Duration of the surgery

The duration of the operation always depends on the invasiveness of the operation, the surgeon and the course of the operation. Usually, the insertion of an implant takes one hour. The nut method takes about one to two hours. With the open and more invasive surgical methods, a longer duration of the operation must be expected, since here not only stirrups are inserted, but also the cartilage is cut through and sutured back in the correct position. In addition, deformities that are more pronounced than expected before the operation or unexpected complications can extend the duration of the operation.

Costs of the surgery

The costs of a funnel chest operation do not only consist of the performed operation, but also include the stay in hospital. If the correction is covered by the health insurance company, no additional costs arise for the person concerned, the health insurance company pays for both the operation and the hospital stay. However, if the operation is not paid for by the health insurance company, the person concerned must pay all costs himself/herself.

One of these costs is the operation, which costs about 10,000€. In addition, there are the costs for the hospital stay, which varies depending on the hospital and room preferences (private or normal ward). Payment is made in daily rates. How high these are, should be inquired in the respective hospital, amount to however usually around 500€ per day. Whether an operation is really worthwhile and whether there is a possibility that the costs will be covered by the health insurance company should be discussed with the attending physician.

Does the health insurance pay for it?

The health insurance company pays for the operation in any case where the patient’s health is endangered, i.e. the higher the severity of the illness. In other words, if symptoms occur that severely restrict the patient’s everyday life or affect his or her lungs or heart, there should be no problem in covering the costs. If a funnel chest correction is to be performed due to the cosmetic problem, the costs are usually not covered by health insurance companies.

If the funnel chest causes severe psychological problems for the patient, an additional psychological assessment may be necessary in order for the costs to be covered. In any case, the doctor treating the patient should be consulted. If the assumption of costs is refused, an appeal can be filed in any case.