Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Biopsy Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Biopsy (Punch/Shave) | $200 – $1,000 | $50 – $300 |
| Needle Biopsy (Core/FNA) | $500 – $3,000 | $100 – $700 |
| Image-Guided Biopsy (CT/Ultrasound) | $1,500 – $5,000 | $300 – $1,200 |
| Surgical/Excisional Biopsy | $2,000 – $6,000 | $400 – $1,200 |
CPT/ADA Code: 11102
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Diagnostic — covered when medically necessary; pathology fees are separate
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Biopsy costs range from $200 for a skin biopsy to $5,000+ for image-guided or surgical biopsies, not including pathology fees.
Yes, biopsies are covered when medically necessary. The pathology analysis is billed separately and also covered.
Simple biopsies have results in 2-3 days. Complex cases requiring special stains or consultations may take 7-10 days.