Dr Nathan Schaefer
Specialist Skin Cancer Plastic Surgeon in Brisbane

Nathan grew up on the Gold Coast where he completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science at Griffith University. He was awarded the Exercise Science Medal for graduating at the top of his class.

Nathan went on to study a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Griffith University, where he was awarded the University Medal for graduating with First Class Honours. He also received the Griffith Award for Academic Excellence during each of his seven years of study at Griffith University.

Throughout his career, Nathan has published over thirty research papers and has presented his research both domestically and internationally.

Nathan has always been passionate about skin cancer. During his surgical training, Nathan and eleven of his friends formed the charity ‘Million Metres for Melanoma’ to improve the lives of those diagnosed with melanoma. Since then, they have broken two Guinness World Records and raised over half a million dollars for melanoma research.

Nathan operates on patients from all over Australia, so can conduct your surgical consultation in person or via telehealth. Dr Schaefer personally conducts over 1500 skin cancer removal procedures each year, but also works alongside several Brisbane dermatologists to provide reconstruction following Mohs micrographic surgery. Nathan is a member of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Removal:

BCC is the most common form of skin cancer (accounting for around 70% of all non-melanoma skin cancers [1]). It often appears as a pearly bump or non-healing sore (and tends to grow very slowly). Whilst BCCs rarely spread to other parts of the body [1], early removal is recommended in order to prevent it from enlarging and causing local tissue damage. Learn more about BCC surgery.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Removal:

SCC is the second most common skin cancer (roughly 30% of cases [1]). It often looks like a scaly red patch or a crusty lump and can grow faster than a BCC. If left untreated, SCC can invade deeper tissues or even spread to lymph nodes, occasionally becoming life-threatening [2]. Prompt treatment is important to avoid complications. Read more about SCC skin cancer removal procedures.

Melanoma Removal:

Whilst less common, melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, typically appearing as a new or changing mole (often with irregular shape or colour). If not caught early, melonomas can spread (metastasise) quickly to other parts of the body [3]. Early surgical excision with clear margins offers the best chance of cure. Learn more about Melanoma removal surgery

Other Skin Cancers:

Dr Schaefer is also experienced in treating less common skin cancers such as Merkel cell carcinoma (a rare but aggressive skin cancer) and other unusual tumours of the skin. These are managed with a similarly thorough surgical approach to ensure complete removal.

Benign Lesions (Moles and Lipoma Removal)

Not all lumps or spots on the skin are cancerous. Many patients present with benign growths such as moles or lipomas. Moles are clusters of pigmented cells that are usually harmless but may need removal if they change in appearance, are repeatedly irritated, or cause cosmetic concern. Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps under the skin that are non-cancerous but can sometimes grow large or uncomfortable. In both cases, Dr Schaefer can safely remove moles and lipomas, often with a straightforward procedure, to provide peace of mind and improve comfort or appearance. Learn more about Lipoma removal procedures.

Intraepidermal Carcinoma (IEC) Removal

Intraepidermal carcinoma, also known as Bowen’s disease, is a very common precancerous skin condition. It appears as a red, scaly patch that can resemble eczema or psoriasis, but unlike those conditions, it will not resolve on its own. Although IECs grow slowly, they carry a risk of developing into invasive squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. Dr Schaefer regularly treats IECs, offering surgical removal and tailored management to prevent progression while achieving the best cosmetic outcome possible.

[1] https://www.cancer.org.au/
[2] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au
[3] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/

Dr Schaefer performs skin cancer removal procedures at the Brisbane Private Hospital, or his rooms - both located in Spring Hill near the Brisbane CBD.

Surgical removal of skin cancer involves two vital steps: excision of the cancer and reconstruction of the wound.

Dr Schaefer will first surgically remove the skin cancer along with an appropriate margin of healthy skin around it (an approach that helps ensure all cancer cells are removed). The excised tissue is then sent to a pathologist to confirm that the margins are clear of cancer. Once the cancer is fully excised, Dr Schaefer performs surgical reconstruction with the goal of restoring the best possible appearance and function of the affected area, whilst minimising visible scarring.

Common types of reconstructive skin cancer removal surgical procedures performed by Dr Schaefer in Brisbane include:

Direct Closure
For smaller lesions, the wound edges can often be stitched together in a straight line. By aligning the incision with the skin’s natural creases, scars usually heal flat and blend in well over time.

Skin Grafting
When a surgical site is too large to close directly, a skin graft may be used. This involves taking a piece of healthy skin from another area of the body and placing it over the wound. Initially, the grafted skin relies on the wound bed for nutrients, but within days it develops its own blood supply and gradually settles into place. Over weeks to months, the graft softens, flattens, and starts to look more like surrounding skin. Dr Schaefer carefully selects a donor site that closely matches the colour and thickness of the skin being reconstructed to achieve the best possible cosmetic result.

Local Flap Repair Surgery
In many cases, the best reconstruction comes from using nearby skin and tissue. A local flap involves lifting a section of skin while leaving it attached at one end so it keeps its blood supply. This flap is then rotated or moved into the surgical site, often providing a close match in colour, thickness, and texture. Because the tissue stays connected during this procedure, flaps tend to offer excellent cosmetic and functional results.

Mohs Surgery Collaboration
In more complex cases, Dr Schaefer works alongside some of Brisbane’s best dermatologists who perform Mohs micrographic surgery. This highly specialised technique removes skin cancer layer by layer while checking the tissue under a microscope to ensure complete clearance. Once the margins are confirmed to be cancer-free, Dr Schaefer performs the reconstruction. This collaborative approach is not necessary for every patient, but Dr Schaefer will let you know if he believes it’s the most suitable option for your case.

Scar Revision Surgery
While every surgical procedure leaves a scar, some scars can heal in a way that is raised, thickened, or more noticeable than expected. Scar revision aims to improve the appearance of these scars and, in some cases, restore movement or function if the scar is restricting the skin. Techniques may include carefully re-excising the scar and re-closing it in line with natural skin creases, using a local flap to reposition tissue, or employing grafting methods if needed. The goal is not to remove the scar entirely, but to make it less visible and help it blend more naturally with the surrounding skin.