The total cost of excision and radiotherapy may vary widely from $1,000 up to $10,000 or more. Excision with radiotherapy is significantly more expensive than many other treatments for raised scars. However, when it comes to stubborn and/or large keloids, excision with radiotherapy may provide the best chance of permanently removing these scars.
Your health insurance may partially or fully cover the cost of excision and radiotherapy. Be sure to check your coverage with your insurance provider before scheduling a treatment. In addition, many plastic surgeons offer payment plans for excision with radiotherapy.
The total cost of excision and radiotherapy depends on the:
- Number of keloid/hypertrophic scars: Most doctors quote a price for each individual scar. The more scars you need to treat, the higher the total cost.
- Size of each scar: In general, the larger the scar, the higher the cost of treating it.
- Location and shape of each scar: The shape and location of the scar determines how difficult it will be to cut out. Doctors will generally quote a higher price for a more complex scar.
- Number of radiotherapy sessions: Most doctors recommend 1-3 sessions of radiotherapy after excision, but sometimes, as many as 12 sessions are given. Each additional treatment session increases the total cost.
- Geographic location of medical facility: Excision with radiotherapy is more expensive in some cities and countries than in others.
- Physician’s experience: Doctors who have more experience with excision and radiotherapy may charge a higher fee. It is important to look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience specifically in treating keloids.
If you decide to undergo excision and radiotherapy, obtain price estimates from multiple doctors before scheduling a treatment.