15836 excision excessive skin arm
Also known as: arm exc, brachioplasty, arm lift
Excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue from the arm, typically the upper arm in post-weight loss patients.
In Plain Language
Arm skin tightening surgery; Upper arm lift; Loose arm skin removal
Clinical Context
Frequently performed in post-bariatric patients with significant upper arm skin laxity. Used to improve arm contour and appearance after major weight reduction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.34 |
| Total RVU | 10.34 |
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 10.34, this code ranks in the 60th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15836?
CPT 15836 (excision excessive skin arm) is a Surgery code. Excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue from the arm, typically the upper arm in post-weight loss patients.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15836?
The work RVU for CPT 15836 is 10.34. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Body Contouring. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 15836 used?
Frequently performed in post-bariatric patients with significant upper arm skin laxity. Used to improve arm contour and appearance after major weight reduction.
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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.