There is no denying that cosmetic surgery can come with a hefty price tag. There are a variety of reasons why someone may wish to have cosmetic surgery performed. But for some it is not always possible due to financial restraints. Many people look to financing options when considering costly cosmetic procedures. But if you are looking to finance cosmetic surgery you may have wondered, does insurance cover cosmetic surgery?
The answer to this question will vary from person to person. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your procedure your government or independent health insurance may cover some or all of your procedure. In most cases, if there are no extenuating circumstances or medical need, procedures will not be covered for esthetic purposes.
What Procedures Are Typically Covered?
Procedures covered by insurance are typically in relation to a medical need. Most provincial government healthcare does cover some cosmetic surgeries. It is hard to know if your desired cosmetic surgery will be covered under insurance without consulting a doctor.
There is a wide range of coverage available to patients in Ontario. It is important to speak with your doctor about your medical concerns and allow them to help you get the resources you need.
Does OHIP Cover Any Procedures?
OHIP does not cover cosmetic surgery for esthetical purposes. But it can cover a variety of procedures based on a medical need. Below is a list of some of the cosmetic procedures that you may qualify for if you have a medical condition. Remember that these procedures are for medical purposes and not cosmetic purposes.
Rhinoplasty – rhinoplasty could be covered if you have a condition that is affecting your breathing. Though the procedure may not be a transformative one. This service is covered for the purposes of correcting a problem that affects the patient’s breathing.
Mole Removal – mole removal is commonly covered. This is often due to a doctor’s concerns about the safety of a mole. Moles may develop cancer and can be removed as a precautionary measure for eliminating risk.
Breast Reduction – large breasts can be painful and cause issues for some women. For this reason, breast reduction surgery is often covered by OHIP. The procedure must be approved by a doctor and only certain methods of the procedure are covered.
Breast Reconstruction – cancer survivors should know that breast reconstruction surgery is available to them. Women who have had a mastectomy are eligible to have this procedure covered by OHIP.
Panniculectomy – this procedure is often partially covered by OHIP to remove excess skin after extreme weight loss of weight loss surgery. Shaping or muscle tightening is not covered as part of this procedure. Other weight loss related procedures may also be available to you.
Blepharoplasty – this procedure is covered for patients who require it to correct severe vision impairment. It is not available for esthetic purposes.
Otoplasty – this procedure is covered for patients under the age of 18.
For more information on what is and is not covered by OHIP you should speak with your doctor. They will be able to give you the most accurate information as they are the ones determining what is and is not medically necessary. The Government of Ontario provides a wealth of information on OHIP coverage.
Does Private Insurance Cover Cosmetic Surgery?
Many people have personal health insurance in addition to health insurance provided by their province. Whether the insurance plan is through your workplace or purchased on your own, you may have some benefits that relate to cosmetic surgery.
In most cases private insurance plans will cover some of the costs associated with surgery that has been deemed medically necessary. They may not cover the costs of the surgery itself but will cover equipment needed during recovery.
It is important to have a full understanding of your medical insurance before obtaining any medical procedure. Consider calling your insurance provider before you book a procedure to get a strong understanding of what will and will not be covered. No one likes costly surprises. Don’t get caught off guard by an insurance company that does not cover your needs.
What are My Financing Options?
When you are looking to fund a cosmetic surgery that is not covered by OHIP you may not know where to start. Some patients will opt to save up for a procedure and simply wait until they can pay for it in cash. Others may find that their needs are more urgent or that they would rather take advantage of financing options.
Many cosmetic surgery clinics such as NewDermaMed, offer financing options to their patients. You should always consider getting a quote ahead of time to understand all fees and costs associated with your procedure. Book a consultation to get the full picture on the procedure you desire.
You should also consider taking advantage of promotions to help cut down on the cost of your desired procedures. Check in with your preferred clinic to ensure you always stay up to date on any available cost savings.
How Can I find Out What I am Covered For?
In Ontario cosmetic surgeries are only covered for a medical need. To find out if you are covered under OSAP or another provincial healthcare plan you must speak with a medical doctor. They are the person who will be walking you through your cosmetic surgery journey.
Consider that cosmetic surgery is available for a wide range of cosmetic surgery. Though many are in relation to correcting a natural medical problem. Cosmetic surgery may sometimes be available for those recovering from accidents or those suffering from severe psychological distress.
Always call your private and government insurance providers first if you have questions about coverage. They are your best source of information and will help you prevent any costly surprises. Each case is unique and there is no definitive answer without consultation.
Remember that if your procedure is not covered you do have other options. Consider saving or financing when planning your cosmetic surgery procedures.
