Localized adiposity

This code describes the presence of excess fat deposits confined to specific areas of the body, rather than generalized obesity. It refers to localized accumulations of adipose tissue that are disproportionate to the patient's overall body weight.

Use this code when documentation specifies fat deposits in particular regions, such as "localized fat pad," "lipodystrophy," or "regional adiposity," without indicating a systemic obesity condition. This is often seen in cases where patients seek cosmetic procedures for body contouring.

• Differentiate from generalized obesity (e.g., 278.00, 278.01) which involves widespread excess body fat.
• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "localized" to support this code; otherwise, a more general obesity code may be appropriate.
• This code is often a secondary diagnosis when a patient presents for cosmetic or reconstructive procedures related to body contouring.