1 (833) 453-5643Ever wondered how much it actually costs to get a keloid removed? If a raised scar has been causing discomfort, drawing unwanted attention, or affecting your confidence, it’s completely normal to want clear answers. Keloid removal costs can vary quite a bit depending on the type of treatment used and your specific case, and understanding what influences the price can help you make a confident, informed decision.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you can expect and how to get the best value for your care.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Keloid Removed?
In the United States, the average cost of keloid removal typically ranges from $300 to $3,500 per treatment, depending on the method used and the complexity of the case. Surgical excision tends to be more expensive than non-invasive treatments, especially when paired with adjunct therapies like radiation.
- Steroid injections typically cost $100–$300 per session.
- Laser or cryotherapy treatments range from $300–$1,500 per session.
- Keloid removal surgery, often combined with radiation therapy, can cost $1,000–$3,500 or more.
Additional factors like the number of sessions needed and the location of the practice can also affect the final cost. Because treatment plans are highly individualized, the final keloid removal price is best determined during an in-person consultation.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Keloid Scar Removal
The cost of keloid scar removal isn’t one-size-fits-all—it can vary significantly based on a range of individual and procedural factors. Understanding what influences the price can help you plan and avoid surprises. From the complexity of the scar to the specialist’s credentials, each detail plays a role in shaping your overall investment in treatment.
Keloid Size and Shape
The size and shape of a keloid are major factors in determining removal costs. Larger or irregularly shaped keloids—including those on the ear or earlobe—often require more complex treatment plans, which can affect the overall ear keloid removal price. For instance, a small, flat keloid may be managed with corticosteroid injections alone, while a bulky, raised one might need surgery followed by radiation. These differences can significantly impact both the number of sessions required and the overall cost, making an individualized treatment assessment essential for an accurate price estimate.
Surgeon’s Experience
The expertise and qualifications of your surgeon play a major role in the cost of keloid removal. Highly experienced, board-certified specialists typically charge more, but their skillset often leads to better outcomes and lower recurrence rates—which can ultimately save money in the long run. Surgeons who specialize in keloid treatment may also offer advanced techniques and technologies not available through general practitioners. Choosing a reputable expert ensures a safer, more precise procedure, making this a worthwhile investment in both your appearance and peace of mind.
Geographical Location
Where you live can have a noticeable impact on the keloid removal price. Clinics in large metropolitan areas or regions with a high cost of living—such as New York, Los Angeles, or Miami—generally charge more than those in smaller towns or rural locations. This is due to higher overhead costs, demand for specialized services, and market competition. Additionally, access to advanced technologies and highly experienced specialists may vary by location, which can also affect pricing and treatment availability.
The Recovery Process
Recovery time and post-treatment care can also impact the overall cost of keloid removal. Some procedures, like surgical excision or radiation therapy, may require follow-up visits, prescription medications, wound care products, or even time off work—all of which add to the expense. The more intensive the healing process, the greater the financial considerations. It’s also worth noting that proper aftercare is crucial to reducing recurrence, so investing in a comprehensive recovery plan can be just as important as the procedure itself when calculating total treatment costs.
Does the Location of a Keloid Affect Removal Cost?
Yes, the location of a keloid can significantly affect the cost of removal. Keloids on the ear or earlobe are often less complex to treat than larger scars on the chest, shoulders, or back. This can make ear and earlobe keloid removal more affordable in many cases.
However, treatment cost can still vary based on whether the keloid has recurred, if prior treatments were unsuccessful, and whether additional therapies like steroid injections or radiation are recommended to reduce regrowth.
Leading Experts in Keloid Plastic
Surgery in Miami Beach
Keloid Removal Costs by Treatment Option
Each keloid removal method comes with its own price range, depending on the procedure’s complexity, the technology used, and the number of sessions required. Understanding the cost differences between treatment options can help you choose the most appropriate plan for your needs and budget.
Below, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay for the most common and effective keloid treatment approaches, from surgical incisions to laser and radiation treatments.
Keloid Removal Surgery Cost
Surgical keloid removal typically costs between $1,000 and $3,500 in the U.S. A range many patients associate with overall keloid surgery cost, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional scar treatments are needed. This cost generally includes the surgeon’s fee, facility costs, anesthesia, and any necessary follow-up visits. Larger or more deeply embedded keloids may require longer surgery, contributing to a higher price. Some surgeons also recommend combining this invasive procedure with additional treatments like corticosteroid injections or radiation therapy to lower the risk of recurrence, which can add to the total cost. A personalized consultation is the best way to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific case.
Steroid Injections Cost
Corticosteroid injections for keloids typically cost between $100 and $300 per session, making them one of the most accessible options when patients ask about keloid injection cost or price. Unlike surgical methods, most treatment plans involve multiple treatment sessions spaced weeks apart, with the total cost rising accordingly. This treatment is often the first-line approach for reducing inflammation, flattening the keloid, and relieving discomfort. While generally more affordable than surgical or radiation-based options, results can vary, and maintenance sessions may be necessary. Patients should consider both cost and response rate when deciding if steroid injections are the right solution for long-term keloid management.
Cryotherapy Cost
Cryotherapy for keloid removal generally costs between $100 and $500 per session, depending on the technology used—an important factor for patients comparing keloid laser treatment costs. Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) are commonly used to reduce redness in scars, flatten raised keloid tissue, and improve overall appearance. While laser skin resurfacing is less invasive than surgery, it often requires multiple sessions for noticeable results, which can increase the overall cost. Some patients also combine it with other keloid removal treatments like corticosteroids for better outcomes. Costs may vary by provider, especially if specialized laser technology is used.
Skin Laser Treatments Cost
Laser therapy for keloid removal typically ranges from $300 to $1,500 per session, depending on the technology used—an important factor for patients comparing keloid laser treatment costs. Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) are commonly used to reduce redness in scars, flatten raised keloid tissue, and improve overall appearance. While laser skin resurfacing is less invasive than surgery, it often requires multiple sessions for noticeable results, which can increase the overall cost. Some patients also combine it with other keloid removal treatments like corticosteroids for better outcomes. Costs may vary by provider, especially if specialized laser technology is used.
Keloid Radiation Therapy Cost
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000 per session, which is why many patients specifically ask about keloid radiation therapy cost when planning combined treatment. This advanced treatment is often used as a follow-up to surgical excision and is designed to significantly reduce recurrence rates. The total cost can vary based on the number of treatments, facility fees, and whether it’s bundled with surgery. Although it may be a larger upfront investment, SRT’s long-term effectiveness makes it a valuable option for patients looking for lasting results with minimal chance of regrowth.
Before & After Keloid Excision/Surgical Removal
Natural & Unparalleled Results
Is Keloid Removal Covered by Insurance?
In some cases, yes. Insurance coverage for keloid removal depends on whether the procedure is considered medically necessary or cosmetic. If a keloid is causing pain, infection, or interfering with daily activities, your insurance provider may consider treatment medically necessary and cover part or all of the cost. However, if the removal is purely for aesthetic reasons, coverage is less likely. Always consult with your provider and surgeon beforehand to get a clear understanding of what’s covered, what documentation is needed, and what portion you’ll be responsible for paying out-of-pocket.
Why Choosing the Best Keloid Treatment Specialist Matters
When it comes to keloid removal, choosing a skilled and experienced specialist can make all the difference, both in the quality of the results and in long-term savings. An expert plastic surgeon will not only recommend the most effective keloid treatment option but also help reduce the risk of recurrence. This can lead to additional procedures and higher costs down the line.
At The Keloid Plastic Surgery Center, our board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeons, Dr. Roberto Mendez and Dr. Gabriel Salloum, are among the nation’s top experts in keloid treatment. With years of experience handling everything from simple scars to complex, recurring keloids, they combine surgical precision with advanced therapies like Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) to ensure optimal results. Call us at 833-453-5643 or visit our contact page to schedule your personalized consultation today.
FAQs About Keloid Removal Prices
It depends on the medical necessity. If your keloid causes pain, infection, or restricts movement, insurance is more likely to cover the procedure. However, if the removal is strictly for cosmetic reasons to improve appearance, you will likely need to pay out-of-pocket.
The cost varies significantly by treatment type. generally ranging from $300 to $3,500. Corticosteroid injections are on the lower end ($100–$300 per session), while surgical excision combined with radiation therapy typically falls between $1,000 and $3,500 or more.
The number varies by treatment and keloid size—steroid injections or laser may require 3–6 sessions spaced weeks apart, while surgery often needs 1 procedure plus follow-ups. Consultations provide personalized estimates.
Yes. Larger or irregularly shaped keloids are more complex to treat and often require longer surgical times or more intensive therapy plans. Consequently, bulky or extensive keloids generally cost more to remove than small, flat ones.