Question:
Yet another plastic surgery question on TT and implants

OK, I've been looking through the library questions, but I need to ask a fresh question. I am 16 months post and 3 pounds below goal. I was pregnant in between so I haven't noticed the bad skin problems until recently. My boobs have deflated and the extra skin on my tummy is so nasty. But, the extra skin doesn't cause rashes or anything so I'm afraid insurance won't pay. What is the best way to get started? Talk to Aetna about coverage? Schedule some surgical consults first? Do plastic surgeons usually do both procedures or usually specialize in each? Thanks so much!    — emilyfink (posted on November 6, 2003)

November 6, 2003
Hi Emily -- Have you looked at the Yahoo OSSG (obesity surgery support group) for WLS plastics patients? It's a great place to go lurk with questions like these. It's at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ossg-plasticsurgery/ <P>I'm still in the research stage and have my first plastics consult coming up. Like you, I don't think my insurance will cover mine, either. One thing you should know is that many plastic surgeons charge a fee even for the consult (ex., $75). I've noticed quite a few people have had their TT and BL/implants done at the same time, but I'm also wondering about the pros and cons of doing them together or separately, and then there's the big controversy about implant safety. Good luck (I know I'll need it, too!)
   — Suzy C.

November 6, 2003
Hi Emily, I have Aetna PPO and it looks like Aetna will generally pay for a TT following weightloss under certain conditions I think the main one is that the pannus has to extend below the pubis. Go to their site and check the policy bulletins (search for abdominoplasty). The boobs you will have to get done on your own. Hope this helps and Good Luck
   — Lisa F.

November 7, 2003
Aetna paid for my arms, tummy, hips, thighs, and butt. I don't think it would hurt to try. Also, I saw were someone had a breast lift with the TT (she paid for the implants) and Aetna paid for both. I would have requested the breasts from Aetna, but I thought I might be pushing my luck since they approved everything else (I just had to appeal the hips, thighs, and Butt). Good Luck!
   — Beffy W.

November 9, 2003
I had a breast lift, implants and abdominoplasty at the same time - same surgeon. My insurance didn't pay for it. I paid cash, right around $12k. Best way to get started is to go to a consult. They are generally free. They will submit info to your insurance to see if they will pay. If not, there are several companies out there that will finance cosmetic surgery.
   — Goldilauxx B.

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