Home Treatments Skin Treatments Skin Cancer Treatment London

Skin Cancer Treatment London

At a glance:

Skin Cancer Treatment

BOOK A CONSULTATION NOW

Symptoms:

new or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, redness, swelling, or bleeding, scaly patches

Diagnosis:

performed through dermoscopy, biopsy, and histopathological analysis to identify the type and stage of the cancer

Treatment:

surgical excision for Histopathology, Mohs surgery, Radiation therapy, topical medications

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

What is skin cancer and what causes it?

Skin cancer refers to when abnormal skin cells undergo uncontrolled cell growth, often due to long-term sun exposure or ultraviolet radiation. It predominantly appears in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the eyelids and around the eyes, face, head, neck, and ears.

There are two main categories of skin cancer: non-melanoma and melanoma. Non-melanoma skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are the most common types. Melanoma is a more aggressive and potentially deadly form of skin cancer. It is less common than non-melanoma skin cancers but is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.

Symptoms of skin cancer can vary, but they may include the development of new growths, lesions, or moles, changes in the colour or shape of existing moles, or the presence of raised or irregular sores that do not heal. Certain risk factors, such as fair skin, a history of sunburns, a genetic predisposition to skin cancer, or a weakened immune system, can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

BOOK A CONSULTATION VIEW PRICES

Do I need Skin Cancer Treatment?

If you have noticed new growths, lesions or moles on your skin: eyelids, face, limbs or trunk, or experience changes in the colour or shape of existing lesions or moles, or have sores that do not heal, you should consider seeking advice from a dermatologist or ophthalmic plastic surgeon if on the eyelids or around the eyes. Clinica London’s team of experienced dermatologists and ophthalmic plastic surgeons (oculoplastic surgeons) specialise in providing the highest quality skin cancer clinical assessment and treatment in London. As well as skilled clinical examination we employ advanced diagnostic techniques, such as dermoscopy, biopsy, and histopathological examination, Mohs´ micrographic surgery, to precisely identify and evaluate the type and stage of skin cancer.

Undergoing skin cancer diagnosis treatment can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. That’s why at Clinica London, we prioritise not only the physical aspects of treatment but also your psychological well-being.

Different Types of Skin Cancer

Different kinds of skin cancer vary in their traits and behaviour, requiring treatments tailored specifically to each patient’s condition.

Non-melanoma Skin Cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer includes the two most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) appears as a pink or pearly bump on the skin, often with visible blood vessels. It usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Symptoms of BCC may include sores that don’t heal, and redness or bleeding. Occur in sun-exposed areas such as the eyelids, face, neck, chest, back and lower legs.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) appears as a rough, scaly bump or a red, crusted patch on the skin. SCC can grow deeper into the skin and has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body compared to BCC. Symptoms can include the development of scaly patches, new or changing moles, and sores that don’t heal. Occur in sun exposed areas and often preceded by a non-cancerous or pre-cancerous lesion. Less common than BCC, but can be more aggressive.

waiting room sign at clinica london office

Sebaceous Cell Carcinoma

Sebaceous cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that originates in the sebaceous glands. It is a relatively rare carcinoma, occurring in areas of the body where sebaceous glands are present, such as the eyelids, face, and scalp.

Common signs of sebaceous cell carcinoma may include a painless, slow-growing lump or nodule on the affected areas, thickening of the eyelid or a raised area of skin, redness, swelling, or inflammation.

Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer. It develops from abnormal moles or appears as a new dark spot on the skin.

It is often characterised by an asymmetrical, irregularly-shaped mole with uneven borders. The colour of the mole may also be uneven or have different shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue. Other symptoms may also include itching, bleeding, or crusting of a mole. It most commonly occurs on the lower limbs, back, face and eyelids.

Private Skin Cancer Treatment Options

The treatment approach for skin cancer depends on various factors, including the type, size, and stage of cancer. Common treatment options include:

Excision Surgery with tissue analysis (histopathology): A surgical biopsy is performed to confirm whether the lesion is cancerous. A small piece of tissue is then sent to the laboratory for analysis and an incisional biopsy. The skin lesion is completely removed through surgical excision, which is an excisional biopsy. A “safe margin” of skin around the lesion is also excised. The excised specimen is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. In the eyelids, delicate ophthalmic plastic surgical techniques (oculoplastic surgery) are used to remove the skin cancer, reconstruct the eyelids and maintain eyelid function.
Specialised Surgical excision using Mohs´ micrographic surgery: This technique is commonly used to remove recurrent cancerous growths or to address biopsy-proven eyelid basal or squamous cell carcinoma by examining all the borders and depths of the lesion for cancerous cells through immediate histopathological analysis of tissue layers. The technique aims to minimise the removal of healthy surrounding tissue.
Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation kills cancer cells and shrinks tumours. This treatment is commonly used when skin cancer is large and requires size reduction in addition to surgical excision.
Topical Medications: Our dermatologists may prescribe topical creams or gels for treatment in certain cases of superficial skin cancers. These medications need to be applied for several weeks, following the dermatologist’s guidance.
Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze and destroy superficial cancerous cells, a technique commonly used on the scalp and limbs.
Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells.

The number of treatment sessions required depends on skin cancer type, stage, and location. Some treatments may be completed in a single session, while others may require multiple sessions over several weeks or months.

Preparing for the Procedure

Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds before your procedure, as these can affect the treatment and potentially increase the risk of complications.

It is recommended to wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment. Always ensure that you arrange transportation to and from the clinic, especially if you are undergoing a surgical procedure that may require anaesthesia.

Consult our dermatologists for personalised instructions and guidance based on your situation.

Does Treatment hurt?

The level of pain experienced during skin cancer treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the treatment. Some treatments may cause discomfort or mild pain, while others may require the use of local anaesthesia to numb the area being treated.

For surgical procedures, such as excision or Mohs’ surgery, we administrate local anaesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure. A Mohs’ surgeon and the reconstruction by a dermatology or ophthalmic surgeon do this surgery.

Other treatments, such as topical creams or photodynamic therapy, may cause temporary stinging or burning sensations at the treatment site. These sensations are usually tolerable and subside after the procedure.

Recovery & Aftercare

After undergoing skin cancer treatment, the recovery process will depend on the type and severity of the treatment. In some cases, the treatment may be a one-off procedure, while in others, follow-up and examination may be necessary.

For surgical procedures, the recovery period involves wound healing and may require regular dressing changes. Your dermatologist or ophthalmic plastic surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, including how to keep the treated area clean and protected.

In cases where radiation therapy is employed, the recovery process may involve monitoring for any potential side effects, such as skin irritation or fatigue. Our medical team will guide you on any necessary follow-up appointments to assess the treatment’s effectiveness and monitor your overall health.

Depending on the specific treatment and individual circumstances, follow-ups are recommended to ensure that the skin cancer has been successfully treated and to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Regular skin or eyelid checks are encouraged to ensure the detection of any new or suspicious growths early on.

We believe that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Our compassionate and dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, providing the necessary resources and assistance to help you navigate this journey.

Risk & Side Effects

Skin cancer treatment may have certain risks and side effects, which can vary depending on the type of treatment and individual circumstances.

Scarring: Surgical procedures to remove skin cancer lesions may result in scarring. The size and location of the lesion, as well as individual healing abilities, can affect the extent of scarring.
Changes in skin sensations: Depending on the treatment method, changes in skin sensation, such as numbness or increased sensitivity, may be temporary or permanent.
Discolouration: The treated area may experience changes in skin colour, which can range from temporary redness and bruising to permanent discolouration (rare).
Swelling: Some treatments may cause swelling and bruising in the treated area which is usually temporary and will subside over time.
Fatigue: Radiation therapy, in particular, can cause fatigue or tiredness. It is important to get enough rest and take care of your overall well-being during and after treatment.

OUR CONSULTANTS

Dr Jennifer Crawley is a Consultant Dermatologist at Clinica London. She specialises in both paediatric and adult medical and surgical dermatology.

Dr Crawley performs diagnostic biopsies and excision for skin tumours, cryotherapy for keratotic skin lesions, and injection treatments for keloid scarring. Her dedication to exceptional patient care is evident in her comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Miss Jane Olver and Miss Michelle Ting are the Consultant Ophthalmic plastic surgeons (oculoplastic surgeons) at Clinica London who carry out delicate incisional and excisional biopsies of skin cancers on the face and eyelids. They work too with the Mohs´ surgeon for certain tumours affecting the eyelids. They are both well-skilled in carrying out oculoplastic reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, periorbital area and face after the tumour is fully removed.

Their training and experience in this specific area of ophthalmic plastic surgery assures that you will maintain a cosmetically pleasing appearance with full tumour excision through beautiful ophthalmic plastic reconstruction.

Dr Jennifer Crawley

Consultant Dermatologist
Children & Adults

Miss Jane Olver

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Oculoplastic (Eyelid) & Lacrimal Specialist
Medical Director
President International Society Dacryology and Dry Eye 2024-2026

Ms Michelle Ting

Consultant Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr Rebeca Calado

Consultant Dermatologist
Children & Adults
Specialist in Dermatovenereology

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

Pricing

Consultation type	Fee
Initial	£300-£350
Follow up	£250-£300

Our specialists see patients with private healthcare.

Skin cancer FAQS

To reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, you must be proactive in protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure. Here are some steps you can take:

Limit your time in the sun, especially during peak hours from 10 am to 4 pm.
Seek shade whenever possible.
Wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, hats with wide brims, and sunglasses.
Don’t forget to apply and reapply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, even on cloudy days.
Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps as they emit harmful UV radiation.

Regularly check your skin for any changes or new growths. If you notice anything suspicious, consult a dermatologist.

While most cases of skin cancer are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, certain inherited conditions can contribute to an increased risk. These conditions include xeroderma pigmentosum, basal cell nevus syndrome, and familial atypical mole-melanoma syndrome.

Note that even if you have a family history of skin cancer or carry genetic risk factors, it does not guarantee that you will develop the cancer.

Award Winning Clinic in London

Clinica London is a leading ophthalmology and dermatology medical clinic. It has a sense of passion for helping patients. The clinic’s consultants are highly skilled professionals who have received British, European, and international awards in their respective fields. Clinica is honest and offers transparent treatment advice in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

BOOK A CONSULTATION