Overview of CPT Code 15787: Injection of autologous fat for soft tissue augmentation

CPT Code 15787 refers to the injection of autologous fat, which is fat harvested from the patient's own body, for the purpose of soft tissue augmentation. This procedure is commonly used in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to enhance facial features, restore volume, and improve the appearance of scars or deformities.

When CPT Code 15787 is Used?

This procedure is indicated in various clinical scenarios, including but not limited to:

Facial volume loss due to aging or weight loss
Reconstruction after trauma or surgery
Enhancement of lips, cheeks, or other facial features
Correction of contour deformities
Improvement of the appearance of scars

Symptoms Indicating This Procedure

Patients may report the following symptoms that could indicate the need for this procedure:

Sunken or hollow areas in the face
Loss of volume in the cheeks or temples
Thin or wrinkled skin
Visible scars or deformities
Desire for fuller lips or enhanced facial contours

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the need for soft tissue augmentation using autologous fat:

Aging, leading to loss of subcutaneous fat
Genetic predisposition to facial volume loss
Significant weight loss or gain
Trauma or surgical history affecting facial structure
Certain medical conditions affecting skin elasticity

Diagnostic Tests Before Procedure

Before the procedure, the following diagnostic tests may be performed:

Physical examination of the areas to be treated
Medical history review to assess suitability
Imaging studies if structural issues are suspected

Procedure Description

The procedure involves several key steps:

Consultation to discuss goals and expectations
Harvesting fat from a donor site, typically the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction
Processing the harvested fat to prepare it for injection
Injecting the processed fat into the targeted areas using fine needles
Post-procedure care instructions provided to the patient

Preparation for the Procedure

Patients should follow these preparation steps before the procedure:

Avoid blood thinners and certain medications as advised by the physician
Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet leading up to the procedure
Arrange for transportation to and from the appointment
Discuss any allergies or medical conditions with the healthcare provider

Recovery and Aftercare

Patients can expect the following during recovery:

Initial swelling and bruising at the injection site, which should subside within a few days
Avoiding strenuous activities for at least a week
Following specific wound care instructions to prevent infection
Possible use of pain relief medications as prescribed
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Possible Complications

While generally safe, this procedure carries some risks, including:

Infection at the injection or donor site
Uneven results or asymmetry
Fat necrosis or lump formation
Allergic reactions to anesthesia
Scarring at the donor site

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Post-Procedure Follow-Up

Follow-up care is essential for optimal results:

Initial follow-up within a week to assess healing
Subsequent visits as needed to evaluate results and address concerns
Long-term follow-up may be recommended to monitor for any late complications

Alternative Treatments

Patients may consider these alternative treatments:

Dermal fillers for temporary volume enhancement
Botox for wrinkle reduction
Surgical facelifts for more significant changes
Skin rejuvenation treatments like laser therapy

Home Care Tips

To aid recovery, patients should consider these home care tips:

Keep the injection site clean and dry
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
Avoid sun exposure on treated areas
Follow all post-operative instructions from the healthcare provider

Patient Education & Prevention

To prevent complications and recurrence, patients should be aware of:

Understanding the importance of follow-up care
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support skin health
Recognizing signs of complications early and seeking help
Discussing realistic expectations with the healthcare provider

Billing and Coding Information

CPT Code: 15787

Category: Surgical Procedures

Common Modifiers:

50 - Bilateral procedure
RT - Right side
LT - Left side

Average Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of this procedure can vary widely:

Average cost ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the extent of the procedure
Insurance coverage may vary; typically not covered for cosmetic purposes
Patients should check with their insurance provider for specific coverage details