21280 Medial canthopexy
Also known as: medial canthopexy, medial canthus plication
Medial canthopexy involving surgical repositioning of the medial canthus to correct lacrimal-related problems or enhance eye position.
In Plain Language
Tightening inner corner of eye; Eye corner surgery
Clinical Context
Used for medial canthal laxity, telecanthus, or for functional correction of lacrimal drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.95 |
| Total RVU | 6.95 |
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 6.95, this code ranks in the 45th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21280?
CPT 21280 (Medial canthopexy) is a Surgery code. Medial canthopexy involving surgical repositioning of the medial canthus to correct lacrimal-related problems or enhance eye position.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21280?
The work RVU for CPT 21280 is 6.95. This code is primarily used by Oculoplastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21280 used?
Used for medial canthal laxity, telecanthus, or for functional correction of lacrimal drainage.
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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.