Denial of 15839 with 19342

Question:

My doctor performed 19342 (exchange of larger implant to smaller implant), 15771 (grafting of autologous fat) and 15839 (excision of excessive skin). We were denied for 15839 and I have sent a corrected claim with updated diagnosis codes for 15839 but the claim was again denied. Can you help please?

Answer:

CPT 15839 (Excision, excessive skin and subcutaneous tissue (includes lipectomy); other area) would never be separately reported for only excision of excess skin during a breast reconstruction or revision procedure. This service is included in whatever primary procedure code you’re billing.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 05/13/21.