Q. Do you have any special wigs for those with sensitive scalps?
A. Absolutely! Sensitive scalps require extra care, and your comfort is our priority. That’s why we offer a Medical Grade line of wigs. These are hand-tied and made especially for those with delicate scalps (including cancer and alopecia patients). These wigs are lightweight with easy breathability so you can continue on your day with one less worry.

Q. Will my insurance pay for the wig?
A. If you have a medical condition such as alopecia or cancer that causes you to lose your hair, you may be covered under your health insurance. Many health insurance companies cover part or all of the cost of a wig even if it is not listed on your policy of benefits. Since a wig is considered a cosmetic purchase, insurance companies are reluctant to reimburse you for your purchase. But if you file the claim using the term “Cranial Hair Prosthesis” it can be paid out as a medical necessity. Make sure to ask your doctor for a written Cranial Hair Prosthesis prescription. In addition to the doctor prescription, it may be beneficial to submit a letter explaining how hair loss has affected you emotionally. It is important to call your insurance provider for pre-approval before purchasing your hair piece so you will be clear on your coverage.

Q. How do I file a claim?
A. Checklist for filing a claim:

• Get a prescription and letter from your doctor for “Cranial Hair Prosthesis”:
  
  • Request your physician to write a letter explaining hair loss and it’s emotional effects. Cranial prosthesis is not simply for cosmetic reasons, it’s for emotional well-being.
  • Be sure your doctor states specific diagnosis codes. For example, Alopecia alone is not a diagnosis. Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Areata, Alopeicia Universalis, etc. are valid diagnosis conditions.
  • Use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems (HCPCS) codes: S8095 and A9282.
  • Make sure your doctor states why this Cranial Prosthesis is considered DME (Durable Medical Equipment)
• Complete the necessary forms for your insurance company
  • Use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems (HCPCS) codes: S8095 and A9282.
  • Insurance companies also ask for a NPI Code – this code comes from a doctor.
  • Have your physician sign off on your insurance claim form.
• Submit the custom invoice we give you.
  • Come into the store and pick-up the custom invoice we will print for you. The invoice will specifically state “cranial hair prosthesis” and not a wig. We’ll make sure it doesn’s say “wig” anywhere on the invoice, that it includes the necessary HCPCS insurance codes, and includes our Tax ID # which is required.

DENIED? FILE AN APPEAL

1. Double check your benefits and coverage to make sure “Cranial Hair Prosthesis” is covered in your policy. See if your insurance company calls it something else and learn how “wigs” are excluded from coverage.
2. Ask for a review by a medical review board, include the original claim.
3. Ask for a written reply as to why the claim was denied.
4. Send a letter to the claims department supervisor.

There are also grants and voucher available to help your purchase of a new wig:

• American Cancer Society
• National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF)
• Local foundations such as Wigged Out

Q. Can I just walk-in, or do I need to make an appointment?
A. Yes, we take walk-ins. If you’re brand new, we suggest making an appointment to give you one-on-one service to help answer any questions you may have before you purchase your wig.


Q. Can people tell I’m wearing a wig?
A. If your wig is properly fitted to your head, and has been thinned/trimmed/styled to look more natural, people will not notice you are wearing a wig. That is our goal.

Q. How do I know what size is appropriate? Will you help size my wig?
A. We won’t know what size you are until we try a wig on you. We do a full custom fitting for you to make sure it fits comfortably and secure on your head.

Q. How do I achieve a natural look?
A. After you decide on the wig you want, we do the trimming, thinning, and sizing to make it custom for you. That is included in the price of each wig. We also give tips on styling your wig every visit.

Q. Will my wig withstand the weather, heat, or physical activity?
A. Yes, our wigs are made to be durable. They are top-line and high quality fiber. However, we give you the precautions on oven heat, fireplaces, or any sources of direct heat or steam. It is not recommended to wear your wig while cooking. Exercise is fine, except for swimming.

Q. Will my wig make my head hot or itchy? Is it uncomfortable to wear?
A. If you are going through chemotherapy, your scalp will itch and ache at first, until all the hair has been released from your follicle. Then, it will go back to its normal state. However, if you are not going through chemo, your wig will become comfortable. It is just a matter of getting used to wearing a wig and having something snug around your hairline.

Q. Will a wig damage my scalp or slow my natural hair growth during chemotherapy?
A. No, a wig will not damage your scalp or hair.

Q. Do you have any other products that will help me with hair loss?
A. We do not have any products that will help with hair loss. Instead, we have products that will enhance your look from the loss of hair, including human hair eyelashes. We also have a wide variety of scarves, turbans, and hats.

Q. Do I need more than one wig?
A. Yes, we suggest having at least two wigs. One will be used for back-up as you have the other serviced.

Q. Do you work on wigs that are not purchased from Susie’s Wigs?
A. Yes, we do work on wigs not purchased here.


Q. How can I make my wig look as natural as possible for me?
A. We are one of the few wig shops that offer full-service reconditioning and rejuvenating of your wigs. This includes resetting and styling to keep the original style that you prefer. We keep a record of each individual’s preferences of styles and settings.

Q. How long will my wig last?
A. This varies per person. It depends on how often the wig is worn and how often the wig is brought in to the full-service salon to be rejuvenated.

Q. What is the difference between wigs?
A. Options for wigs are monofilament, lace front, 100% hand-tied, and machine made. We also offer toppers made in the same ways. Monofilament wigs are hand-tied only on the top. They are thinner, cooler, and look like your scalp when parted. Lace front wigs do not have a thick edge (wig line). This makes it look like it is your own hairline. 100% hand-tied wigs are the thinnest, most comfortable wig. They are lighter in weight and let your scalp breathe. They fit more like a glove. Machine made wigs are a little heavier and have a thicker top. However, some customers prefer them as they give more volume and body to the style.

Q. Should I buy human hair or synthetic wigs? What is the difference?
A. Human hair wigs are recommended if you are handy with your hair. With human hair, you are able to use your own styling products, including hair dye, color-treated shampoo products, and styling tools. Synthetic hair wigs are easier to take care of. They have more color and style options, and typically come already styled. Special shampoos and conditioners for synthetic hair are available for purchase in our store.