Skin Cancer London — Consultant Dermatologist‑Led Checks, Dermoscopy & Surgery

Early, accurate diagnosis is the single most important step in managing skin cancer well. At Skinhorizon Clinic in Maida Vale (Central London), your assessment is led by a consultant dermatologist from the outset. We perform meticulous dermatoscopy for all suspicious moles and lesions, arrange same‑day skin biopsy when indicated, and deliver treatment options in‑clinic — including surgical excision, complex closures and skin grafts performed by Dr Ghazavi, as well as photodynamic therapy (PDT) where appropriate. No external referral steps: your care pathway is designed and delivered here.

Why Consultant‑Led Dermoscopy Matters

Dermoscopy is a specialist, non‑invasive examination of the skin that reveals diagnostic patterns invisible to the naked eye. When performed by an experienced consultant dermatologist, it can drastically improve the accuracy of distinguishing benign lesions from malignancy, fine‑tune the urgency of biopsy, and guide the exact margin and direction of surgery. At your appointment, Dr Ghazavi systematically examines the lesion(s) of concern and, with your consent, any additional moles that merit expert review.

What Happens at Your Appointment?

We begin with your history: duration of the lesion, evolution, symptoms (bleeding, crusting, itch), sun exposure, previous skin cancers, and family history. We then perform consultant‑led dermatoscopy. If a biopsy is indicated, we typically perform it the same day under local anaesthetic. The sample is sent for histopathology. Once we have the result, we discuss definitive treatment — surgical excision (including complex layered closures and skin grafts where needed) or PDT for suitable superficial lesions — and create your follow‑up plan.

Which Cancers Do We Commonly See?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): the most frequent skin cancer. It grows locally and rarely spreads, but can become destructive if neglected — especially on the nose, eyelids and ears. Dermoscopic features and site guide whether we propose surgery or PDT (for superficial, well‑selected lesions).

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): may arise de novo or from actinic keratoses. Invasive SCC typically requires surgical excision with appropriate margins; Bowen’s disease (SCC in situ) may be treated with PDT where suitable.

Melanoma: an evolving mole or new pigmented lesion that doesn’t look like your others (“ugly duckling”) deserves urgent dermoscopy. Early excision provides the best outcomes. We also treat melanoma in situ and stage I melanoma with surgical excision and staging decisions per result.

Pre‑cancers: Actinic keratoses and Bowen’s disease can be managed with cryotherapy, topical agents, or PDT depending on site and number.

Surgery — Performed by Dr Ghazavi

When surgery is the best option, it is performed by Dr Ghazavi under local anaesthetic in our procedure room. We discuss the goals clearly: complete removal (clear histological margins) and the most elegant reconstruction practical for the site. On cosmetically sensitive areas, we often use meticulous layered closure or skin grafts to restore contour and preserve function.

• Excision & margins: Margins depend on tumour type, size and histology. We plan a tailored ellipse or disc excision to follow relaxed skin lines and minimise tension.
• Complex repairs: On thicker skin or tension‑prone sites, layered closure distributes forces for better healing. Where tissue is insufficient, we consider advancement/rotation techniques.
• Skin grafts: For certain nose, ear, eyelid or scalp defects, a full‑thickness graft can provide an excellent contour and colour match.
• Aftercare: You receive written instructions, dressing changes, and review for suture removal and histology discussion.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) — From £800

PDT uses a photosensitising cream and specialised light to selectively target cancerous or precancerous cells. It is particularly useful for superficial BCC and Bowen’s disease in well‑chosen locations, and for field treatment where multiple lesions exist. We outline the likely clearance rates, number of sessions, and recovery (photosensitivity precautions) before you decide.

• Candidates: Superficial BCC, SCC in situ (Bowen’s), and some extensive actinic keratoses.
• Recovery: Expect redness/crusting in treated areas with photosensitivity precautions for a few days.
• Fees: PDT starts at £800; your plan depends on area and number of sessions.

Actinic Damage & Pre‑Cancer Management

Sun‑exposed areas such as the scalp, face, and forearms often develop fields of sun damage with scattered actinic keratoses. We discuss the pros and cons of targeted lesion treatment (cryotherapy) versus field treatments like PDT. Skincare, photoprotection, clothing and behaviour adjustments are part of prevention — especially if you’ve already had a BCC or SCC.

Self‑Checks: The ABCDE & When to Come In

We encourage regular self‑checks and prompt assessment if a mole changes or a new lesion appears. The ABCDE guide for moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter >6 mm (or growing), Evolving. Also look for non‑healing pink, pearly, scaly or crusted patches that bleed easily — common with BCC/SCC. If in doubt, book a mole check.

Scars, Cosmesis & Follow‑Up

Every excision leaves a scar, but careful planning and technique minimise its visual impact. We align incisions with relaxed skin tension lines, use layered suturing, and provide scar care instructions (silicone, massage, sun avoidance) to improve outcomes. Follow‑up includes results discussion and surveillance planning. If you’ve had a skin cancer before, we agree a personalised schedule of checks. We also advise on sun behaviour and skincare to lower future risk.

Children, Teens & Adults

While most skin cancers occur in adults, children and teens may present with atypical moles or rare lesions. We provide age‑appropriate assessments and, when needed, plan procedures with additional comfort measures. For adults balancing work or caregiving, we offer straightforward timelines and concise aftercare so you can plan around your procedure.

Costs & What’s Included

Consultation: £300 — includes consultant‑performed dermoscopy and a written plan.
Biopsy: Cost depends on site and complexity; we’ll confirm before proceeding.
Surgery: Excision, complex layered closure or skin graft pricing after assessment; a clear quote is provided in advance.
PDT: From £800 (number of sessions and area dependent). For broader guidance, see our Precancerous & Cancerous Lesions treatment pathway.

Related Pages & Conditions

Learn more about skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, Bowen’s disease, and actinic keratosis. For mole checks, visit ABCDE Mole Check. For surgical information, see mole removal and our wider treatment pathway. Browse all skin conditions we treat.