Surgical management of facial congenital melanocytic nevi: Experiences and outcomes at an academic center

Background Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), benign pigmented birthmarks caused by the mutation of melanocytic cells during embryofetal development, can cause aesthetic problem when it is located on the face. Surgical managements of facial CMN are required by both pediatric patients and their parents. Surgical management, including excision or staged excision, skin grafting, dermabrasion, tissue expansion or multiple re-expansion combined with flaps transplantation, have been reported previously. However, a systematical report about facial CMN management is still scarce. Objective Herein, we have reviewed our serious of patients with facial CMN, noting their size, location, and histological examination, summarizing the surgical relation behind reconstructive and cosmetic treatment, and proposing a newly classification for facial CMN among pediatric patients, hoping to share a useful surgical algorithm for these lesions on this specific part. Conclusion Proper surgical strategy should be made based on the size and location of the nevi and the adjacent relationship between the location and relaxed skin tension lines and aesthetic units. Postoperative ant-scar treatment improves aesthetic outcomes. With our experience and surgical algorithm about facial CMN surgery, a favorable outcome can be achieved.