Medicare Part B and Surgical Benefits
Question: I have a growth on the left side of my face that is beginning to itch. This growth has been there for some time and also interferes with the comfort of my glasses arm that fits over my ear. This growth has been removed at different stages, but keeps coming back and is quite large and uncomfortable now. What part of Medicare will pay for removal of this?
Answer: Medicare Part B covers surgical procedures. There is a Medicare Part B deductible of $162 for the calendar year, and then you pay 20% of the Medicare allowable charge.
Generally, a procedure considered purely "cosmetic" is not covered. I doubt that a condition causing abnormal growth on your skin is purely cosmetic. However, it is important to ask your doctor if the condition causing the growth and the surgical removal of the growth is covered by Medicare. It is always a good idea to have your doctor confirm if a prescribed treatment is covered by your insurance. There is nothing wrong with asking them that question. Your doctor's office can call Medicare with a diagnosis code and confirm coverage.
