15789 Chemical peel facial dermal
Also known as: deep chemical peel, dermal peel
Chemical peel of facial skin extending into dermal layer. Intermediate to deep chemical peel for deeper wrinkles, scars, and significant aging.
In Plain Language
deeper chemical treatment of face; dermal chemical peel
Clinical Context
Used for deep facial wrinkles, acne scars, and severe photodamage with longer recovery than superficial peels.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.79 |
| Total RVU | 4.79 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.79, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15789?
CPT 15789 (Chemical peel facial dermal) is a Surgery code. Chemical peel of facial skin extending into dermal layer. Intermediate to deep chemical peel for deeper wrinkles, scars, and significant aging.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15789?
The work RVU for CPT 15789 is 4.79. This code is primarily used by Dermatology, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 15789 used?
Used for deep facial wrinkles, acne scars, and severe photodamage with longer recovery than superficial peels.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.