Skin Biopsy Costs in the US: What to Expect

Typical Cost Ranges (2024 Estimates, Before Insurance)

• Office-Based (Shave/Punch): $150–$400 (procedure + pathology).
• Office-Based Excisional: $300–$600.
• Hospital/ASC-Based: $800–$2,500+ (facility fee, anesthesia, pathology).
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: $1,500–$4,000+ per stage (includes real-time pathology).

Cost Drivers

• Geographic region (urban > rural).
• Provider type (dermatologist vs. plastic surgeon vs. primary care).
• Lesion size, location, complexity.
• Anesthesia type (local vs. sedation).
• Pathology lab (in-house vs. reference).

Insurance & Billing

• Most plans cover medically necessary biopsies (diagnostic).
• Cosmetic removals usually not covered.
• Deductible, copay, coinsurance apply.
• Ask for CPT codes (e.g., 11102–11107, 11300–11313, 11600–11646) and pre-authorization estimate.

Discuss costs with your provider's billing office beforehand.