How VA Rates Scars: DC 7800-7805 Disfigurement, Area, and Pain Criteria

Scars of the head, face, and neck are rated under DC 7800 based on visible characteristics of disfigurement and tissue loss. Characteristics include scars greater than five inches in length, abnormal texture, depressed or elevated surfaces, adherence to underlying tissue, and visible distortion of facial features such as the eyes, nose, or lips. Ratings range from 10% for one characteristic to 80% for tissue loss with profound distortion.

Scars on the trunk and extremities are evaluated by total surface area in square inches under DC 7801 (deep scars with underlying soft tissue loss) or DC 7802 (superficial scars without deep damage). Under DC 7801, an area of 6 to 12 square inches receives 10%, 12 to 72 square inches receives 20%, 72 to 144 square inches receives 30%, and greater than 144 square inches receives 40%.

Under DC 7804, scars that are tender, painful to touch, or unstable (meaning they frequently break down, ulcerate, or reopen) are rated independently of their size. One or two painful or unstable scars receive 10%; three or four receive 20%; and five or more receive 30%. A scar can be rated for pain under DC 7804 even if its physical dimensions are too small to qualify under the surface area tables.

Under 38 CFR 4.118(b), when scars affect separate anatomical regions, they can be evaluated separately and combined under VA math (38 CFR 4.25). Furthermore, if a scar is both painful and disfiguring or covers substantial surface area, the veteran may receive separate ratings under DC 7804 and DC 7800, 7801, or 7802, provided each evaluation compensates a distinct functional impairment.

Claims require a Scars DBQ where the examiner uses a surgical ruler to record exact dimensions (length and width in centimeters or inches), notes color contrast and contour irregularities, and tests for tenderness on palpation. High-resolution medical photographs alongside a ruler provide compelling corroborating evidence.