21138 Rdctj forehead cntrg & prostc
Also known as: forehead reduction with implant, forehead contouring with prosthesis
Reduction-contouring of the forehead with placement of a prosthetic implant to enhance or reshape the contour.
In Plain Language
Forehead reshaping with implant; Reducing forehead while adding shaping implant; Complex forehead reconstruction
Clinical Context
Used when reduction alone is insufficient and augmentation is needed for optimal contour or projection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.55 |
| Total RVU | 12.55 |
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 12.55, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21138?
CPT 21138 (Rdctj forehead cntrg & prostc) is a Surgery code. Reduction-contouring of the forehead with placement of a prosthetic implant to enhance or reshape the contour.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21138?
The work RVU for CPT 21138 is 12.55. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21138 used?
Used when reduction alone is insufficient and augmentation is needed for optimal contour or projection.
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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.