21137 Rdctj forehead cntrg only
Also known as: forehead reduction, forehead contouring, bossing reduction
Reduction-contouring of the forehead using burring or bone removal alone, without implant or bone graft placement.
In Plain Language
Reducing prominent forehead bone; Flattening a prominent forehead; Smoothing forehead bumps
Clinical Context
Used for excessive frontal bossing, aesthetic improvement, or to correct deformity from trauma or disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.98 |
| Total RVU | 9.98 |
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 9.98, this code ranks in the 59th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21137?
CPT 21137 (Rdctj forehead cntrg only) is a Surgery code. Reduction-contouring of the forehead using burring or bone removal alone, without implant or bone graft placement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21137?
The work RVU for CPT 21137 is 9.98. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21137 used?
Used for excessive frontal bossing, aesthetic improvement, or to correct deformity from trauma or disease.
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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.