Keloids are raised scars that form when the body makes too much collagen. They can develop after skin injuries, like surgery, burns, or even acne.
Because keloids can affect someone’s appearance, they can also impact self-confidence. Keloid removal is a treatment option to improve the appearance, elasticity, and health of the skin.
But what’s the keloids removal cost? The price can vary quite a bit depending on the treatment method, the size of the keloid, and where it is on the body. Let’s take a look.
What factors influence keloid removal costs?
The cost of keloid removal varies, and a few factors can affect the final price you’ll pay.
Keloid size and location
The size and shape of the keloid will affect the method your doctor uses to treat it, and larger, more complicated keloids usually require more involved treatment.
Keloids on your chest and earlobes can be hard to treat, which can also raise the price.
Treatment method
Surgical removal is typically more expensive than less invasive treatments. Laser therapy, steroid injections, cryotherapy, and radiation therapy all have different price points.
The number of sessions you need will also affect the bottom line. Laser treatments, for example, are often spaced out over weeks or months.
Surgeon’s expertise and location
Experienced specialists may charge more, but paying for a qualified surgeon may mean you’re less likely to need the procedure again.
Your geographical location also plays a role. You’ll probably pay more in a major metro area than you would in a smaller town or rural area.
Keloid Removal Methods and Their Associated Costs
Several methods exist for keloid removal, each with varying price points. Here’s a breakdown:
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision involves cutting out the keloid tissue. In some cases, a skin graft may be necessary to cover the area. This is one of the more invasive methods, and as such, tends to be among the pricier options.
- Cost: $1,000 to $3,500
- Recovery Time: Around two weeks, although the scar will continue to mature for about six months.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections work by reducing inflammation and collagen production in the keloid, which can flatten and shrink the scar over time. Multiple sessions are typically required for optimal results.
- Cost: $100 to $300 per session, but costs can vary based on the keloid’s size, the type of steroid used, and the number of treatments needed.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy, specifically laser resurfacing using pulsed dye lasers, aims to flatten the scar and reduce its discoloration. Multiple sessions are needed, spaced several weeks apart.
- Cost: $300 to $1,500 per session.
- Number of Sessions: Treatments are usually spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart.
Other Treatment Options
Other, less common, treatments include:
- Cryotherapy: $100 to $500 per session. This treatment freezes the keloid tissue.
- Radiation Therapy: $1,000 to $2,000 per session. Radiation therapy aims to prevent the keloid from growing back after surgical removal.
Insurance Coverage and Financing Options
Whether your insurance covers keloid removal depends on whether the procedure is considered medically necessary or cosmetic. A procedure is “medically necessary” if it’s required to treat a medical condition. If the keloid causes pain, itching, restricts movement, or frequently gets infected, your insurance is more likely to cover removal.
Cosmetic procedures, on the other hand, are performed to improve appearance. If the keloid doesn’t cause any functional problems and you want it removed for aesthetic reasons, insurance probably won’t cover it.
The best way to find out if your insurance will cover keloid removal is to talk to your insurance provider and your surgeon beforehand. They can help you understand your policy’s specific rules. Some clinics offer financing plans, or you might be able to get a loan from a third-party lender to cover the cost.
Choosing a Qualified Specialist
Finding a qualified, experienced specialist is the most important step in keloid removal. It might seem expensive up front, but it can save you money later. An expert can improve your outcome and reduce the chances that the keloid will return.
Here’s how to find the right doctor:
- Look for board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons.
- Ask about their experience treating keloids.
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and get an accurate cost estimate for your specific case.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The more information you have, the better you can decide.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve seen, the cost to remove keloids varies quite a bit. Several factors influence the final price tag, including the size and shape of the keloid, the surgeon’s expertise, where you live, the number of treatment sessions you need, and how complicated the procedure is.
If you’re considering keloid removal, the best thing to do is schedule a consultation with a specialist. They can assess your specific situation and provide a personalized cost estimate. Before you move forward with any treatment, make sure you get a detailed price quote.
It’s also important to weigh the costs and benefits of each treatment option. While keloid removal can be an investment, the long-term improvement in your appearance and self-confidence can be well worth it.