The Ultimate Guide To Getting Breast Augmentation Covered By Insurance

How to Get Your Breast Reduction Covered By Insurance RealSelf News from www.realself.com

Breast augmentation surgery has become a popular cosmetic procedure in recent years. However, not everyone can afford the hefty price tag that comes with it. Thankfully, some insurance companies do cover breast augmentation under certain circumstances. In this article, we will share with you everything you need to know to get your breast augmentation covered by insurance.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts. It involves the use of implants to increase breast volume or fat transfer from other parts of the body to the breasts. Breast augmentation is usually done for cosmetic reasons, but it can also be done for reconstructive purposes after breast cancer surgery.

Step 1: Check Your Insurance Policy

The first step in getting your breast augmentation covered by insurance is to check your insurance policy. Some insurance policies cover breast augmentation under certain circumstances, such as reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy or congenital breast deformities. However, most insurance policies do not cover breast augmentation for cosmetic purposes. Make sure to read your policy thoroughly and check with your insurance provider to see what is covered.

Step 2: Get a Physician’s Referral

If you believe you have a medical reason for getting breast augmentation, you will need to get a physician’s referral. Make an appointment with your primary care physician or a specialist in breast surgery to discuss your options. Your physician will need to document your medical history, perform a physical exam, and provide a diagnosis that supports the medical necessity of breast augmentation. Your physician’s referral will be crucial in getting your insurance provider to cover the procedure.

Step 3: Submit a Pre-Authorization Request

Once you have a physician’s referral, you will need to submit a pre-authorization request to your insurance provider. This request should include all the relevant medical records, such as your physician’s referral, imaging studies, and any other documentation that supports the medical necessity of breast augmentation. Your insurance provider will review your request and determine whether or not to cover the procedure. If your request is denied, you can appeal the decision and provide additional documentation to support your case.

Other Ways to Get Breast Augmentation Covered by Insurance

If your insurance policy does not cover breast augmentation, there are still other ways to get the procedure covered. Here are a few options to consider:

Option 1: Medical Tourism

Medical tourism is the practice of traveling to another country for medical treatment. Some countries offer breast augmentation surgery at a fraction of the cost in the United States. While this option may be more affordable, it comes with risks, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of regulation in some countries.

Option 2: Payment Plans

Some plastic surgeons offer payment plans to help make breast augmentation more affordable. These plans allow you to pay for the procedure over time, rather than all at once. However, be aware that these plans may come with interest and fees.

Option 3: Medical Credit Cards

Medical credit cards are another option to consider. These cards work like regular credit cards, but they are specifically designed for medical expenses. They often come with low or no interest rates and flexible payment plans.

Option 4: Fundraising

Crowdfunding websites, such as GoFundMe, can be used to raise money for breast augmentation surgery. While this option may be effective, it can also be challenging to ask for donations for a cosmetic procedure.

Conclusion

Getting breast augmentation covered by insurance can be a challenging process, but it is possible. Make sure to check your insurance policy, get a physician’s referral, and submit a pre-authorization request to your insurance provider. If your insurance policy does not cover breast augmentation, consider other options, such as medical tourism, payment plans, medical credit cards, or fundraising. Whatever option you choose, make sure to do your research and choose a reputable plastic surgeon who can provide you with the best results.

Steps to Getting Breast Augmentation Covered by Insurance	Other Ways to Get Breast Augmentation Covered by Insurance
Step 1: Check Your Insurance Policy	Option 1: Medical Tourism
Step 2: Get a Physician’s Referral	Option 2: Payment Plans
Step 3: Submit a Pre-Authorization Request	Option 3: Medical Credit Cards
	Option 4: Fundraising

Source: www.realself.com