Obtaining Insurance Coverage for Your Rhinoplasty

A substantial number of people have shown apprehension in undergoing a rhinoplasty procedure thanks to the exorbitant costs often associated with the procedure. The unfortunate fact is that few people actually conduct research into the ways one can offset the cost of this surgery. Although you may have heard some disparage this claim, insurance companies will extend coverage to policy holders for a rhinoplasty surgery. This of course is on a case-by-case basis. Coverage may also be partially granted depending on the circumstances.

Individuals aspiring to receive this procedure for mere aesthetic purposes have little hope in obtaining coverage. Insurance companies will deny coverage for a surgery that is merely elective. Any variables that render the treatment a medical necessity in your particular circumstances are grounds for full or partial coverage.

Those hoping to receive the procedure to enhance the functionality of their nose may be covered. The patient him or herself, however, will not be reporting directly to the insurance company. Rather, their doctor will need to speak with the carrier to inform them of the patient's circumstances. Paperwork will likely be involved, however, it will be completed by your physician. Once everything is submitted for review, it will be up to the insurance company to either approve or deny the claim.

Most insurance companies will agree to piggyback at least some of the cost of your rhinoplasty if you have evidenced that it will be able to improve your health. Individuals who were born with a nasal deformity or sustained some injury that hindered the functionality of their nose stand the best chances in obtaining coverage from their insurance provider. In such circumstances, the procedure is no longer considered cosmetic but rather reconstructive. You will have to wait an extended period of time before you hear back from your insurance company. As such, start dealing with the insurance aspect well before you intend to receive the procedure.

Typical problems found amongst those planning to receive a rhinoplasty for medical reasons include breathing issues, as well as persistent (and at times pulsating) headaches. A common misconception is that a rhinoplasty surgery can correct a deviated septum. This is not the case. A septoplasty is performed to correct a deviated septum. The predominant characteristic that sets these two apart is that one is considered elective, while the other a medical necessity. Nose deformities that cause breathing problems and the like can contribute to the development of other conditions, placing the patient in danger and discomfort. Hence, these patients are very eligible for coverage.

Although those who request coverage often try to make a convincing argument for their cause, sometimes insurance companies outright deny their claim. Just because you receive a denial letter in the mail does not mean it is the end of the road. You can pursue your rhinoplasty procedure by filing an appeal with the insurance company.

Protocols for going about this can widely vary, hence, you should conduct the needed research. Try to get as familiarized as possible with your insurance policy and thereafter correspond with the correct parties to pursue an appeal. Be ready to provide your carrier with additional documentation if requested.

Be sure to have any pertinent material on-hand to forward to your insurance company. Don't be lazy, as it is really not in your best interest to piggyback the cost of the procedure. The entire process can be time consuming, however, in the end it can be equally as rewarding.

May 14 2009 | Rhinoplasty | No Comments »

Choosing A Plastic Surgeon

The most serious decision you may have to make after you've decided to have plastic surgery is who your doctor may be. You'll probably want to check that your cosmetic surgeon belongs to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. You definitely will want to make sure each cosmetic surgeon you are thinking about is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You may want to initially do some research online, looking up each cosmetic surgeon and checking out his or her website. You may need to secretly find out more about your doctor by thinking about creative ways to learn more about him or her.

After this initial phase of research you'll come up with a list of five or six plastic surgeons who can perform the procedures you want. Call the offices of each doctor and set up an initial appointment. Most doctors do not charge for this visit. In busy surgeon's offices it can take a couple months to actually get an initial appointment, but don't be discouraged.

Remember: your relationship with your plastic surgeon will be more than just the normal relationship between a doctor and a patient. Your plastic surgeon will be responsible for modifying your body permanently, so having a good relationship built on clear understanding is important. At each meeting with your prospective doctor ask plenty of questions and take notes not only on what is said but also on how he or she talks to you.

After all your office visits you should probably have your pick between one or two cosmetic surgeons who really jumped out in your interview process. At this point you may want to think about all the costs, payment options and even what hospital the cosmetic surgeon will be using. Given the choice between two qualified cosmetic surgeons who use different hospitals, you definitely should pick the one with the more experienced staff and cleanermore modern facilities.

If you still can't choose between one or two cosmetic surgeons you will probably want to begin listing the pros and cons of each and talking about them with relatives that you respect. Once you've chosen your surgeon and have scheduled the surgery you can sit back and relax, knowing that you've made the correct choice by picking the best plastic surgeon that fits your needs and wants!

May 12 2009 | Cosmetic Surgery | No Comments »