15838 excision excsv submental fat pad
Also known as: submental liposuction, submental exc, neck lift, double chin removal
Excision of excessive submental fat pad and skin, addressing excess tissue in the submandibular and neck region beneath the chin.
In Plain Language
Under-chin fat and skin removal; Double chin elimination; Neck tightening
Clinical Context
Performed for cosmetic improvement of submental fullness or for patients with significant loose skin in the neck-chin area after weight loss. May be combined with liposuction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.04 |
| Total RVU | 8.04 |
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 8.04, this code ranks in the 50th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 15838?
CPT 15838 (excision excsv submental fat pad) is a Surgery code. Excision of excessive submental fat pad and skin, addressing excess tissue in the submandibular and neck region beneath the chin.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 15838?
The work RVU for CPT 15838 is 8.04. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Facial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 15838 used?
Performed for cosmetic improvement of submental fullness or for patients with significant loose skin in the neck-chin area after weight loss. May be combined with liposuction.
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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.