Cranial Prosthesis

At LaSpina Renewed Image Salon we take great pride in reaching out to those patients with cancer as well as other debilitating illnesses who are in need of hair replacement. We've been well established in the beauty industry for over 32 years and our salon representatives have been certified with the "Look Good, Feel Better" program.

Read an interview (PDF) with our cranial prosthesis specialist Dan Biro as he discusses the process with Images & Impressions Magazine.

We offer comprehensive consultations for those just diagnosed, with as much support and professional advice as possible, to assist them on their path to recovery. Cancer can rob a person of their energy and strength, but it does not have to take away your self-confidence! Please call for a free consultation in our private fitting rooms.

Each prosthesis we create is meticulously and caringly handcrafted to ensure a natural look and feel. Each individual design offers beauty, comfort, rich colors and distinctive highlights. We also try to create one that best fits you and your lifestyle.

Most of our prosthesis can be styled in different directions. Our prosthesis also have what we refer to as a breathable mesh scalp. Since 2002 many health institutes are providing coverage for these natural looking cranial prosthesis.

We can come to you! We now offer this process in the privacy of your own home. When we arrive at your home, we will take measurements and pick a style and color that best works with your features. This can all be done in about an hour. We will then order your prosthesis and return to your house in less than a week to cut and style it!

Insurance Information

Most insurance companies cover between 80 to 100% of a cranial prosthesis. Insurance Companies are realizing your cranial hair prosthesis are more and more a necessity for those recovering from Alopecia and cancer treatments. Follow some simple guidelines to assure coverage, when it is available through your insurance company. Your physician should be able to supply all the details and make the referral for the purchase of your "hair prosthesis". Ask your physician to do that.

When receiving your hair prosthesis, have your stylist complete an invoice for a "cranial hair prosthesis" NOT a wig and use the following guidelines for filing an insurance claim:

• Check the benefits of your insurance. There should be a section under "covered expenses" relating to prostheses, prosthetic devices or medical durable equipment. Most companies don't spell out exclusions so pay attention to the actual coverage, this will help your case.
• Make sure to complete the insurance form and have it signed by your physician.
• Request that your physician write a "prescription" for a "full cranial prosthesis" (not a wig) and a letter explaining hair loss and its effects. That it isn't just for cosmetic reasons but for emotional well-being as well.
• Keep copies of your sales or invoices for your cranial prosthesis. (Portions of unpaid items by insurance are tax deductible.)
• Enclose a letter to the insurance company stating the necessity of a prosthesis.

Some optional suggestions are:

• Include a letter from your employer
• Take pictures of yourself without hair
• Hand write a letter detailing the emotional effects that your condition has had on your life
• Bring a copy of your prescription and paid bill tot he American Cancer Society for partial reimbursement.

If your insurance coverage is denied, you can appeal it:

• Ask for review by a medical review board, include the original claim
• Ask for a written reply as to why the claim was denied
• Send a letter tot he claims department supervisor.

These steps are for reference. Remember to follow the procedures outlined by your insurance company to receive the fullest benefits possible. Most companies cover between 80 to 100%. Individual insurance companies as well as the state insurance board (each state varies) may have other or additional steps to complete. If you don't have insurance contact your state or county agencies. The county department of social services offers medical assistance in most states for individuals who meet certain income guidelines.