Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Reduction of masseter muscle and bone (eg, for treatment of benign masseteric hypertrophy); extraoral approach

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Reduction of masseter muscle and bone, as described by CPT® Code 21295, refers to a surgical procedure aimed at addressing benign masseteric hypertrophy. This condition is characterized by an abnormal enlargement of the masseter muscle, which is one of the primary muscles involved in chewing, and the underlying bone at the angle of the mandible. The exact cause of this hypertrophy remains unknown, making it a rare disorder. The procedure is performed using an extraoral approach, specifically through a preauricular incision, which is located in front of the ear. This approach allows the surgeon to access the masseter muscle and the mandible effectively. During the procedure, the surgeon will perform subperiosteal dissection to detach the masseter muscle from its attachment at the inferior posterior border of the mandible. The surgical technique may involve the use of a bur or a saw to reduce the bony prominence at the mandibular angle, thereby reshaping the bone to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing contour. The masseter muscle is then resected and reduced in size before being reattached to the mandible, and the incisions are subsequently closed. This procedure is typically indicated for patients who experience functional or aesthetic concerns due to the hypertrophy of the masseter muscle and bone.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Reduction of masseter muscle and bone (CPT® Code 21295) is indicated for the treatment of benign masseteric hypertrophy. This condition may present with the following symptoms or conditions:

  • Benign Masseteric Hypertrophy - A rare disorder characterized by the abnormal enlargement of the masseter muscle and the underlying bone at the mandibular angle, leading to cosmetic concerns and potential functional issues.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the reduction of masseter muscle and bone involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Incision - The surgeon begins by making an extraoral incision in the preauricular area, which is located just in front of the ear. This approach provides optimal access to the masseter muscle and the mandible.
  • Step 2: Subperiosteal Dissection - Following the incision, the surgeon performs a subperiosteal dissection to carefully separate the masseter muscle from the underlying bone. This step is crucial for accessing the area that requires reduction.
  • Step 3: Detachment of the Masseter Muscle - The masseter muscle is then detached at its inferior posterior border, allowing for further manipulation and reduction of both the muscle and the bone.
  • Step 4: Bone Reduction - A bur is utilized to reduce the bony prominence at the mandibular angle. Alternatively, a saw may be employed to reshape the posterior border of the mandible, creating a more obtuse angle as needed.
  • Step 5: Additional Bone Contouring - If necessary, further contouring of the bone is performed using a bur, chisel, or osteotome to achieve the desired shape and contour of the mandible.
  • Step 6: Muscle Resection and Reattachment - Once the bone contour is satisfactory, the masseter muscle is resected to reduce its size. The muscle is then reattached to the mandible to restore its function.
  • Step 7: Closure of Incisions - Finally, the incisions made during the procedure are closed, completing the surgical intervention.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the reduction of masseter muscle and bone typically involves monitoring for any complications, managing pain, and ensuring proper healing of the surgical site. Patients may be advised to follow specific postoperative instructions, including dietary modifications and activity restrictions, to facilitate recovery. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess healing and the functional outcome of the procedure.

Short Descr REVISION OF JAW MUSCLE/BONE
Medium Descr REDUCTION MASSETER MUSCLE & BONE EXTRAORAL
Long Descr Reduction of masseter muscle and bone (eg, for treatment of benign masseteric hypertrophy); extraoral approach
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 142 - Partial excision bone
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"