Call to speak to a Licensed Insurance Agent

866-420-4593

Mon - Fri 8am – 8pm EST; Sat - Sun 10am - 6pm EST

does medicare cover tummy tucks

Does Medicare Cover Tummy Tucks?

Though many people get tummy tucks (Abdominoplasty) for cosmetic reasons, this surgery can also use one’s health and wellness. There are specific medical reasons why one should have tummy tuck surgery, including correcting some abnormalities caused by a disease or surgery.

So a common question many people have is, “Does Medicare cover Tummy Tucks?” In this article, we answer the question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of Tummy Tuck surgery, as well as other helpful info.

Does Medicare Cover Tummy Tucks?

The short answer is yes; Medicare will cover the cost of tummy tuck surgeries. But only in limited situations. As is often the case with Medicare, you have to meet certain in order for Medicare to pay for your tummy tuck surgeries. Below we look at what these are so you know what to expect.

Despite its cosmetic nature, Medicare may provide coverage for a tummy tuck surgery after a weight loss surgery. This is because excess skins may cause rashes or infections.

However, Medicare will only provide coverage for it as long as it is medically necessary and is not for cosmetic purposes. They will cover tummy tuck surgeries if it is will restore function and/or repair an injury.

Medicare will also reimburse tummy tuck surgery if it is to treat abdominal wall defects or a hernia.

How Much Does Tummy Tuck Cost?

Tummy tuck surgery costs an average of around $4,500. For a traditional tummy tuck, the cost can be around $9,000. For an extended tummy tuck, the cost can get up into the $20,000 range.

The final total will depend a lot on how much work you have done.

What Is A Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tucks, also known as Abdominoplasty, remove loose and excess skin after weight loss or giving birth. In addition to that, it gives a flat abdominal section and a much firmer shape.

The procedure uses general anesthesia, and it takes about 3-5 hours. After that, the area operated on will be stitched and bandaged. Genreally the patient will stay at the hospital for a few nights.

For proper recovery, the patient must avoid doing strenuous activities and must have time off from work. If the patient has fully recovered, he/she can resume doing everyday activities and work.

Tummy tuck surgery is not permanent and will not stay if proper diet and exercise are not observed. Both adequate diet and exercise are recommended not only to maintain appearance but also good health.

What Are The Medical Benefits Of A Tummy Tuck

Though tummy tuck surgery is known for its cosmetic effects, it also has many benefits for your overall health and wellness, which includes:

  • Restoration of abdominal muscles torn during pregnancy and labor
  • Removal of excess skin that can cause rashes and skin irritation
  • Treatment of urinary incontinence that commonly occurs after giving birth
  • It also reduces back pain that women typically experience after giving birth

Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Always be sure to double check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.

Additional Info on Medicare Coverage

This article is part of our series on “What does Medicare cover?”

Also, you can check out other articles in this series including: Does Medicare cover hypnotherapy?

Avatar photo
mpt-admin