Is Rhinoplasty Covered by Insurance?

A nose job can be life-changing. Whether you have a life-long lack of confidence because of an oddly shaped nose or you suffer from frequent sinus infections due to nasal deformity, rhinoplasty can significantly improve your quality of life.  But when it comes to nose job insurance coverage, functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty are not created equal. Every insurance plan is different, so you’ll need to check with your provider to determine whether your rhinoplasty procedure is covered, but typically insurance companies will only pay for functional rhinoplasty. Here’s what you need to know about what types of rhinoplasty San Diego are covered by insurance. 

Types of functional rhinoplasty covered by insurance

Although some cosmetic surgeries would be difficult to spin as medically necessary, there are a number of different medical reasons that rhinoplasty is needed. Achieving facial harmony with a cute button nose is not the only reason for a nose job.  Here are a few more:

• Nasal fracture – When a broken nose (nasal fracture) does not heal correctly, it can lead to breathing problems that can only be corrected with reconstructive nose surgery. The exact procedures used will depend on the severity of the break. Broken nose reconstruction surgery may involve repairing the nasal bones, which should be covered by insurance. 
• Deviated septum – The nasal septum is a thin wall of bone and cartilage between the nasal passages. Ideally, the two halves of the inner nose are equal in size, but when the septum is off-center (deviated), not only does it cause the nose to appear crooked, but it can also cause significant issues with breathing as well as frequent sinus infections and nosebleeds. Septoplasty surgery can often correct both the structural and cosmetic issues. 
• Cleft palate/cleft lip – Nasal deformities caused by cleft of the lip and palate can impair nasal airway and compromise breathing.  Cleft rhinoplasty involves repair of the nasal structure and appearance. The procedure is considered reconstructive and is typically covered by insurance. 
• Polyps – Nasal polyps are growths that develop on the inside of the nose. Although soft and painless, if the polyps are large enough, they can obstruct the nasal passage, cause snoring and frequent sinus headaches as well as other health complications. Nasal polyps can also distort the shape of the nose. When the polyps do not respond to more conservative interventions, rhinoplasty can be used to remove the polyps and correct the associated problems. 
• Other structural abnormalities – When nasal deformities cause congestion, mouth breathing, reduced sense of smell, and any number of other functional concerns, rhinoplasty can address those concerns and restore optimal function.  

Functional rhinoplasty can significantly improve the quality of life for those whose nasal abnormalities and structural issues cause difficulty breathing, frequent sinus infections, and other medical concerns. In many cases, once the structural issues have been resolved, the nose will also settle into a more pleasing appearance. But that isn’t always the case.

Combining functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty 

If additional cosmetic changes are desired in order to enhance facial harmony, they can be addressed during the same time as the reconstructive or functional surgery.  Additional procedures may involve:

• Changes to nostril width
• Removal of visible hump in the bridge
• Correction of asymmetry
• Modifications to the nasal tip

It’s important to note that even when functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty are done simultaneously, insurance typically does not cover the cosmetic components of the surgery.  However, there are other benefits to combining functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty surgeries. Not only will you be able to achieve a more pleasing appearance, but you may also significantly reduce the cost of your cosmetic procedure. Depending on your surgeon’s policies, you may be able to save money by paying only once for the anesthesiologist and use of the operating room. Additionally, you’ll have a single recovery period, saving you time and discomfort as well. 

Functional and Cosmetic Rhinoplasty in San Diego | Feel Beautiful  

Only people who have had functional or aesthetic issues with their nose understand how much it can get in the way of self-esteem and everyday quality of life. The better we breathe, the better we feel. And the more confidence we have in our health and appearance, the more likely we are to enjoy the pleasures of life. Whether you’re seeking a functional or cosmetic nose job, you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Laverson is the best nose job surgeon in San Diego. As a rhinoplasty specialist, he has performed countless nose jobs, both functional and cosmetic.  Dr. Laverson is well-known for his skill, precision, and artistry, as well as his compassion and open communication. 

During your nose job consultation at Feel Beautiful, Dr. Laverson will perform a thorough physical examination and evaluate your breathing history in order to determine whether your nasal passages are functioning properly. It’s important that you provide him with as much information as you can about any trauma or conditions that may be the cause of your breathing problems, if you have any. If Dr. Laverson finds that your breathing function will be improved by a nose job, a pre-authorization letter can be sent to your insurance company to determine the estimate of your benefits. 

For more information on the different types of rhinoplasty procedures, or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Laverson, give us a call at (858) 295-4001 today.