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Billing code

R026A — Scar revision – other areas, up to 2.5 cm

Small body scar revision

Bill R026 for revision of a scar up to 2.5 cm long outside the face or neck, by any method of closure.

Watch for: Get Ministry authorization first; scar revisions outside the face or neck always need it.

Code

R026A

Description

Scar revision – other areas, up to 2.5 cm

FHO+ basket

Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).

Effective date

Apr 1, 2026

Termination date

No end date

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

Scar revision outside the face or neck, up to 2.5 cm long. Needs Ministry authorization.

What it covers

R026 is revision of a scar, up to 2.5 cm, in an area other than the face or neck, by any method of closure (M23).

Scar revision codes cover any method of closure and are listed by length and site: face or neck R021 (up to 2.5 cm), R022 (2.6–5 cm), R023 (5.1–10 cm), R017 (over 10 cm); other areas R026, R027, R028, R029 (M23).

Billing rules

• Authorization is required for all scar revisions outside the face or neck (M23, AD2).
• Insured when the scar interferes with function or is significantly symptomatic (for example pain or ulceration) (AD2).
• A scar without significant symptoms is insured only as part of a pre-planned post-traumatic (including post-surgical) staged process, with Ministry notification as part of the planning; other revisions are not insured (AD2).
• Don't claim scar revision when excising the scar is just the way into the site of the main operation (AD2).
• Age premiums apply for patients under 16, from 10% to 30% by age (GP64).

Related codes: R027, R028, R029, R021, R022

Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Integumentary System Surgical Procedures, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, page M23; Appendix D, page AD2.

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