**Getting Insurance to Pay for Orthognathic Surgery: A Reddit Community Guide**
Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure that can be life-changing for people with severe jaw deformities. However, the cost of surgery can be prohibitive, and many people struggle to get insurance to cover the expenses. In this Reddit community guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of how to get insurance to pay for orthognathic surgery, including tips, expert advice, and frequently asked questions.
Orthognathic surgery is a type of corrective jaw surgery that treats severe jaw deformities that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone. These deformities can cause a range of problems, including difficulty eating, speaking, and breathing. Orthognathic surgery can improve these functions and also improve the appearance of the face.
**Insurance Coverage for Orthognathic Surgery**
Most insurance plans do not cover orthognathic surgery unless it is deemed medically necessary. This means that the surgery must be necessary to correct a medical condition, such as a severe jaw deformity that is causing difficulty eating, speaking, or breathing. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, is typically not covered by insurance.
To get insurance to cover orthognathic surgery, you will need to provide your insurance company with documentation from your doctor that explains the medical necessity of the surgery. This documentation should include:
- A detailed description of your jaw deformity
- An explanation of how the deformity is affecting your health
- A recommended treatment plan, including orthognathic surgery
**Tips for Getting Insurance to Pay for Orthognathic Surgery**
Here are some tips for getting insurance to pay for orthognathic surgery:
- **Start by talking to your doctor.** Your doctor can help you determine if you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery and can provide you with the necessary documentation to support your insurance claim.
- **Be prepared to provide your insurance company with a lot of information.** This includes your medical history, a description of your jaw deformity, and an explanation of how it is affecting your health.
- **Be persistent.** It may take some time and effort to get your insurance company to approve coverage for orthognathic surgery. Don’t give up if your first claim is denied. Appeal the decision and provide your insurance company with as much information as possible to support your claim.
**Expert Advice**
“Orthognathic surgery can be a life-changing procedure for people with severe jaw deformities,” says Dr. John Doe, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. “However, the cost of surgery can be a barrier for many people. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting insurance to cover the cost of surgery.”
**FAQs**
Q: What is the average cost of orthognathic surgery?
A: The average cost of orthognathic surgery is between $20,000 and $40,000. However, the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the surgeon’s fees.
Q: How long does it take to recover from orthognathic surgery?
A: The recovery time from orthognathic surgery varies depending on the extent of the surgery. However, most people can expect to take 6-8 weeks off from work or school.
Q: What are the risks of orthognathic surgery?
A: Orthognathic surgery is a major surgery, and there are some risks associated with the procedure. These risks include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
**Conclusion**
Getting insurance to pay for orthognathic surgery can be a challenge, but it is possible. By following these tips and expert advice, you can increase your chances of getting the coverage you need. If you have any questions about orthognathic surgery or insurance coverage, please don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or insurance company.
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