When you think of plastic surgery, the first thoughts that conjure up inside your head are probably things like cosmetic breast implants and face lifts to look younger. Yes, it’s true that most people undergo these procedures purely for aesthetic enhancement. But at the same time, many need these procedures for reconstructive purposes. Fortunately, most health insurance policies usually offer some form of coverage when they deem a surgery is reconstructive in nature.

Here are a few of the most common procedures which are often classified as reconstructive:

Breast Reconstruction

During breast cancer treatment, it’s not uncommon for one or both breasts to be removed if they contain tumors and cancerous tissue. Of course doctors try and avoid this by using other methods such as radiation first, but when all else fails, it’s better to lose a body part than your life. Afterward, insurance will usually reimburse implants.

Another scenario is after heavy weight loss. After gastric bypass or lap band surgery, people are usually left with excess skin which needs to be surgically removed or lifted. However coverage is usually not as clear cut when it comes to this, so consult a breast augmentation forum or other online resource to compare your circumstances to that of other women who have similar experiences.

Functional Rhinoplasty

A surprisingly large percentage of the population suffers from some form of nasal blockage. This can arise from natural genetics or it can result from facial trauma. Whether it’s a deviated septum or a collapsed alar valve – it’s a problem which will not correct itself on its own. If it’s not for cosmetic reasons, there’s a good chance that this type of surgery will be covered by your insurance.

Skin Conditions

There’s a plethora of different skin ailments which can interfere with our health. Of course the most common one is acne. Most common during our adolescent years, this condition can be more than just a nuisance. Large cystic acne (acne vulgaris) can be painful and cause scarring. Fortunately there are a number of prescription creams, such as tretinoin cream, which can be effective at combating this frustrating condition. But when scarring occurs, a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon may need to utilize laser resurfacing, injectable fillers, or another technique in order to minimize the scar’s appearance. Depending on the circumstances, health insurance may cover this.

Of course coverage varies by policy, so it’s best to check with your provider and doctor to see if your condition is applicable.

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