10/13/2026
DID YOU KNOW YOUR INSURANCE MAY COVER RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY?
Many people assume that plastic surgery is always an out-of-pocket expense. But that’s not necessarily true.
There’s an important difference between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery.
Cosmetic surgery is typically performed to improve appearance and is generally not covered by insurance.
Reconstructive surgery, however, may be medically necessary to restore function, correct certain abnormalities, or repair damage caused by injury, disease, or previous surgery.
Depending on your insurance plan and medical circumstances, coverage may be available for:
• Breast reconstruction following mastectomy
• Certain procedures to correct congenital abnormalities
• Reconstruction after traumatic injuries
• Some procedures following skin cancer removal
• Surgery to correct functional problems or complications from previous procedures.
Here’s what I always encourage patients to understand:
Just because a procedure is performed by a plastic surgeon doesn’t automatically make it cosmetic.
And just because a procedure is reconstructive doesn’t guarantee insurance coverage.
Medical necessity, documentation, your specific insurance benefits, and sometimes prior authorization all play a role.
If you’re considering reconstructive surgery, start by discussing your medical needs and insurance requirements with your surgeon and insurance provider.
You may have more options than you realize.
Dr. Pawel Stachowicz, M.D.
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
30+ Years of Experience
Recognized on Minnesota Monthly’s 2023 list of Top Plastic Surgeons
📍 Authentic Plastic Surgery
1415 W 35th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55408
📱 (612) 770-1995
Text to start your FREE consultation.
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