21209 Reduction of facial bones
Also known as: facial bone reduction, bone reduction contouring
Reduction of facial bones through burring, grinding, or osteotomy to decrease projection or correct prominent features.
In Plain Language
Reducing prominent facial bones; Facial bone reshaping by removal
Clinical Context
Used for prominent facial features, post-traumatic deformity, or aesthetic refinement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.62 |
| Total RVU | 7.62 |
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 7.62, this code ranks in the 48th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21209?
CPT 21209 (Reduction of facial bones) is a Surgery code. Reduction of facial bones through burring, grinding, or osteotomy to decrease projection or correct prominent features.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21209?
The work RVU for CPT 21209 is 7.62. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21209 used?
Used for prominent facial features, post-traumatic deformity, or aesthetic refinement.
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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.