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Official Description

Subcutaneous injection of filling material (eg, collagen); 5.1 to 10.0 cc

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 11952 involves the subcutaneous injection of a filling material, which is commonly collagen. This procedure is typically performed to address various dermatological concerns, including the treatment of acne scars and facial wrinkles. The injection is administered beneath the skin's surface, allowing the filling material to provide volume and improve the appearance of the skin. The specific volume of filling material used in this procedure ranges from 5.1 to 10.0 cc, which is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic results. It is important to note that there are different codes for varying volumes of injection: CPT® Code 11950 is used for injections of 1 cc or less, CPT® Code 11951 is for injections between 1.1 to 5.0 cc, and CPT® Code 11954 is designated for injections exceeding 10.0 cc. This structured coding system helps ensure accurate billing and documentation for the services rendered.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The subcutaneous injection of filling material, as described by CPT® Code 11952, is indicated for various dermatological conditions. The primary indications include:

  • Acne Scars The procedure is performed to improve the appearance of acne scars, which can be a source of distress for many patients.
  • Facial Wrinkles This injection is also indicated for the treatment of facial wrinkles, helping to restore a smoother and more youthful appearance.
  • Other Dermatological Defects In addition to acne scars and wrinkles, this procedure may be utilized for other skin imperfections that require volumization or correction.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the subcutaneous injection of filling material involves several key steps to ensure safety and effectiveness. The following procedural steps are outlined:

  • Preparation The physician begins by preparing the treatment area, which may include cleansing the skin to reduce the risk of infection. The patient may also be asked about any allergies or previous reactions to fillers.
  • Marking the Injection Sites The physician will then mark the specific areas on the skin where the filling material will be injected. This step is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic outcome.
  • Injection of Filling Material Using a sterile syringe, the physician injects the filling material subcutaneously at the marked sites. The volume of material injected will be between 5.1 to 10.0 cc, as specified by CPT® Code 11952. The physician may use a technique that allows for even distribution of the material to ensure a smooth appearance.
  • Post-Injection Assessment After the injections, the physician will assess the treated areas to ensure that the filling material has been properly placed and that the desired results are achieved. Any immediate reactions will also be monitored.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the subcutaneous injection of filling material, patients may experience some swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection sites. These effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days. Patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities and direct sun exposure for a short period following the procedure to minimize complications. Additionally, the physician may provide specific aftercare instructions, including recommendations for skincare products or follow-up appointments to assess the results and address any concerns. It is essential for patients to adhere to these guidelines to ensure optimal healing and satisfaction with the results.

Short Descr TX CONTOUR DEFECTS 5.1-10CC
Medium Descr SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION FILLING MATRL 5.1-10.0CC
Long Descr Subcutaneous injection of filling material (eg, collagen); 5.1 to 10.0 cc
Status Code Restricted Coverage
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6A - Minor procedures - skin
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 174 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on skin and breast
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
QS Monitored anesthesia care service
QX Crna service: with medical direction by a physician
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Short Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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