Does insurance cover rhinoplasty when it’s not done for cosmetic reasons? The answer is, generally, yes. If there is a functional or medical need for your rhinoplasty, most health insurance policies will pay for it.
There are some common reasons people may need functional rhinoplasty:
- Deviated septum
- Nasal polyps
- Enlarged turbinates
- Nasal valve collapse
What to Know about Having Insurance-Covered Rhinoplasty
If you’re thinking about having functional rhinoplasty covered by insurance, you should keep a few tips in mind:
- You’ll need to provide documentation. Your insurance company will probably ask you to provide multiple documents proving your medical need for rhinoplasty. This could include X-rays or letters from your doctor. Some insurance companies may require you to seek a second opinion on whether you really need to have corrective rhinoplasty.
- You might need to wait for reimbursement from your insurance company. Most plastic surgeons don’t work directly with insurance companies. Instead, be prepared to pay for your entire procedure out-of-pocket, then submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. At your rhinoplasty consultation, discuss financing and insurance options with your plastic surgeon, and make sure you get answers to your nose surgery questions.
- Your policy may be different from someone else’s. Don’t assume that your insurance policy covers the same things that your friend’s does. You’ll need to speak with a representative of your insurance company who can help explain whether non-cosmetic rhinoplasty is covered by your policy and, if so, how extensively.
Having Functional and Cosmetic Rhinoplasty Together
Many people choose to have cosmetic rhinoplasty done at the same time they are having functional issues fixed. Today’s nose job aims to blend functionality with aesthetics. Note that your insurance company will probably not cover any of the costs associated with the aesthetic portions of the procedure. Ask your insurance representative how this would break down.
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- 4 Must-Know Tips for an Easier Rhinoplasty Recovery
- Guys: Here’s How to Pick a Plastic Surgeon for Your Nose Job
Author: Dr. Waleed Ezzat
Dr. Waleed Ezzat is double board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology/head and neck surgery. At the Boston Center for Facial Plastics, he specializes in face, head and neck reconstructive procedures, congenital and traumatic deformities, and skin or tissue abnormalities resulting from a previous surgery or illness.
