Whether it’s just because your taste has changed, you’re looking into entering a new profession, or your tattoo serves as a reminder of your ex, there are countless reasons why many choose to pursue laser tattoo removal. Maybe you are in a different phase of life or your tattoo is causing you embarrassment. Regardless of the reason, the first question that many have is, “Does insurance cover laser tattoo removal?” Followed shortly by “is tattoo removal safe?” and “what does the laser tattoo healing process look like?”

Unfortunately, when it comes to whether or not insurance can cover laser tattoo removal, we can’t give you a concise answer. 

Let’s break down the information that we can provide instead. 

Health Insurance & Laser Tattoo Removal

Health insurance coverage for laser tattoo removal can vary depending on your plan and type of health insurance. We advise that you speak to your health insurance provider directly to explore and understand your options or if there is any way to have it covered.

Traditional health insurance companies typically sort procedures into two categories when considering coverage: cosmetic or medically necessary. An elective procedure or surgery is scheduled in advance and does not involve a medical emergency. While they can contribute to the general wellness and happiness of the patient, they are not viewed as necessary. For this reason, insurance companies are not required to compensate for the cost. A medically necessary procedure is required for health reasons.

You can see that tattoo removal is considered a cosmetic preference decision rather than one performed due to medical necessity. Therefore, insurance typically does not cover laser tattoo removal.

Is Removing Your Tattoo Medically Necessary?

It is worth noting that in some rare instances, tattoo removal may be considered medically necessary. 

If your doctor or a board-certified plastic surgeon can verify that there are medical reasons for having your tattoo removed, your health insurance company may choose to cover or partially cover your tattoo removal. 

These medical reasons as to why you may need to have a tattoo removed may include allergic reactions to some aspect of your tattoo and the presence of skin cancer. The placement of a tattoo can make it difficult to see or assess the potential for skin cancer, such as a malignant mole. Another example is that if your tattoo has caused scarring that has limited the range of motion of a particular joint, a doctor could decide that laser treatment should be covered by your insurance company.

Trust the Experts at Ink-B-Gone

When you’re ready to look into laser tattoo removal, finding a professional and expert technician you trust should be your top priority. We invite you to visit Ink-B-Gone, the leading laser tattoo remover in Colorado, for a free consultation. Located in Denver, we are proud to share that many of our clients come from out of state. 

We invite you to visit our blog to see other topics that may interest you surrounding laser tattoo removal.

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