Rhinoplasty is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, meaning it’s not covered by insurance. But, in some cases, rhinoplasty is considered medically necessary, so some policies may cover it. This blog discusses the differences between medical and cosmetic rhinoplasty.
4 Min Read:
Medical Rhinoplasty: When Rhinoplasty Is Covered By Insurance
When you first think of rhinoplasty, you probably think about someone wanting the procedure to fix the look of their nose. However, it’s very common for patients to undergo this procedure to improve the functional aspects of their nose, including its structure and breathing, making it a functional rhinoplasty.
Since insurance only covers what is deemed medically necessary, patients seeking financial assistance for their procedures need to prove that their case is necessary to improve their daily life. Some of the most common examples of functional rhinoplasty include correcting a deviated septum, addressing a nasal obstruction, or repairing a previous injury.
In addition to the procedure itself, you’ll need to have your surgeon sign off that your case is, in fact, medically necessary, and potentially provide pictures or other evidence that your nose is causing issues with breathing or some other concern.
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty: When Rhinoplasty Is Not Covered By Insurance
On the other hand, cosmetic rhinoplasty means the procedure is performed solely to change the aesthetic of the nose. In these cases, there is no functional or medical need for the procedure, so insurance does not cover it.
Medical vs. Cosmetic Differences
Medical rhinoplasty may treat the following breathing or structural issues:
- Deviated Septum. This is a very common medical issue in which the septum (the wall between the two nostrils) is crooked or displaced to one side. This condition can cause breathing difficulties, sinus problems, and problems sleeping. The procedure to remedy a deviated septum is called a septoplasty.
- Congenital Irregularities. Sometimes, people are born with abnormal structures to their nose that can cause breathing problems, functional issues, or other health issues. If this is the case, then remedying these concerns is a medical necessity.
- Injury or Trauma. Nose breaks are notorious for poor healing, which can cause issues later in life, affecting the shape and function of the nose. If a previous injury to the nose is causing breathing problems, this may be considered a medical necessity.
- Chronic Sinus Issues. A malformed nasal passage or damage to the nasal structure can cause recurrent sinusitis, requiring surgical intervention.
Cosmetic rhinoplasty can include the following:
- Nose Reshaping. Most patients desire a change to the overall shape or size of their nose to better suit their face.
- Tip Refinement. This delicate technique adjusts the tip of the nose, refining or lifting it.
- Bridge Alteration. One of the most common complaints from rhinoplasty patients is the bump or hump on the bridge of their nose. Bridge alteration can smooth or straighten irregularities.
- Nostril Refinement. Patients can also have their nostrils reshaped.
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is as complex as any other plastic surgery, in some ways more so. Patients receive highly customized surgical plans as the nose is such a central feature of the face—it’s crucial that their results are harmonious with both their natural facial features and their ideal goals.
What If My Rhinoplasty Is Cosmetic and Functional?
Remember back when celebrities were reluctant to admit they had cosmetic surgery and claimed the visible changes to their noses were from the treatment of a deviated septum? Now, we’re much more open and accepting of everyone’s right to improve their appearance however they’d like, but the idea of cosmetic changes under the guise of functional necessity still rings true today. Many rhinoplasty patients require both functional care and aesthetic improvement.
In these hybrid cases, in which the patient has both a functional need for the procedure and a cosmetic benefit, if insurance is involved, they may cover the functional aspect, such as a deviated septum, but not the cosmetic portion.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Rhinoplasty
Whether your rhinoplasty is cosmetic, medical, or a combination of both, you need to choose a plastic surgeon with the experience and a strong commitment to patient care to help you through this journey. Dr. Martin O’Toole and Dr. Adam O’Toole have provided their patients with just that—excellent care and results—for over 30 years. In your complimentary consultation, Drs. Martin and Adam O’Toole will discuss your options for rhinoplasty to help you decide if the procedure is right for you and what type of results you can expect.
Can I Finance My Rhinoplasty?
If insurance isn’t an option for you, Drs. Martin and Adam O’Toole offer multiple financing options to help you receive the treatment you deserve. Including popular aesthetic service lenders like CareCredit® and ALPHAEON® Credit, you can find a payment plan that’s right for you, including easy monthly payments, interest-free financing, and more.
Want To Learn More About Rhinoplasty in Pasadena, CA?
The first step toward improving your nose and overall aesthetic is to schedule a consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon. Call Pasadena Cosmetic Surgery today at (626) 449-8910 or complete our online contact form to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled plastic surgeons.