominoplasty to fix/repair your umbilical hernia. Get you symptomatic umbilical hernia fixed through your insurance carrier. Do not expect to get cosmetic surgery like an abdominoplasty with hernia repair as a covered service by your insurance carrier. Best,
Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
I agree with the two previous responses that umbilical hernia repair does not require an abdominoplasty. You should consult a general surgeon as they perform most umbilical hernia repairs.
While repair of umbilical hernia is covered by insurance, Abdominoplasty is not covered. To repair an umbilical hernia at a time of a tummy tuck is best because it leaves no additional scars, and is usually done in a more secure way.
You have a small simple umbilical hernia that does not require an abdominoplasty. Insurance will not cover this as it is a cosmetic operation.
You have a small simple umbilical hernia without any abdominal skin sagging that does not require an abdominoplasty.