Does Medicare cover orthognathic surgery?

Does Medicare cover orthognathic surgery?

The good news is that Medicare does provide coverage for jaw surgery in most circumstances. Individuals who need surgery due to an injury or a worsening medical condition can usually have the procedure and rehabilitation costs covered by Medicare Part A and Part B.

Is orthognathic surgery medically necessary?

Orthognathic surgery is covered when medically necessary and the symptoms of skeletal facial deformities present a significant functional impairment for the member. The impairment has not been corrected by non-surgical means, including orthodontic therapy when appropriate.

How do I get my insurance to correct corrective jaw surgery?

Getting health insurance to cover corrective jaw surgery requires that you show the procedure is medically necessary: the service treats an illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms. Plastic surgery corrects dysfunctional areas of the body and is often medically necessary.

Is jaw surgery considered medical or dental?

Orthognathic (jaw straightening) surgery is not a dental insurance matter, but may be a covered benefit on the medical insurance. Although there are some medical plans that specifically exclude orthognathic surgery, most insurance plans permit the authorization of orthognathic surgery “when medically necessary”.

How do people afford orthognathic surgery?

Fortunately, you have several options for making of oral and maxillofacial surgery more affordable.

1. Cash Discounts.
2. Payment Plans.
3. Dental Discount Plans.
4. Health Care Credit Cards.
5. Bank Loans.
6. Talk to Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.

How much does jaw realignment surgery cost?

The cost of jaw surgery typically ranges between $20,000-$40,000. However, surgery to correct temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cost up to $50,000.

How painful is orthognathic surgery?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Patients usually experience pain after the anesthesia wears off, which can last for a few days. This can be managed with painkillers.

How long does a jaw operation take?

This usually requires two appointments before your operation. The operation is carried out under general anaesthesia (you will be asleep) and will take 2-5 hours.

How long is hospital stay after jaw surgery?

Orthognathic surgery takes place in a hospital and requires patients to stay for two to four days after the procedure. The hospital will contact the patients 48 hours in advance to let them know what time they should report. During the surgery, patients are put under general anesthesia.

Are you asleep during jaw surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery is generally performed in a hospital or surgery center. To begin the surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia, where you fall asleep and generally won’t feel pain during the procedure.

How long do you need off work after jaw surgery?

RETURNING TO WORK OR SCHOOL The usual recovery after jaw surgery is about 2 weeks. This may be either shorter or longer in certain cases. You may return to work or school as soon as you feel able after your surgery.

What can you not do after jaw surgery?

Activity

• No strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 3 weeks after surgery.
• Limit exercise to walking for the first 3 weeks. Walking is encouraged.
• You may return to light housework or daily activities during the first week.
• No contact sports or sports involving a ball for 12 weeks.

How do I know if I need jaw surgery?

You have trouble biting, chewing, or swallowing. Jaw growth sometimes occurs at differing rates for the upper and lower jaws, resulting in misaligned jaws that make eating difficult. If you have trouble biting, chewing, or swallowing, you may need orthognathic surgery.

Do you have to pay for jaw surgery?

The total cost depends on the severity of the jaw abnormalities and hospital stay. Generally, health insurance will cover the surgery if it’s needed to fix health issues like obstructive sleep apnea. You may get partial or full coverage.

Does insurance cover lower jaw surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is often covered by insurance if a functional problem can be documented, assuming there are no exclusions for jaw surgery on your insurance plan. A surgeon’s cost for jaw surgery may vary based on his or her experience, the type of procedure used, as well as geographic office location.