38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.118
Burn Scar S Of The Head Face Or Neck Scar S Of The Head Face Or Neck Due To Other Causes Or Other Disfigurement Of The Head Face Or Neck
dc-7800-burn-scar-s-of-the-head-face-or-neck-scar-s-of-the-head-face-or-neck-due-to-other-causes-or-other-disfigurement-of-the-head-face-or-neck
Skin
Diagnostic code
7800
Why your DC matters: DC 7800 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 7800 — Burn Scar S Of The Head Face Or Neck Scar S Of The Head Face Or Neck Due To Other Causes Or Other Disfigurement Of The Head Face Or Neck — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.118 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (7800) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7800”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 7800 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 7800 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Scars are the most-missed stacking opportunity in the entire VA rating system. DC 7800 covers head/face/neck disfigurement; DC 7801/7802 cover deep/superficial nonlinear scars elsewhere; DC 7804 covers painful or unstable scars; DC 7805 covers other disabling effects. ALL stack on top of the primary condition (e.g., your knee replacement is rated separately from the painful surgical scar). Most veterans claim none of them.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 80% | Visible or palpable tissue loss AND either gross distortion or asymmetry of three features OR six or more characteristics of disfigurement. | C&P scar DBQ documenting tissue loss + feature distortion + characteristic count. Color photographs essential. |
| 50% | Visible/palpable tissue loss AND distortion of two features OR four-to-five characteristics of disfigurement. | Scar DBQ with feature/characteristic checklist; photos at exam. |
| 30% | Visible/palpable tissue loss OR distortion of one feature OR two-to-three characteristics of disfigurement. | Scar DBQ; visible photos demonstrating size + texture + color difference. |
| 10% | One characteristic of disfigurement. | DBQ documenting any one of the 8 listed characteristics (size, texture, depression, induration, etc.). |
What Qualifies Under DC 7800 (Scars)?
Service-connected scar on head, face, or neck
Scar must be on the head, face, or neck. Body scars rate under DC 7801/7802. Painful or unstable scars (anywhere) rate under DC 7804. Other disabling effects under DC 7805.
Eight characteristics of disfigurement
Per Note (1) to DC 7800, the eight characteristics are:
- • Scar ≥ 5 inches (13 cm) in length
- • Scar ≥ ¼ inch (0.6 cm) wide at widest point
- • Surface contour elevated or depressed on palpation
- • Adherent to underlying tissue
- • Hypo- or hyper-pigmented over ≥ 6 square inches
- • Abnormal skin texture over ≥ 6 square inches
- • Missing underlying soft tissue over ≥ 6 square inches
- • Skin indurated and inflexible over ≥ 6 square inches
Distortion or asymmetry of features
Eye, ear, nose, mouth, chin. Even partial distortion of ONE feature anchors a 30% rating regardless of characteristic count.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Characteristics of disfigurement (eight listed)”
The 8 listed characteristics — scar ≥ 5 inches, scar ≥ ¼ inch wide, surface contour elevated/depressed, adherent to underlying tissue, hypo-/hyper-pigmented over 6 sq inches, abnormal texture over 6 sq inches, missing underlying soft tissue, skin indurated/inflexible over 6 sq inches. Each one MUST be explicitly checked off in the DBQ.
“Distortion of features”
Distortion of even one feature (eye, ear, nose, mouth, chin) anchors a 30% rating regardless of characteristic count. Push the examiner to evaluate symmetry, not just the scar itself.
“Three or more scars that are unstable or painful”
DC 7804 caps at 30% for 5+ painful/unstable scars. Each painful surgical scar from a separate service-connected condition should be listed. Most veterans claim only one.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Color photographs of all scars
CRITICALTake well-lit, ruler-in-frame photos of every scar. Multiple angles for face/head/neck. These are admitted into evidence and weigh more than narrative descriptions.
Scar DBQ for each anatomical region
CRITICALSeparate DBQ for head/face/neck (DC 7800) vs. body (DC 7801/7802/7804/7805). One exam can complete both.
Operative reports for every service-connected surgery
IMPORTANTEvery SC surgery left a scar. Pull op reports for: knee/hip/shoulder repairs, cardiac procedures, abdominal surgeries, skin biopsies, etc.
Symptom log for painful/unstable scars
IMPORTANTNote frequency of pain or breakdown. 'Painful' under DC 7804 requires more than incidental discomfort.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring your own measuring tape and color photos
Examiners often eyeball measurements. Hand them measured dimensions for each scar — surface area, length, width — with photos to back them up.
Have the examiner check ALL 8 characteristics out loud
Each of the 8 characteristics of disfigurement should be answered yes/no on the DBQ. If the examiner skips any, ask them to address each one.
Don't let the examiner say 'well-healed' without checking texture/color
'Well-healed' is rater shorthand for 0%. Push for examination of texture, color, adherence — the actual characteristics.
Press on the scar — note any pain reaction
DC 7804 painful-scar rating requires the scar itself to be tender on palpation. If pressing hurts, say so explicitly during the exam.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Only claiming one scar when multiple exist
Each scar from a separate service-connected source is independently ratable. Two painful scars on different limbs = 10%, three = 20%, five+ = 30% under DC 7804.
Ignoring scars from SC surgeries
Every knee/back/abdominal SC surgery left a scar. The scar is its own rating, ON TOP OF the underlying joint or organ rating.
Accepting 0% for 'well-healed' scars
'Well-healed' isn't a rating criterion. The 8 characteristics ARE the criteria. If even one applies, that's 10%.
Filing scars under the primary joint DC
Knee scar is NOT part of the knee rating — it's a separate DC 7804 rating. Insist on separate evaluation.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Audit every SC surgery for an unclaimed scar
Pull your service-connected medical history. Every surgery — knee, back, shoulder, abdominal, skin lesion removal — left a scar. Each one is a separate DC 7804 claim if painful, DC 7805 if it limits motion. Most veterans miss every single one.
⚡ Stack 7800 + 7804 + 7805 on the same scar
A facial scar with distortion (7800) that's also painful on palpation (7804) and limits jaw motion (7805) gets all three ratings. They don't pyramid because each addresses a distinct functional impact.
⚡ Color photos are worth more than DBQ checkboxes
Color photographs with a ruler in frame are admitted into the evidentiary record. A clear photo of a 6-inch depressed facial scar will overcome a sloppy DBQ that says 'well-healed.'
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Painful or unstable scars
STRONGDC 7804
Every SC surgical scar that hurts on palpation is a separate rating up to 30%.
Limited motion from scar contracture
MODERATEDC 7805
When a scar restricts joint or facial motion, the limitation rates separately under whatever DC covers the motion.
Disfigurement-related depression
MODERATEDC 9434
Facial disfigurement triggering body-image/social-anxiety depression is recognized secondary.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
One characteristic of disfigurement OR one painful scar.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
Distortion of one feature OR 2–3 characteristics OR 3–4 painful/unstable scars (DC 7804).
50% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,132.90
TOTAL
$1,132.90/mo
Distortion of two features OR 4–5 characteristics.
80% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$2,102.15
TOTAL
$2,102.15/mo
Tissue loss + distortion of 3 features OR 6+ characteristics.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
📏What are 'Characteristics of Disfigurement'?
Eight specific findings listed in Note (1) to DC 7800. The number present drives the rating tier (1=10%, 2-3=30%, 4-5=50%, 6+=80%).
😣What counts as 'Painful' under DC 7804?
More than incidental discomfort. The scar tissue itself must be tender on palpation. Document with chart notes and examiner findings.
🔗Can scars stack with the primary condition?
Yes. A scar from a service-connected surgery is rated SEPARATELY from the underlying joint or organ rating. They don't pyramid because they address different functional impairments.
How to File Your Claim
Take ruler-in-frame color photos of every SC scar
Front, side, close-up. Daylight. Note the surgery/event that created each scar.
File 21-526EZ listing each scar separately under the appropriate DC
DC 7800 for head/face/neck. DC 7801 (deep, ≥ 12 sq in), 7802 (superficial, ≥ 144 sq in). DC 7804 for painful/unstable. DC 7805 for other disabling effects.
Submit operative reports for every SC surgery
Each leaves a scar. The op report establishes the date and nature of the scar — critical for service connection.
Push for separate exams or comprehensive DBQ coverage
Demand the scar DBQ explicitly check all 8 characteristics. If the examiner skips any, file HLR or supplemental.
Don't forget DC 7805 for functional impact
Scar limiting joint motion or causing nerve symptoms? Rate the functional loss separately under 7805 or the joint's own DC.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
Scars from SC surgeries are ALWAYS ratable
If the underlying condition is service-connected, the surgical scar is too — directly. No nexus letter needed.
Painful = own rating regardless of size
Under DC 7804, even a small scar that hurts on palpation is 10%. Five painful scars = 30%. Most veterans claim zero.
Color photos > narrative descriptions
A clear ruler-in-frame photo is admitted into evidence and outweighs sloppy examiner language like 'well-healed.'
Distortion of features anchors 30%
Even partial distortion of ONE facial feature (eye, ear, nose, mouth, chin) is 30% regardless of characteristic count.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a rating for a scar even if my primary condition is already rated?
Yes. The scar is a separate disability and rates separately. Per § 4.14, this is not pyramiding — the scar addresses a distinct functional impact (pain, disfigurement, motion loss).
How many painful scars can I rate under DC 7804?
1–2 painful/unstable scars = 10%, 3–4 = 20%, 5+ = 30%. Each must be from a service-connected source.
What's the difference between DC 7801 and DC 7802?
DC 7801 = deep nonlinear scars on body (≥ 12 sq inches = 10%, up to ≥ 144 sq in = 40%). DC 7802 = superficial nonlinear (≥ 144 sq in = 10%). Linear scars rate under DC 7805 or by characteristic count under DC 7800.
Do biopsy scars count?
If the biopsy was for a service-connected condition, yes. The scar rates under DC 7804 if painful, or by size/characteristic under 7801/7802.
Can scars contribute to TDIU?
Yes if functional impact is documented (e.g., facial disfigurement preventing customer-facing work; painful scars limiting use of an extremity). Document the occupational impact in the DBQ.
Official Regulatory Source
Scars are rated under 38 CFR § 4.118, DCs 7800 (head/face/neck), 7801, 7802, 7804, 7805.
38 CFR § 4.118 — Skin (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 7800 for the 8 characteristics in Note (1).
⚠️ Verify with a VSO
§ 4.118 was substantially restructured in 2018 (effective Aug 13, 2018). The 8 characteristics and DC 7804 painful-scar tiers are post-2018 versions.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7800, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 7800 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.