Understanding the potential out-of-pocket expense is the primary concern for individuals considering the removal of a cherry angioma. These common, benign skin lesions are generally harmless, yet their removal is sought for cosmetic reasons or due to irritation. The total price for removal is not fixed and varies widely depending on the chosen method, the provider, and the specific characteristics of the lesion being treated.
What Are Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, are common skin growths that typically appear after age 30. They are small, bright-red papules, or dome-shaped bumps, consisting of a cluster of dilated capillaries near the skin’s surface. These growths can range from a pinpoint size up to a quarter-inch in diameter, with their color coming from the concentrated blood vessels within the lesion. They are most frequently found on the torso, arms, and shoulders. Since cherry angiomas are non-cancerous and pose no health risk, their removal is almost always elective and cosmetic.
Standard Removal Procedures and Costs
The cost of removing a cherry angioma is influenced by the technique a medical professional employs to destroy the vascular tissue. Electrocautery, or electrodessication, uses a fine needle to deliver an electric current, generating heat that seals the blood vessels. This technique is often one of the most affordable options, sometimes priced as low as $50 to $150 per small lesion.
Cryosurgery involves applying liquid nitrogen to the angioma, which freezes and destroys the cells. Laser treatment, particularly using a Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) or a KTP laser, is highly effective because it specifically targets the red pigment (hemoglobin) in the blood vessels. Laser removal is often considered the standard for minimal scarring, but it carries a higher per-lesion or session cost.
A single session of laser treatment for one or two angiomas might cost between $150 and $300, while treating multiple lesions often ranges from $250 to $500. For larger, more raised lesions, a shave excision may be necessary, where the growth is shaved off flush with the skin under local anesthesia, which may be priced higher. Many clinics offer a bulk rate, meaning the cost per angioma decreases significantly when a cluster of five or more is removed during the same visit.
Variables That Affect Pricing
The final out-of-pocket cost is subject to several variables beyond the removal method itself. Geographic location plays a significant role, with prices generally being higher in major metropolitan areas compared to rural or suburban practices. The type of professional performing the procedure also dictates the fee structure, as a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon often charges more than a general practitioner.
The size and depth of the angioma directly impact the required treatment time and complexity, influencing the cost. Larger or deeper lesions may require multiple treatment passes, increasing the final price. The total number of lesions removed is a major factor, with many providers offering tiered pricing. Patients should also inquire whether the quoted price includes a consultation fee, as some practices charge separately for the initial assessment.
When Insurance Covers Removal
Cherry angioma removal is overwhelmingly classified as a cosmetic procedure, which means it is generally not covered by health insurance plans. Because the growths are benign and do not pose a risk to health, insurance companies typically consider the removal elective. However, there are specific circumstances where removal may be deemed medically necessary, potentially allowing for coverage.
Medically necessary removal is often approved if the angioma is located in a position where it is chronically irritated by clothing or friction, leading to frequent bleeding or trauma. If the lesion bleeds often, or if a doctor is concerned about the diagnosis, a biopsy may be required to rule out a more serious condition, such as an amelanotic melanoma. In such cases, the removal is performed for diagnostic purposes, which is often covered by insurance. Individuals seeking coverage must obtain clear documentation from their dermatologist stating the medical necessity of the procedure.