Sebaceous Prominence Laser Treatment

A sebaceous prominence is a white or yellowish skin bump that can appear on any part of your body, but they are common on the face, on and inside the mouth, on the eyelids, on the penis in men and the labia in women. There may be just one, or they may occur in groups.

Causes

• A sebaceous prominence (also called sebaceous hyperplasia) happens when a sebaceous (oil-making) gland does not have an outlet into a hair follicle and the skin oil collects, raising a bump. The exact cause is unknown, but may have to do with a decrease in hormones, as they appear more often in older people. They may also be hereditary.

Significance

• Sebaceous prominences are harmless and not contagious, but may become unsightly. They should, however, be evaluated by a physician to be sure they are not something more problematic.

Treatment

• Laser treatment is the fastest way to get rid of sebaceous prominences. Lasers divide into two basic groups: ablative (such as the CO2 laser) and fractionated (such as the Fraxel). Ablative laser treatment burns away the upper layers of the skin, is more traumatic and recovery takes longer, with a greater chance of scarring. Fractionated laser treatment targets small areas that heal more quickly because the undamaged skin around them helps in the healing process. Costs of laser treatment will vary, depending on whether it is done in a physician's office, hospital or surgery center.