How To Use CPT Code 15835

CPT code 15835 describes the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue, including lipectomy, of the buttock. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 15835?

CPT 15835 is used to describe the surgical procedure of removing excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue from the buttock. This procedure may also include the removal of excess fat using a cannula or hollow needles. The surgeon makes a horizontal incision over the buttock area and excises the excess skin and tissue using a scalpel and cautery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 15835 is: ‘Excision, excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue (includes lipectomy) buttock.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT code 15835 involves the following steps:

1. The surgeon makes a horizontal incision over the buttock area using a scalpel.
2. Excess fat may be removed using a cannula or hollow needles through suction.
3. The surgeon excises the excessive loose skin using a scalpel and cautery.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 15835 is used for patients who have excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue in the buttock area that needs to be removed. This procedure is typically performed for cosmetic reasons or to improve mobility and comfort. The patient must have a medical necessity for the excision, and the procedure must be performed by a qualified surgeon.

5. When to use CPT code 15835

CPT code 15835 should be used when a surgeon performs the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue in the buttock area. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description and is medically necessary for the patient.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 15835, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Medical necessity for the procedure
• Description of the excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 15835, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 15835 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue in the buttock area to improve mobility and comfort.
2. A cosmetic surgery patient receives a buttock lift procedure, which includes the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue.
3. A patient with significant weight loss undergoes a body contouring procedure that includes the excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue in the buttock area.
4. A patient with a medical condition that causes excess skin in the buttock area undergoes excision surgery to alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life.
5. A patient with a history of trauma to the buttock area undergoes excision of scar tissue and excessive skin to improve appearance and function.
6. A patient with a congenital condition that causes excess skin and tissue in the buttock area undergoes excision surgery for medical and cosmetic reasons.
7. A patient with a chronic skin condition undergoes excision of excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue in the buttock area to alleviate symptoms and improve overall skin health.
8. A patient with a history of multiple pregnancies undergoes excision surgery to remove excess skin and tissue in the buttock area and restore pre-pregnancy body contours.
9. A patient with a history of liposuction in the buttock area undergoes excision surgery to remove residual excess skin and tissue for optimal aesthetic results.
10. A patient with a medical condition that causes excess fat and skin in the buttock area undergoes excision surgery to improve mobility and reduce the risk of complications.