Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, improves the appearance of the nose. Rhinoplasty will improve cosmetic appearance, ranging from a large or crooked nose, to bumps or an asymmetric tip of the nose, or a nose that is simply too large for a person’s face.
Sometimes, a patient is born with a less than desirable nose. Other times, it can come about as a result of an accident or traumatic event.
Unfortunately for employees in New York city, rhinoplasty is considered cosmetic surgery and insurance companies do not cover this type of procedure. However, rhinoplasty is often times combined with other medically corrective surgeries on the nose to correct a deviated septum, poor breathing, nasal fractures or chronic nasal conditions such as sinusitis. Even if cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty procedures are combined, there’s a good chance the anesthesia and operating room fees for the cosmetic portion of the procedure will still be the patient’s responsibility.
The only exception to employee insurance coverage for cosmetic rhinoplasty is if the nasal deformity was originally caused by some kind of trauma. In situations like this, rhinoplasty is considered a restorative procedure versus a cosmetic procedure. It’s best to check with your individual provider in instances like this and seek a pre-authorization.
If no coverage exists, cosmetic rhinoplasty can run anywhere from $7,000 and up, depending on exactly what it is that you’re seeking. It’s best to do your homework and make sure insurance coverage and surgical costs are covered as part of your discussions with possible surgeons you’re considering to use.
