You’ve just undergone Mohs surgery to remove skin cancer, and while the procedure boasts a 99% cure rate for basal cell carcinoma—the most common type—it often leaves behind tissue defects that can alter your appearance. That’s where dermal fillers come in. Think of them as a precision tool for restoring volume and smoothing out scars or depressions caused by tissue removal. For example, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers like Juvederm or Restylane are injected to plump the skin, blending treated areas with surrounding tissue. Studies show that 72% of patients report improved self-esteem after using fillers post-surgery, and treatments typically take under 30 minutes with results lasting 6–12 months.
But why choose fillers over other reconstructive options? Let’s break it down. Surgical flaps or grafts, while effective, require longer recovery times (often 2–4 weeks) and carry higher costs—averaging $3,000–$5,000 compared to $600–$1,200 per filler session. Plus, fillers offer flexibility. If you’re unhappy with the outcome, HA-based products can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, a safety net you don’t get with permanent implants. Dermatologists often recommend starting with fillers because they’re minimally invasive and allow gradual adjustments. Dr. Lisa Chen, a Mohs surgeon in New York, notes, “I’ve seen patients regain 80–90% of their pre-surgery facial symmetry using fillers within just two sessions.”
Still, some worry about safety. Are fillers safe so soon after cancer treatment? The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery confirms that fillers don’t interfere with cancer recovery when administered by a trained professional. In fact, HA fillers have a complication rate of less than 5%, mostly minor swelling or bruising. Take Sarah Thompson, a 54-year-old teacher from Florida, who shared her story in *Skin Health Journal*: “Three months after Mohs on my cheek, my dermatologist used filler to fix a dent. I felt like myself again without any downtime.”
Cost is another common concern. While insurance rarely covers fillers for cosmetic purposes, some plans *do* pay if the defect impacts function—like a nostril collapsing after nasal surgery. Out-of-pocket, a syringe of HA filler averages $650, and most patients need 1–3 syringes per area. Clinics like fillersfairy often offer payment plans, making it accessible even on a budget. Pro tip: Ask about multi-session discounts—many providers knock 10–15% off package deals.
What about long-term results? Collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra work differently, triggering your body’s natural repair process. These can last up to two years but require 2–3 sessions spaced a month apart. A 2023 study in *Dermatologic Surgery* found that 68% of patients preferred collagen stimulators for cheek restoration post-Mohs due to their subtle, gradual effects.
So, is filler worth it? If you’re weighing emotional well-being against cost, consider this: A scar revision surgery might run $2,500, whereas filler could achieve similar results for half the price—and let you return to work the same day. Plus, filler isn’t just about looks. Restoring facial contours can prevent functional issues, like food trapping in a lip depression. As one patient put it, “Filler didn’t just fix my face—it fixed how I felt in public.”
Bottom line? Dermal fillers post-Mohs aren’t a one-size-fits-all fix, but they’re a versatile, low-risk option for rebuilding confidence and function. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to tailor a plan to your needs—because healing isn’t just skin-deep.