Labiaplasty offers both physical and emotional benefits for women who dislike the look and projection of their labia minora. But is this procedure covered by health insurance? This blog discusses what benefits patients can expect from labiaplasty, what is and isn’t generally covered by health insurance, and how to pay for cosmetic surgery.
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Considering Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the size and length of the labia minora, or inner vaginal lips. Patients seek this procedure when the size of their labia makes it difficult to participate in certain activities like biking or running; their labia makes them feel self-conscious and unconfident with intimacy; or the size of their labia causes physical discomfort, be it from pinching or pulling, or through hygienic issues.
In any case, the goal of labiaplasty is to create a more uniform, neat appearance to the labia minora, effectively “tucking in” the excess tissue. The benefits are numerous, but does insurance cover the cost of this procedure?
When Will Insurance Cover Labiaplasty?
In most cases, insurance companies will not cover or approve labiaplasty. This is because insurance is meant to cover the cost of medically necessary procedures essential for the maintenance of health, that are preventive, or procedures that improve quality of life. It’s a hard sell to get cosmetic procedures covered in any way by insurance companies, because cosmetic or aesthetic procedures are not necessary for health, even if they contribute to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Procedures such as reconstructive surgery—correcting a congenital disability or an injury—can be covered by insurance because these procedures are considered medically necessary to correct an abnormality. So, while part of reconstructive surgery is cosmetic, ultimately it is considered separate from straightforward aesthetic procedures like breast augmentation.
What About the Pain Associated with Elongated Labia Minora?
It’s true, some women experience discomfort and pain associated with their elongated labia minora. The delicate skin of this area can be easily pinched or pulled during physical exercise or chafe during daily life. And while these issues are certainly a problem for patients, they are generally not considered dire enough for insurance to cover labiaplasty.
Options for Labiaplasty
Even if insurance won’t cover your labiaplasty, you still have options for your procedure. Most plastic surgeons offer financing options, such as Cherry. These flexible financing options give patients the opportunity to finance their procedures however they’d like, relieving some of the financial stress and burden that comes with elective procedures like labiaplasty.
Choosing the Right Labiaplasty Surgeon
Perhaps more important is your choice of surgeon. All cosmetic procedures are an investment in yourself; they improve your physical appearance and emotional well-being by boosting confidence and addressing insecurities. So when you choose to undergo a procedure with the potential to help yourself, it’s important to choose the right surgeon who can help you get there.
Dr. Gary Alter is considered one of the leading experts in labiaplasty surgery, as the inventor of modern techniques for the procedure, including the central wedge, or Alter “V” technique. Dr. Alter is world-renowned for his expertise in the field, offering unique perspectives as a board-certified plastic surgeon and urologist, with over 30 years of experience.
Choosing an experienced, knowledgeable surgeon is a much more important priority than focusing solely on cost. By choosing a surgeon who understands the nuances of the procedure, you are signing up for a much better chance of success and a much more satisfying surgical result and experience.
Want to Learn More About Labiaplasty in Beverly Hills?
Call Dr. Gary Alter today at either his Beverly Hills, CA, office at (310) 275-5566 or his New York City office at (212) 321-0749 to schedule an appointment and learn how labiaplasty can help you restore your confidence.