This procedure is considered for infants having this congenital condition usually on scalp or face.
Sebaceous naevus, also referred to as naevus sebaceus of Jadassohn, is a congenital skin condition most often identified at birth or in early childhood. Its appearance may change gradually, particularly during puberty, which is why many individuals across Newcastle, Charlestown, Lake Macquarie and the wider Hunter region seek specialist review. At Dr Mistry Specialist Plastic Surgeon, located at the Charlestown Healthcare Hub, Dr Yezdi Mistry, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, provides detailed assessment and management for those considering sebaceous naevus removal.
Sebaceous naevus removal is a reconstructive and medically guided procedure. The primary aim is to remove the abnormal skin patch, support accurate microscopic evaluation and, in selected cases, reduce the likelihood of secondary tumour development within the lesion. While the procedure may also influence the way the area looks or behaves after healing, the focus remains on evidence based, patient centred care. Dr Mistry’s approach involves thoughtful planning, clear communication and careful consideration of each person’s individual circumstances.
A sebaceous naevus is a congenital hamartoma, meaning it consists of an overgrowth of normal skin structures that are arranged in an atypical pattern. These structures may include the epidermis, sebaceous glands and components of the follicular units. Although the elements are normal, their arrangement results in a distinct patch of skin that behaves differently from surrounding tissue.
Sebaceous naevi are usually present at birth as smooth or slightly raised areas that may appear yellowish or similar to normal skin tone. When located on the scalp, the lesion typically appears as a persistent hairless patch. During adolescence, hormonal changes stimulate sebaceous gland activity, often causing the lesion to thicken or develop a more textured surface. These changes are common and do not necessarily indicate a concerning development, although new or unusual changes should always be reviewed.
While most sebaceous naevi remain benign, secondary growths can develop within them later in life. These growths may be benign or, less commonly, malignant. Because these changes usually occur in adulthood, long-term monitoring and timely assessment are advised.
People may consider sebaceous naevus removal for a range of reasons. Some seek advice because the lesion lies in a highly visible location such as the scalp, forehead, face or neck. Scalp lesions may attract attention when hair is short or thinning, or when hairstyles change over time.
Others seek assessment after noticing changes in the lesion. Thickening, nodularity, crusting or areas that do not heal as expected may prompt medical review. These features do not necessarily indicate cancer but do require careful assessment by a qualified specialist.
Some individuals experience irritation or discomfort due to friction from grooming tools, helmets, hats or clothing. Recurrent trauma can be bothersome over many years, and removal may reduce these day to day issues.
Larger sebaceous naevi, or those associated with eye, neurological or skeletal findings, may form part of a broader condition. These situations can require coordinated care with multiple specialists and may involve staged surgical planning.
The benefits of sebaceous naevus removal vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Excision removes the abnormal tissue and allows for detailed microscopic examination by a specialist pathologist. This ensures an accurate diagnosis and identifies any benign or malignant secondary growths that may be present.
Some individuals choose removal to reduce the chance of tumour development within that area in the future. Although the overall risk is low, many patients prefer excision once they understand the clinical considerations.
If the lesion causes itching, irritation or sensitivity, surgical removal may reduce or eliminate these symptoms after healing. Removal can also lessen the impact of practical challenges such as catching the lesion during hair grooming or contact with clothing.
Surgery replaces the sebaceous naevus with a scar. Scar appearance varies from person to person, and Dr Mistry provides clear guidance on expected outcomes and scar care to support long-term healing.
Before-and-after photographs can help some patients understand how sebaceous naevus removal may be approached. At Dr Mistry Specialist Plastic Surgeon, the use of images is guided by AHPRA advertising standards, and photographs are shown only with proper consent. These images are intended to support education rather than create expectations.
In some cases, Dr Mistry may show de-identified examples during consultation to illustrate how incisions are planned or how scars may settle. Every patient heals differently, and outcomes vary widely based on lesion size, anatomy and reconstruction technique.
A consultation with Dr Yezdi Mistry provides an opportunity for a detailed assessment and discussion of treatment options. The consultation takes place at the Charlestown Healthcare Hub in a setting that allows time for questions and a clear explanation of the recommended approach.
The consultation begins with a thorough medical history, including when the lesion first appeared, whether it has changed, whether it has caused symptoms and whether there is any relevant family or personal history of skin concerns. General health, medications and previous surgeries are also reviewed.
A detailed physical examination follows. Dr Mistry assesses the lesion’s boundaries, texture and associated features. Dermatoscopy may be used to examine surface patterns. For scalp lesions, the pattern of hair growth and the contour of the scalp are considered carefully to guide incision planning.
If needed, a biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis before planning further treatment. This is particularly useful if the lesion shows atypical features.
Management options are then discussed. Observation may be suitable for some individuals, especially younger patients with stable lesions. Others may be advised to consider excision sooner. Dr Mistry ensures that patients understand the benefits, limitations and risks so they can make an informed decision.
Sebaceous naevus removal is performed in accredited hospital or day-surgery facilities in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region. The approach is tailored to the lesion and individual anatomy.
Anaesthesia varies depending on the size and complexity of the lesion. Small lesions in adults can often be removed under local anaesthesia, sometimes with sedation. Larger or more complex lesions, particularly in children, usually require general anaesthesia.
Before surgery, Dr Mistry marks the lesion and plans the incisions with attention to natural lines and, for scalp lesions, hair direction. This planning step supports both function and scar maturation.
During surgery, the lesion is excised with careful technique. Reconstruction may involve direct closure, local flap movement or, in some cases, a skin graft. The method depends on the defect’s size and location.
All excised tissue is sent to a specialist pathologist for microscopic evaluation. Most patients return home the same day after routine monitoring in recovery.
Recovery times vary depending on the lesion and reconstruction method. After surgery, the wound is dressed, and mild discomfort or swelling may occur. These symptoms usually improve gradually with rest and prescribed medication.
For one to two weeks, activities are generally limited to light daily tasks. Strenuous exercise, bending and activities that place tension on the wound are avoided. Follow-up appointments are held at the Charlestown practice to review healing and discuss pathology results.
Return to work or school depends on the individual’s activities and the extent of the surgery. Scar maturation continues for many months. Sun protection, silicone products and gentle scar care techniques may be recommended.
All surgical procedures involve risks. Potential complications include bleeding, infection, delayed healing and wound separation. Scarring is expected, and scars may become wider or raised depending on individual healing patterns.
Altered sensation may occur near the incision and can improve gradually over time. Hair may not grow through a scalp scar, and a small surrounding area of hair loss may occur.
Unexpected pathology findings may be identified in some cases, requiring further review or treatment. Recurrence can occur if a portion of the naevus remains.
Costs vary because each case is unique. Factors include lesion size, location, reconstruction method, anaesthesia type, hospital and anaesthetist fees and pathology analysis. After a consultation, patients receive an individualised cost estimate. Further general information is available through the practice’s Fees and Costs page.
Medicare and private health insurance may contribute to costs when sebaceous naevus removal is medically required. Eligibility depends on clinical documentation, Medicare criteria and the individual’s level of health cover. Patients are encouraged to contact their health fund directly to confirm entitlements.
Dr Yezdi Mistry, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon (BHB, MBChB, FRACS Plastic Surgery, MED0001861566), has extensive experience in plastic surgery, including reconstructive procedures for congenital and acquired skin lesions. He relocated to Newcastle in 2015 and established Dr Mistry Specialist Plastic Surgeon at the Charlestown Healthcare Hub in 2017.
He is a Visiting Medical Officer in plastic and hand surgery at John Hunter Hospital and actively participates in ongoing professional development, including advanced international training. He is a member of RACS, ASPS, ASAPS, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ISAPS and the AMA.
Patients receive detailed assessment, clear information and comprehensive follow-up care, with a focus on safety, anatomical understanding and evidence based decision making.
Individuals and families across Newcastle, Charlestown, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter region who would like personalised guidance about sebaceous naevus assessment or removal are welcome to arrange a consultation with Dr Yezdi Mistry, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, at Dr Mistry Specialist Plastic Surgeon. During your consultation, Dr Mistry will examine the lesion, discuss any changes, outline appropriate treatment options and develop a management plan that reflects your individual needs.
The practice is located at Charlestown Healthcare Hub, Suite 312, Level 3, 99 Pacific Highway, Charlestown NSW 2290. To organise an appointment or request further information, please contact (02) 4062 7888 or email admin@drmistry.com.au. The clinic welcomes enquiries from patients throughout Newcastle, Charlestown, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter region seeking experienced care for sebaceous naevi.
A sebaceous naevus is a benign congenital lesion. It is not a skin cancer, although secondary growths can occur over time. These changes are usually seen in adulthood, which is why long-term review is encouraged.
Not all sebaceous naevi require surgery. Many stable lesions can be monitored. Removal is considered when there are changes, symptoms or practical difficulties, or when clinical features indicate that excision is appropriate.
Surgery may be considered in childhood, adolescence or adulthood depending on the lesion’s features, changes over time and patient or family preference. Timing is guided by clinical assessment.
All excisions result in a scar. Scar appearance varies with skin type, incision location and individual healing. Scars often soften and fade over time, although some may remain more noticeable.
Recovery varies. Many patients resume light daily activities within a short period, while more extensive procedures may require more time. Scar maturation continues for several months.
Recurrence is uncommon if the entire lesion is removed. If a small portion remains, a new patch of abnormal skin may appear. Further assessment can be arranged if this occurs.
Any rapid growth, new lumps, persistent crusting, ulceration, bleeding or colour change should be reviewed promptly. These features do not always indicate malignancy but require timely assessment.
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Please Note: Information provided on Dr Mistry’s website is provided as a basic guide, it does not constitute a diagnosis and should not be taken as medical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
“I care because it’s my job as a surgeon, as a plastic surgeon, to do the appropriate thing and to give you a good outcome. I want to leave knowing that I can tell a patient, hand on heart, that I did the very best I could and that I looked after them, so when I see them post op later that day or the next morning, that they feel they were in good hands.”
– Dr Yezdi Mistry
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