Skin tags are one of the most common benign skin conditions encountered in clinical practice. For medical coders and billers, accurately applying the correct ICD-10 codes for skin tags is essential to ensure clean claim submission and prevent denials. Though the condition itself is minor, improper coding can result in unnecessary revenue loss and compliance risks.
This guide will walk you through the correct diagnosis code for skin tags, coding variations based on symptoms and body site, documentation tips, and how to differentiate between cosmetic and medically necessary cases.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags, or acrochordons, are soft, flesh-colored skin growths that often appear in areas where the skin rubs against itself — such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, and under the breasts. While they’re benign, patients may request removal for cosmetic reasons or due to irritation, bleeding, or discomfort caused by friction.
From a coding perspective, the challenge lies in identifying:
• The correct ICD-10 code
• Whether the service is billable
• How to document medical necessity
• When to use modifiers or related procedural codes
Primary ICD-10 Code for Skin Tags
The most commonly used ICD-10 code for skin tags is:
• L91.8 – Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin
This code is used when the provider documents symptomatic skin tags that cause irritation, pain, or bleeding. It is considered a billable diagnosis under most payer policies when justified with proper documentation.
Alternate ICD-10 Codes for Skin Tags
In some cases, other codes may be more accurate depending on the clinical presentation or location of the tag:
• D23.9 – Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified
Used when the provider refers to the tag as a benign tumor, especially on the face, neck, or trunk.
• L98.8 – Other specified disorders of the skin
Appropriate when the tag is inflamed or linked to an underlying skin condition.
• K64.4 – Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags
Specifically used for skin tags located in the anal region, typically post-hemorrhoidectomy.
Is Skin Tag Removal Billable?
Yes — but only when medical necessity is documented. Most insurers will cover skin tag removal only if one or more of the following conditions are met:
Medically necessary (billable):
• Skin tag bleeds regularly
• Causes pain or discomfort
• Interferes with daily activity (e.g., clothing, movement)
• Shows signs of infection or inflammation
• Risk of malignancy (e.g., changes in shape or color)
Cosmetic (non-billable):
• Removed solely for aesthetic reasons
• No documentation of symptoms or complications
• Patient request without medical justification
Always check the patient’s insurance policy. Payers like Medicare require documented symptoms and may request progress notes to support the claim.
Documentation Tips for Coders and Providers
To ensure claim approval for skin tags ICD-10 codes, the provider’s note must include:
• Location of the skin tag(s)
• Size, number, and appearance
• Symptoms such as irritation, bleeding, pain
• Duration and progression
• Functional limitations (if any)
• Removal method (e.g., excision, cryotherapy)
Without this information, the claim may be denied—even if the correct code is used.
CPT Code Pairing and Modifier Use
Skin tag diagnosis codes are often billed with one or more procedural CPT codes. Proper pairing ensures accurate claim processing.
Common CPT codes for removal:
• 11200 – Removal of skin tags, up to 15 lesions
• 11201 – Each additional 10 skin tags (used with 11200)
Common modifiers:
• -25 – Significant, separately identifiable E/M service
• -59 – Distinct procedural service (when billing multiple procedures)
• -RT / -LT – If treatment is site-specific and laterality matters
Real-World Coding Scenarios
Scenario 1: Symptomatic neck skin tags
Patient reports rubbing and redness.
Code: L91.8
CPT: 11200
Modifiers: None unless combined with other services
Scenario 2: Facial skin tag removed due to appearance only
No symptoms reported.
Code: D23.0
Billable?: No — cosmetic and likely denied
Scenario 3: Multiple inflamed tags in groin region
Tags are bleeding and interfering with movement.
Code: L98.8
CPT: 11200 + 11201 if more than 15 removed
Modifiers: -59 (if applicable)
Scenario 4: Hemorrhoidal tag after hemorrhoid surgery
Persistent tissue at the anal verge.
Code: K64.4
Billable: Yes, with appropriate surgical documentation
Industry Insight: Skin Tag Coding Trends
According to CMS and commercial payer audits:
• Skin tag removals are a common source of cosmetic vs medical necessity disputes
• Claims lacking symptom documentation are frequently denied
• Many providers use L91.8 as a catch-all without supporting detail
• Coders should watch for overuse of D23.9 and L98.8 in the absence of clear symptoms
Proper use of ICD-10 codes for skin tags can reduce denials, improve audit defense, and streamline the billing cycle for dermatology and primary care providers.
Who Supports Proper Coding Behind the Scenes?
Accurate coding and clean claim submission often depend on more than just knowing the right ICD-10 or CPT codes. It also involves understanding payer rules, recognizing documentation patterns, and applying updates consistently across workflows. In many practices, these tasks are supported by experienced billing teams who stay current with code changes and audit trends.
Groups like Steady Medical Billing are there who handle behind-the-scenes medical coding, helping providers maintain compliance and reduce denials. Their work supports coders, billers, and front-office staff by ensuring each step—from code selection to claim follow-up—follows best practices.
Final Thoughts
Skin tag coding may seem simple on the surface, but accurate selection of the right diagnosis code for skin tags requires clinical context, documentation, and coding awareness.
To summarize:
• Use L91.8 when tags are symptomatic
• Choose alternate codes when tags are inflamed, neoplastic, or located in the anal region
• Confirm medical necessity with strong documentation
• Pair diagnosis codes correctly with CPTs like 11200/11201
• Use modifiers when procedures overlap or involve distinct services
Accurate coding keeps claims clean, reduces audit risk, and supports proper reimbursement.
