What is the appropriate code(s) for the excision of two 1-cm benign skin lesions of the face?

The appropriate coding for the excision of two 1-cm benign skin lesions of the face involves using CPT codes specifically designated for the excision of benign skin lesions. The code 11441 applies to the excision of a benign skin lesion measuring greater than 1 cm but less than 2 cm on the face, scalp, ears, and neck. Since in this scenario there are two lesions, both of which measure 1 cm, the coding strategy is to report the excision of each lesion as a separate instance.

The use of the modifier -59 indicates that these two procedures are distinct and separately identifiable, which is appropriate when lesions are excised in separate locations or in a manner that does not bundle them into a single procedure for billing purposes. By using 11441 for each lesion and the -59 modifier, the coding accurately reflects the work done for both lesions excised.

The other options listed do not apply to this scenario as they reference codes for different types of procedures or lesions. For instance, codes such as 11730 and 11732 relate to nail procedures, while codes like 36860 pertain to vascular access procedures, and 39540 deals with cardiac surgery. None of these codes are suitable for benign skin