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Does TRICARE cover cosmetic surgery?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
TRICARE does not cover cosmetic surgery except when reconstructive surgery is medically necessary after injury, disease, or congenital defect.
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Key Takeaways
- Cosmetic not covered
- Reconstructive may be covered
- Medical necessity required
- Prior authorization needed
Detailed Answer
Cosmetic surgery has strict coverage limits.
Not Covered
- Elective cosmetic procedures
- Appearance improvement only
- Non-medically necessary
- Personal preference surgery
May Be Covered
- Reconstructive after cancer
- Repair of injury
- Congenital defect correction
- Functional impairment repair
Examples of Coverage
- Breast reconstruction post-mastectomy
- Skin grafts after burns
- Cleft palate repair
- Functional rhinoplasty
Examples NOT Covered
- Liposuction
- Facelift
- Cosmetic rhinoplasty
- Body contouring (usually)
Documentation
- Medical necessity required
- Prior authorization
- Physician justification
- Functional impairment proof
Sponsored
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
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Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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