David P. Stapenhorst, MD

Plastic and Cosmetic Procedures

Plastic surgery encompasses both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem. Because cosmetic surgery is elective, it is usually not covered by health insurance. Examples of purely cosmetic surgery include breast augmentation, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), liposuction, and facelift.

Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. It is generally performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance. Reconstructive surgery is generally covered by most health insurance policies, although coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage may vary greatly. Examples of reconstructive surgery include breast reconstruction after mastectomy, reconstruction of defects after skin cancer removal, and cleft lip and palate repair.

Dramatic advances have been made in recent years in treating patients with hand injuries, degenerative disorders, and birth defects of the hand. At the forefront of these advances have been plastic surgeons-specialists whose major interest is improving both function and appearance. Plastic surgeons undergo intensive training in hand surgery, and they (along with orthopedic surgeons and general surgeons) treat patients with a wide range of hand problems.

There are a number of "gray areas" in coverage for plastic surgery that sometimes require special consideration by an insurance carrier. These areas usually involve surgical operations, which may be considered reconstructive or cosmetic, depending on each patient's situation. For example, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) - a procedure normally performed to achieve cosmetic improvement - may be covered if the eyelids are drooping severely and obscuring a patient's vision.

Dr. Stapenhorst accepts a variety of insurance plans and financing options. For further information, please call the office at 281-980-0999, or contact us via the internet using our contact form.