Question about getting Tummy tuck covered
Ok - I am thinking about trying to get a tummy tuck covered by my insurance. I have looked up what Cigna covers and their requirements, but have a question that I hope someone here can help me with.
Here is what Cigna says in their Medical Coverage Policy:
Cigna covers panniculectomy, with or without abdominoplasty, as medically necessary when BOTH of the following conditions are met as demonstrated on preoperative photographs:
• Pannus hangs at or below the level of the symphysis pubis
• Pannus causes a chronic and persistent skin condition (e.g., intertriginous dermatitis, panniculitis, cellulitis or skin ulcerations) that is refractory to at least six months of medical treatment. In addition to good hygiene practices, treatment should include topical antifungals, topical and/or systemic corticosteroids, and/or local or systemic antibiotics.
So, exactly how far down does the pannus have to hang to be "at or below the level of the Symphysis pubis"? I looked up the symphysis pubis and know anatomically where it is on a skeleton - but in terms of hanging skin - what do you think we're talking about?
Also, for this chronic persistent skin condition, I'm assuming that the rash I get under my pannus when I'm hot and sweaty, will suffice for this. I just have to start going to the doctors for it, preferably after a hard weekend of working out or yard work.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Lori
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LoriAnn  5'7.5"
Pounds from Goal: 5.6
Century Club - 3/31/07 - Onederland - 4/30/07
Lowest Weight - February 26, 2008 - 149.8 (for one day)
"Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved."
- William Jennings Bryan
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