Summary & Overview
CPT 67830: Removal of Deviated or Abnormal Eyelashes (Trichiasis)
CPT code 67830 represents an oculoplastic procedure for removal of deviated or abnormal eyelashes (trichiasis) performed by incision of the eyelid margin to extract offending lashes. Nationally, this code matters because it documents a common minor surgical intervention that prevents ongoing ocular irritation, corneal injury, and recurrent eye care visits. Accurate coding supports appropriate clinical documentation and reimbursement for ophthalmology practices and ambulatory surgical centers.
Key payers addressed in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for CPT code 67830, an outline of typical sites of service and service type, and guidance on where to look for payer-specific coverage and billing nuances. The publication also summarizes common modifiers and related billing considerations where available and highlights areas for documentation attention to support medical necessity.
This summary is intended for a national audience of coding professionals, billing managers, and ophthalmology clinicians seeking a focused reference on the clinical intent, service setting, and payer landscape for CPT code 67830. Data not available in the input is noted where relevant.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 67830 describes the surgical removal of deviated or abnormal eyelashes (trichiasis) by incision of the eyelid margin to extract offending lashes that cause ocular irritation. This procedure addresses lashes that rub on the cornea or conjunctiva, relieving discomfort and reducing the risk of corneal abrasion or recurrent inflammation.
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Service type: Minor oculoplastic surgical removal of misdirected eyelashes (trichiasis).
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Typical site of service: Outpatient ophthalmology clinic, ambulatory surgical center, or other minor procedure room where local anesthesia and minor eyelid surgery are performed.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 58-year-old female presents to the ophthalmology clinic with months of intermittent eye irritation, tearing, foreign body sensation, and recurrent corneal epithelial defects localized to the lower eyelid margin. On slit-lamp examination the provider identifies multiple misdirected eyelashes contacting the cornea consistent with trichiasis. Conservative measures including epilation and topical lubricants provided only transient relief. The provider schedules an outpatient surgical procedure to remove the offending lashes by making a small lid margin incision and extracting or curetting the lash follicles under local anesthesia.
Typical workflow: patient check-in and consent in an ambulatory ophthalmology clinic or outpatient surgery center; topical and local infiltration anesthesia; sterile preparation of the eyelid; eyelid margin incision and removal of lashes/follicles (can include curettage, cryotherapy, or direct extraction); hemostasis and dressing as needed; brief post-procedure observation and discharge with topical antibiotic and lubricant instructions and follow-up to monitor healing and recurrence.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When reporting only the physician’s professional service separate from technical facility resources. |