Question:
I would like to hear from people who have United Healthcare and had

An Abdomnioplasty or panni. How are they about paying? Did you have any trouble with them concerning the medically necessity of the procedure? Even if they wouldn't pay for WLS?    — [Anonymous] (posted on September 5, 2001)


September 5, 2001
I have the same insurance and would like to know the same question. Thanks for asking this.
   — Betty Todd

September 5, 2001
I was refused coverage of any part of my WLS surgery by United Healthcare of Ohio (other United Healthcare states may vary). The coverage (according to their refusal letter to me) was NOT refused on the basis of medical necessity, but on the basis of what the company for which I used to work AGREED TO when they purchased medical insurance from United Healthcare. If there is a loophole of any size, United Healthcare will insinuate themselves through it so as not to have to lay out any money, despite its insureds having paid for coverage. I certainly wish you luck in getting coverage from them for what is an elective cosmetic procedure (according to the coverage in my former company's employee medical insurance brochure). And don't forget to read the fine print! Margie B
   — Marjorie B.

September 5, 2001
I was approved after the first letter. It took ten days for approval.
   — [Anonymous]

September 6, 2001
It all depends on the individual policy you have. My UHC policy paid 100% for the Duodenal Switch and 100% for abdominoplasty, hernia repair, and breast reduction. Was approved in 3 days. They're awesome!
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 6, 2001
Well, I am not sure what abdomnioplasty is exactly but I have UHC and once the paperwork got into the right hands, I was approved for the VBG in less than 24 hours. So far they have been real good about everything. It could depend on the company you work for. I am with The Limited CO. Hope this helps.
   — Cyndi D.

September 7, 2001
I have United Healthcare and know that there is a specific exclusion for abdominoplasty. I haven't tried to appply for the panni but am hoping there might be a chance of that. I also need to have my breasts done but don't have a clue how I could qualify for a "reduction" since there isn't much left. All I can say is read your handbook carefully. There should be a section that lists what is and isn't covered. Good luck and keep us posted as to what happens.
   — georgiacarol

September 15, 2001

   — Joelle B.

February 24, 2003
i'm sorry that you are having such a hard time with the insurance {UHC}. this is the same insurance that my husband has, i don't even work and they approved my surgery today, i did however find out that something was missing from my package however i don't know what it was as they called my doctors office an they faxed the needed paperwork to them friday and i was approved when i called to bug them to hurry them get me approved so that i could hurry to be a loser. my paperwork was sent in on january the 27th i do believe, however they claimed that they didn't receive it until feburary 10th. so from feburary til now feburary 24th thats a total of 14 days to approval. i hope this helps you. and have a great life not just a good day. here's wishing you stay in GOD'S grace forever. darlene campbell p.s. e-mail if you think i can be of any aid
   — darlene C.

October 2, 2005
Finally...I got my "Tips for Getting Your Plastic Surgery Approved" worksheet on my website. It will help individuals who have medically necessary issues get their plastic surgery covered, at least in part, by insurance. Check www.drlomonaco.com under "Patient Resources"
   — DrL




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