In 2002 I had a life saving emergency ileocolectomy after my bowel was perforated during a laparoscopic endometriosis removal surgery. I developed peritonitis and went all sorts of septic. While I've always worn my scar as a badge of honor, not so much the two pouches of skin that adorn it on either side. Can I get insurance to cover the removal of this skin, or any sort of scar revision surgery?
This is mainly cosmetic but you could have a great result with an abdominoplasty. Option could be going to an academic center where they may do under insurance or low fee. There are also many financing options if you would want to go down that path.
Interesting problem. I would begin with immediate treatment to mitigate your existing scars. This would entail vbeam laser, fractional laser, and at-home Sequel Scar Defense Serum if you were my patient. Once there is Scar Equilibrium, then I would opt for surgical revision of your abdomen.
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Los Angeles
Sorry to hear that you had to go through this and glad you are in better health now! This actually may be considered reconstructive. You would need to meet with a plastic surgeon as well as look at the guidelines from your insurance company. Stuff like this can be found in a document called the Summary Plan description which outlines exactly what they will and they will not cover.
Best of luck!
It can be much better with skin tailoring and precise wound layers and edges closure, you can consult a nearby board certified plastic surgeon
An abdominoplasty would help your situation. Unfortunately, this is a cosmetic operation and no insurance company including Medicare or Medicaid will pay for it.
No, that would be strictly a cosmetic surgery for this purpose and not eligible for insurance coverage