Would you like to know if a tummy tuck procedure – also known as abdominoplasty – is covered by Medicare?
In recent years, the eligibility requirements for a rebate for this type of surgery has changed.
In fact, abdominoplasty used to be covered under Medicare for women who required this procedure after childbirth, but this ceased in 2016.
Now Medicare only covers abdominoplasty procedures if they are related to significant weight loss.
In this article, we discuss who qualifies for a concession in greater detail.
Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Covered by Medicare?
Not all tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedures are covered by Medicare.
To be eligible for a rebate, patients must meet the following requirements:
- Loss of at least 5 BMI (body mass index) points, plus weight must be stable for at least six (6) months
- Intertrigo (inflammation caused by the running of one area of skin on another) which has failed at least 3 months of conservative treatment (a treatment that is not surgery, ie. topical creams)
- The excess redundant skin affects activities of daily living
- Eligible patients who have a high tier of private health cover for plastic surgery may also be entitled to a rebate on the procedure and may have their hospital fee covered.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Medicare Item Numbers
Dr Samuel Yang, our experienced Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon, performs a number of tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) operations for patients in Brisbane.
The Medicare item numbers which are relevant to those are 30165, 30177, for those who would like to find out more.
We also discuss various abdominoplasty operations and who is an ideal candidate for one of these procedures in our blog here.
To schedule an in-person consultation with Dr Yang, send us an online enquiry here or give us a call today on (07) 3257 7950.
Dr Samuel Yang is an experienced plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon based in Brisbane.
A fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a member of both the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Australian Medical Association, Dr Yang has been practising in both the private and public systems since 2013.
While the Queensland-trained surgeon can help with all plastic surgery needs, he has special interest in abdominoplasty, skin cancer and melanoma, breast surgery, face lifts and blepharoplasty.
Dr Yang aims to help his patients pick the best surgical option based on the desired result, and ensures they are comfortable and informed before making any commitment.
For more information or to book a consultation, please contact our friendly team on (07) 3257 7950 today or enquire online here.
