21282 Lateral canthopexy
Also known as: lateral canthopexy, lateral canthus plication
Lateral canthopexy involving surgical repositioning or tightening of the lateral canthus to correct canthal laxity or alter eyelid position.
In Plain Language
Tightening outer corner of eye; Eye corner surgery
Clinical Context
Used for lateral canthal laxity, ectropion, or for aesthetic modification of eyelid position.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.16 |
| Total RVU | 4.16 |
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 4.16, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 21282?
CPT 21282 (Lateral canthopexy) is a Surgery code. Lateral canthopexy involving surgical repositioning or tightening of the lateral canthus to correct canthal laxity or alter eyelid position.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 21282?
The work RVU for CPT 21282 is 4.16. This code is primarily used by Oculoplastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 21282 used?
Used for lateral canthal laxity, ectropion, or for aesthetic modification of eyelid position.
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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.