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Evidence checklist

Disfigurement of Head, Face, or Neck

DC 780038 CFR § 4.118Skin

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Unretouched color photographs from multiple anglesCritical

The VA requires unretouched color photos showing your scars or disfigurement on your head, face, or neck. Take photos from the front, both sides, and any other angle that shows the full extent of the problem.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking disfigurement to serviceCritical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that your disfigurement was caused by an injury, burn, surgery, or event during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

C&P examination

0 of 3 collected
Detailed scar measurements (length, width, area, depth)Critical

A doctor should measure each scar's length, width, and total area. They should also note whether the scar is raised, sunken, stuck to tissue underneath, or has changed skin color or texture.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
Documentation of each characteristic of disfigurement presentCritical

The examiner should list which of the eight characteristics of disfigurement apply: scar length 5+ inches, width 1/4+ inch, surface elevated or depressed, adherent to tissue, pigment change over 6 sq in, abnormal texture over 6 sq in, soft tissue missing over 6 sq in, or skin indurated over 6 sq in.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
Documentation of tissue loss and facial asymmetry (if present)

If you have visible tissue loss or your face looks uneven, the examiner should note which features are affected (nose, chin, forehead, eyes, ears, cheeks, or lips).

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Scars/DisfigurementCritical

A standardized VA form filled out by a doctor that captures scar measurements, characteristics of disfigurement, and tissue loss in the format the VA needs for rating.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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