Question:
plastic surgery

Does anyone know if Kaiser has approved plastic surgery for excess skin on stomachs and arms ? If so , what are the primary qualifications ? Under what circumstances will they pay for it ? Thank you,    — Sherry S. (posted on November 16, 2003)

November 16, 2003
I have Kaiser, Southern California. I am having a panniculectomy done. I will go in for my second consult next month, that's when I'll get my surgey date. I asked my PCP the criteria for coverage. He just said if it's causing discomfort I'll write the referral. I also asked for a breast reduction. The plastic surgeon does the surgeries separately. He asked me which caused more discomfort and focused on that. I am excited. I am 20 months post op. I have lost 156 pounds, and I have a lot of hanging skin. Good Luck.
   — Allison M.

November 16, 2003
I am Kaiser San Diego. I am 5 days post op panniculectomy and insicional hernia repair. I had a tandem surgry done by both General and Plastics. Kaiser here is veer stingy with approvals for plastics. But it starts with a referral from your PCP- one word of caution if you are in San Diego, reguest to NOT see Dr. Tan, she has refused many needy WLS patients-
   — ~~Stacie~~