Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Skin Cancer Removal Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Excisional Surgery | $1,000 – $5,000 | $200 – $1,000 |
| Mohs Micrographic Surgery | $3,000 – $10,000 | $500 – $2,000 |
| Cryotherapy/Liquid Nitrogen | $200 – $800 | $50 – $200 |
CPT/ADA Code: 17311
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: Medically necessary — covered after deductible; Mohs surgery may require prior authorization
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
Skin cancer removal costs $1,000 to $10,000 without insurance depending on the method, size, and location.
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer layer by layer, checking each under a microscope. It has the highest cure rate (99%) but is more time-intensive and expensive.
Yes, skin cancer removal is medically necessary and covered by insurance. Cosmetic reconstruction after removal may also be covered.