CPT® Code 15773

Grafting of autologous fat harvested by liposuction technique to face, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, and/or feet; 25 cc or less injectate

Autologous fat grafting, commonly referred to as fat transfer, is a surgical procedure that involves the harvesting of adipose tissue from one area of the patient's body and its subsequent injection into another area to restore volume or improve contour. This technique is utilized for both reconstructive and aesthetic purposes, addressing issues such as volume loss or deformities that may arise from various causes, including disease, trauma, tumor removal, congenital defects, and the natural aging process. The procedure begins with the collection of fat through liposuction, which is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions to access the fat deposits. The harvested fat is then processed to prepare it for injection. During the injection phase, small cannulas are used to deliver the fat into the targeted areas, such as the face, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, and feet. The injection technique is critical, as the fat is distributed in small amounts at different depths to minimize pressure and ensure the survival of the transplanted adipocytes. The specific code for this procedure, CPT® Code 15773, is applicable when 25 cc or less of the injectate is used. For larger volumes, additional coding is required, as indicated by CPT® Code 15774, which accounts for each additional 25 cc or part thereof.