Rhinoplasty Costs and What Insurance May Cover
Posted on November 24, 2007
Filed Under Health |
Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a “nose job,” is becoming more common, but it is still a costly procedure - especially if it is being performed solely for cosmetic reasons. The only way to know the exact cost of rhinoplasty is to consult with a plastic surgeon, but you can bet on some average costs.
Initial Consultation Fee
In order to find out whether rhinoplasty is right for you, you will need to talk to a plastic surgeon who will evaluate your skin and facial features. During this consultation, he will also determine whether or not your surgery is medically necessary. Cosmetic surgeries are not covered by insurance, but if you need the surgery in order to improve your breathing insurance may pay all or part of the cost.
The initial consultation must be set up through the doctors office, and you should consider getting recommendations from friends and associates before making the appointment. A consultation can run from $150 to $300 or more depending on the area of the country and the quality of the surgeon.
If you really want or need to have a rhinoplasty procedure, you must be willing to pay for this cost out of pocket. Some insurance companies will reimburse the cost of the consultation, but most will require that it come out of your pocket.
Average Rhinoplasty Cost
Rhinoplasty procedures in the United States average between $3000 and $8000 for the entire procedure, though some specialty plastic surgeons may charge even more. This average cost includes the surgical procedure, the anesthesia fee, and the facility fee. Initial consultations and follow-up visits may add to the total cost. The cost will depend on the type of procedure you are having as well, so ask your surgeons office to give you a breakdown of the numbers.
What Insurance Does NOT Cover
Insurance does not cover purely cosmetic rhinoplasty surgeries. If you think your nose is too big or too crooked, the insurance company isnt likely to care. They will refuse to pay any related costs.
What Insurance Does Cover
Insurance will usually cover any procedure that is considered medically necessary. For example, if a child is suffering from a birth defect like a cleft palate, most insurance companies are willing to pay part or all of the cost. If you are having difficulty breathing due to some type of accident or illness, insurance companies will often agree to pay at least a portion of the cost of a rhinoplasty.
Check with Your Insurance Provider
Always double check the numbers and rules with both your doctor and your insurance provider. Most doctors offices will handle all the insurance claims for you, but you may need to double check on coverage with your insurance company before the procedure. Remember to get their agreement (how much theyll pay and when theyll pay it) in writing so that they cant change their minds.
Dealing with the Cost
Rhinoplasty cost can be very high for certain procedures. One solution is to talk to your rhinoplasty surgeon about a financing program; many doctors will offer this option to their patients, particularly those who want rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons. Gather the information and then make an educated decision about rhinoplasty.