What options do you provide for smoothing out/filling in a crater in the bone of my skull after removal of a facial cyst? (photo

For anyone who has a dent from a cyst removal a week ago, the best first treatment is to let it heal. Since you have had this for 15 years, the shape is unlikely to change. Facial filler like any of the HA's (Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane) can help, as can Radiesse injected deeply. All of these are off label uses and all will likely require periodic reinfections to maintain the results.There are no FDA approved permanent fillers. Many substances that have been used as permanent fillers look good initially, often end up becoming disfiguring after many years. I include silicone and PMMA in this group.Fat grafting can be helpful, but requires an experienced hand. The fat injected will change volume with weight loss or gain, so it is best if you are at a weight you plan to maintain. I have used bone cement for larger skull defects with good results, but this is a much more complicated process than an injection.It is not possible to know what to advise without seeing you in-person. Schedule a consultation with an experienced, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area for specific recommendations.

This can be treated with fillers, I typically use a permanent one like bellafill or silicone to get a long term result although HA fillers like voluma or lyft will do well but will need to be re-injected when they wear off.  Subcision will also help and can be done at the same time.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Hi and thanks for your question. From your photo it appears you might benefit from the use of a facial filler or even a fat injection. Make sure you see a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to give you the best advice. Good luck.Richard Chaffoo, MD, FACS, FICSTriple Board Certified Plastic Surgeon