Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Abscess Drainage (Incision & Drainage) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Simple I&D (small abscess) | $200 – $500 | $50 – $125 |
| Complex I&D (large or deep abscess) | $300 – $800 | $75 – $200 |
| I&D with Packing | $250 – $600 | $60 – $150 |
| Perirectal Abscess Drainage | $400 – $1,200 | $100 – $300 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 10060
What Affects the Cost
- Facility type (freestanding center vs. hospital — hospitals cost 2-3x more)
- Geographic location
- Complexity of the visit or test
- Whether additional tests or procedures are needed
- In-network vs. out-of-network provider
- Time of day (emergency/after-hours may cost more)
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered as outpatient surgical procedure
Most diagnostic tests and urgent care visits are covered when medically necessary with a doctor's order. You'll pay your deductible first, then coinsurance (typically 20-40%). Preventive screenings are covered at $0 under the ACA. Always use in-network providers to avoid surprise bills.
How to Save Money
- Freestanding facilities cost 50-70% less than hospital-based
- Ask for cash-pay pricing upfront — often 40-60% less than billed rate
- Compare prices on MDsave.com or Healthcare Bluebook
- Use urgent care instead of ER for non-emergencies (save $1,000+)
- Telehealth visits cost $50-$100 for many conditions
- Check if the service qualifies as preventive care ($0 with insurance)
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
A simple abscess drainage costs $200-$500 at urgent care, plus the visit fee. Complex or deep abscesses cost $300-$800. With insurance, expect $50-$200. ER drainage is significantly more expensive at $800-$3,000+.
Yes. Most urgent care centers can perform incision and drainage of skin abscesses. They will numb the area with local anesthetic, make a small incision, drain the pus, and pack the wound. They may prescribe antibiotics.
Small abscesses heal in 1-2 weeks. Larger abscesses may take 2-4 weeks. Packing is usually removed or replaced in 1-2 days. You may need follow-up visits for wound checks and repacking.