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Official Description

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

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 11954 refers to the procedure involving the subcutaneous injection of filling material, specifically when the volume exceeds 10.0 cc. This procedure is commonly performed by physicians to enhance the appearance of the skin by addressing various dermatological concerns. The filling material used in this procedure is often collagen, a protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness. The primary applications of this injection include the treatment of acne scars and facial wrinkles, which are common aesthetic issues that can affect an individual's appearance and self-esteem. By injecting the filling material beneath the skin, the physician aims to restore volume, smooth out irregularities, and improve the overall texture of the skin. It is important to note that there are specific codes for different volumes of injection, with CPT® Code 11950 designated for injections of 1 cc or less, CPT® Code 11951 for injections ranging from 1.1 to 5.0 cc, and CPT® Code 11952 for injections between 5.1 to 10.0 cc. The use of CPT® Code 11954 is reserved for cases where the volume of filling material administered exceeds 10.0 cc, indicating a more extensive treatment approach.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 11954 is indicated for various dermatological conditions that require the restoration of volume and improvement of skin texture. The following are the primary indications for this procedure:

  • Acne Scars The injection of filling material is often utilized to diminish the appearance of acne scars, which can create uneven skin texture and affect an individual's confidence.
  • Facial Wrinkles This procedure is also indicated for the treatment of facial wrinkles, helping to smooth out lines and creases that develop with aging or sun exposure.
  • Dermatological Defects Other dermatological defects that may benefit from subcutaneous filling material injections include volume loss due to aging, congenital defects, or other skin irregularities.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 11954 involves several key steps to ensure the effective and safe administration of the filling material. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Preparation The physician begins by assessing the patient's skin condition and determining the appropriate areas for injection. The skin is then cleansed to minimize the risk of infection, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to enhance patient comfort during the procedure.
  • Injection Technique Using a sterile syringe, the physician carefully injects the filling material subcutaneously into the predetermined areas. The injection technique may vary depending on the specific areas being treated and the desired outcome. The physician ensures that the material is evenly distributed to achieve a smooth and natural appearance.
  • Volume Administration For CPT® Code 11954, the total volume of filling material injected exceeds 10.0 cc. The physician monitors the amount being injected to ensure it aligns with the coding requirements and the patient's treatment plan.
  • Post-Injection Assessment After the injections are completed, the physician assesses the treated areas for symmetry and overall appearance. Any necessary adjustments may be made at this time to achieve optimal results.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure associated with CPT® Code 11954, patients may experience some swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection sites, which are typically temporary and resolve within a few days. The physician may provide specific post-procedure care instructions, including recommendations for avoiding strenuous activities, sun exposure, and the application of makeup for a specified period. Patients are often advised to monitor the treated areas for any unusual reactions and to follow up with the physician if they have concerns. The expected recovery time can vary based on individual factors, but most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

Short Descr TX CONTOUR DEFECTS >10.0 CC
Medium Descr SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION FILLING MATRL >10.0 CC
Long Descr Subcutaneous injection of filling material (eg, collagen); over 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.
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
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)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
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2013-01-01 Changed Description Changed
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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