5 Plastic Surgeries That May Be Covered By Insurance
Not all plastic surgeries are cosmetic surgeries. There are many plastic surgeries that are in fact “medical” rather than “cosmetic” surgeries, because they correct a functional problem for the patient, and the accompanying aesthetic improvements are just a bonus. Here are some surgeries that insurance or Medisave may cover, and also some procedures are NOT covered.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
If droopy eyelids (ptosis) or loose eyelid skin (dermatochalasis) is blocking your vision, then the surgery to lift the eyelids to improve your visual field may be considered a medical procedure. How do I know if I have ptosis? Your eyelid is drooping to the extent that it is partially covering your iris (black of the eye). Your eyelids and forehead may feel fatigued from the strain of the dire attempt to lift up your eyelids to see better.
Not Covered: If your vision is not affected, upper eyelid surgeries are generally not covered.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Surgeries for the lower eyelids rarely covered, unless they result in exposure or irritation of the globe of the eye. Ectropion is a condition where the lower eyelid is pulled downwards and outwards, often by previous surgeries or accidents or aging. When the eyelid turns inwards, this is known as entropion. In this condition, the lash turns inwards too, rubbing the eye surface and causing immense discomfort, ulceration and visual problems in severe cases.
Not Covered: Loose lower eyelid skin and eyebags with any eye disturbances.
Breast Reduction
Overly large breasts, also known as breast hypertrophy, macromastia or gigantomastia, can give rise to disabling symptoms such as back/shoulder/neck pain and recurrent rash or infection under the breast folds. To qualify the surgery as a medical rather than a surgical procedure, a substantial mass of breast tissue also needs to be removed from each breast. A plastic surgeon will be able to advise you if your surgery meets the criteria. After the surgery, the symptoms are alleviated and the breasts are aesthetically lifted.
Not Covered: Breast implant augmentation, breast lift (mastopexy) and small size breast reduction without meeting the weight criteria.
Septorhinoplasty
If nasal deviation causes blockage of the nasal passage, a septorhinoplasty to straighten the nose to improve your airway may be covered. This condition can be developmental or caused by an accident.
Not Covered: Pure cosmetic rhinoplasty or nose job, that only cosmetically enhances the nose.
Post-Bariatric Surgery
After massive weight loss following bariatric surgery, removing the excess loose skin as a result of fat loss may be covered by your healthcare subsidies.
Not Covered: Body contouring and liposuction not due to massive weight loss.
About Our Plastic Surgeons
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
MBBS, MRCS, MMed, FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Jonah Kua is experienced in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, with a particular focus on double eyelid surgery. He previously served as the Head of the Plastic Surgery Service at Changi General Hospital and was the National Program Director in Plastic Surgery at Singapore General Hospital. Dr Kua is also the recipient of dual fellowship awards in the United Kingdom and South Korea. At his practice, Dr Kua combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of individual eyelid structures to achieve natural-looking and beautiful results.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
MBBS, MRCS, MMed, FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Chia Hui Ling has undergone advanced fellowship training in plastic surgery in South Korea and the United Kingdom, bringing international expertise to reconstructive and aesthetic procedures. She has special interests in facial plastic surgery, facial rejuvenation, breast reconstruction and microsurgery, and is known for her meticulous attention to detail and personalised approach to patient care. By combining advanced surgical techniques with evidence-based practice, Dr Chia develops individualised treatment plans that prioritise safety, function and natural-looking outcomes for every patient.
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