Can a Settlement Cover Scar Treatment Costs?

Can a Settlement Cover Scar Treatment Costs?

When a physical injury heals, the scar that remains often tells a story most people would rather forget. For many accident victims, these scars serve as daily reminders of the trauma they endured, reminders that can weigh heavily on confidence, self-image, and emotional well-being. It’s natural to want to move forward without that constant visual cue of what happened.

At Roy Injury Law, we understand that recovery goes beyond medical treatment. For more than 30 years, our firm has helped clients across Louisiana pursue the compensation they need to heal physically, emotionally, and financially. The good news is that, in many cases, a personal injury settlement can and should account for the cost of scar treatment as part of your recovery. Understanding what influences that coverage can help you make informed decisions about your claim and pursue a recovery that reflects your full experience.

What Kinds of Scar Treatments Can Be Included in a Settlement?

Reasonable medical expenses tied to an injury are often recoverable in a personal injury claim. This means that if a treatment is deemed medically necessary for your physical or psychological recovery, its costs can be included in your settlement. Examples of covered treatments may include:

• Medical scar revision, such as surgical procedures
• Laser therapy or injections to reduce the appearance
• Reconstructive or plastic surgery
• Dermatological treatments and follow-up care

Coverage often depends on the purpose of the treatment. Procedures aimed at improving function or reducing visible disfigurement are easier to prove and justify than purely cosmetic ones.

How Much Compensation Will I Get for Scar Treatment?

Compensation for scar treatment varies widely because it is based on the unique circumstances of each case. Several factors come into play when determining how much you may receive. These include:

• Severity of the Scar: Larger and deeper scars typically result in higher compensation, as they often require more extensive treatment and have a greater impact on appearance.
• Location of the Scar: Scars on visible areas, such as the face, neck, or hands, generally lead to higher compensation compared to those on less visible parts of the body.
• Your Profession: Your job or career path can also affect compensation. For example, if the scar impacts someone in a public-facing role, such as an actor, model, or salesperson, the damages may be considered more significant due to career implications.
• Age and Lifestyle: Younger individuals or those whose lifestyle is significantly affected by the scar (e.g., athletes whose mobility is impacted by scar tissue) may receive higher compensation.
• Circumstances of the Injury: The event that caused the scar, whether it was due to an accident, medical malpractice, or another party’s negligence, can influence the amount awarded.

An attorney can work to build a strong case that accurately values the full extent of your damages.

Can I Sue for Emotional Distress From Scarring?

Yes, you can include emotional distress as part of your damages in a personal injury claim. Scarring and disfigurement can trigger anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social activities. These emotional struggles are often included under the category of “pain and suffering.” Because visible scarring provides a tangible, long-lasting reminder of the trauma, it often strengthens an emotional distress claim. It is important to be open with your attorney about any mental health challenges you are facing, as this helps document the full scope of your suffering.

How Do I Prove Scar Treatment Costs in a Personal Injury Case?

To prove the costs, you must provide thorough documentation linking the scar and its required treatments to the accident. An attorney helps gather and present critical evidence, including medical records, detailed treatment plans from physicians, and even before-and-after photos. It’s also possible to include the cost of future procedures, provided they are supported by a medical opinion. For example, if a doctor expects you will need multiple laser sessions or revision surgeries, your attorney can calculate these projected costs and include them in your claim.

Healing Is More Than Closing a Wound

Seeking treatment for a scar isn’t about vanity; it’s a vital part of your emotional and physical healing journey. You deserve to feel whole again after an accident, and a fair personal injury settlement should reflect that goal.

If you are living with scars from an injury caused by someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face it alone. Chris J. Roy, Jr. is an Alexandria personal injury attorney who understands the profound impact of scarring. Contact Roy Injury Law today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you pursue full compensation for your recovery.