Hair Removal
DESCRIPTION
This procedure applies to the removal of hair (decompensating a hair follicle) via electrolysis, use of a laser, or any other technique.
POLICY
The removal of hair by means of electrolysis, laser, or any other technique is considered cosmetic.
IMPORTANT REMINDER
We develop Medical Policies to provide guidance to Members and Providers. This Medical Policy relates only to the services or supplies described in it. The existence of a Medical Policy is not an authorization, certification, explanation of benefits or a contract for the service (or supply) that is referenced in the Medical Policy. For a determination of the benefits that a Member is entitled to receive under his or her health plan, the Member's health plan must be reviewed. If there is a conflict between the Medical Policy and a health plan, the express terms of the health plan will govern.
SOURCES
BlueCross BlueShield Association. Medical Policy Reference Manual. (2002, July). Reconstructive/Cosmetic Services. (10.01.09). Retrieved March 3, 2003 from BlueWeb.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (1996, September). FDA Consumer. Hair today, gone tomorrow. Retrieved March 4, 2003 from http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-hrem.html.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2007, November). Center for Devices and Radiological Health. CDRH consumer information - Laser facts. Retrieved December 7, 2007 from http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/laserfacts.html.
ORIGINAL EFFECTIVE DATE: 6/1998
MOST RECENT REVIEW DATE: 1/10/2008
ID_BA
Policies included in the Medical Policy Manual are not intended to certify coverage availability. They are medical determinations about a particular technology, service, drug, etc. While a policy or technology may be medically necessary, it could be excluded in a member's benefit plan. Please check with the appropriate claims department to determine if the service in question is a covered service under a particular benefit plan. Use of the Medical Policy Manual is not intended to replace independent medical judgment for treatment of individuals. The content on this Web site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider if you have questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.
This document has been classified as public information.