Disfigurement Involving the Head, Face, or Neck
Disfigurement Involving the Head, Face, or Neck is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 7800 in the Skin category. Maximum rating: 80%.
Skin Condition Rating Reference
Body Surface Area - Rule of Nines
Source: 38 CFR ยง 4.118 - Schedule of Skin Ratings
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 80% | Six or more characteristics of disfigurement |
| 50% | Four or five characteristics of disfigurement |
| 30% | Two or three characteristics of disfigurement |
| 10% | One characteristic of disfigurement |
Important Notes
EIGHT CHARACTERISTICS OF DISFIGUREMENT: (1) Scar 5+ inches (13+ cm) in length, (2) Scar at least 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) wide at widest part, (3) Surface contour elevated or depressed on palpation, (4) Scar adherent to underlying tissue, (5) Hypo- or hyper-pigmented area >6 sq in (39 sq cm), (6) Abnormal skin texture (irregular, atrophic, shiny, scaly, etc.) >6 sq in, (7) Underlying soft tissue missing >6 sq in, (8) Skin indurated and inflexible >6 sq in. Can be rated in addition to painful/unstable scars (7804).
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 7800 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.