Precancerous & Skin Cancer Lesion Checks in London
Consultant‑led assessment with dermoscopy and mole mapping when helpful, and clear, evidence‑based treatment pathways — from excision surgery with histology to cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), CO₂ laser for selected pre‑cancers, and prescription topicals (e.g., 5‑fluorouracil, imiquimod) where appropriate.
Introduction
Early, accurate diagnosis is crucial. Some lesions are precancerous (e.g., actinic keratoses, Bowen’s disease), while others are cancers such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) or melanoma. We examine thoroughly, explain your diagnosis in plain language, and recommend the safest, most effective treatment for your site and skin type — with a written plan and aftercare you can follow confidently.
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What Are Precancerous & Cancerous Lesions?
Precancerous lesions show abnormal cells confined to upper skin layers. Common examples include actinic keratoses (sun‑damage rough patches) and Bowen’s disease (SCC in‑situ). Cancerous lesions include basal cell carcinoma (often pearly or ulcerated), squamous cell carcinoma (scaly, firm or tender) and melanoma (pigmented, evolving).
Treatment choice depends on lesion type, size, depth, location, your medical history and cosmetic priorities. When there’s any diagnostic doubt, we prioritise techniques that allow full histology.
Diagnosis & Assessment at Skinhorizon
- Dermoscopy: magnified, polarised examination that improves diagnostic accuracy beyond the naked eye.
- Mole mapping: for patients with many lesions or at higher risk, we use total body photography to detect change over time.
- Biopsy when indicated: shave, punch or excisional biopsy to confirm diagnosis and plan definitive treatment.
- Risk review: sun exposure history, skin type, immune status, prior skin cancers, medications (e.g., immunosuppressants).
- Clear plan: treatment options, benefits/risks, scar planning in visible areas, and prevention guidance are documented for you.
Personalised Treatment Options We Offer
Dermoscopy & Mole Mapping (Diagnostic Tools)
Enhanced assessment guides correct treatment selection and avoids under‑ or over‑treating. Mole mapping helps detect subtle change in patients with multiple lesions or high risk, reducing unnecessary procedures while staying safe.
Excision Surgery with Histology
The gold standard for suspicious lesions or confirmed cancers. We remove the lesion with appropriate margins and send tissue for histopathology to confirm complete clearance. Closure techniques are chosen to achieve neat, durable results for the site (fine‑line sutures, layered closure). You’ll receive detailed aftercare.
Cryotherapy (Selected Pre‑cancers)
Liquid nitrogen can treat discrete actinic keratoses and some superficial lesions. We tailor freeze times/cycles to site and skin type, and provide sun‑safety and pigment‑change counselling afterwards. See our Cryotherapy service.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
PDT combines a photosensitising cream with a specific light source to treat Bowen’s disease and selected superficial BCCs/actinic damage on appropriate sites. It can offer good cosmetic outcomes. We’ll explain session numbers, comfort measures and aftercare. Learn more on our Photodynamic Therapy page.
CO₂ Laser (Selected Pre‑cancerous Lesions)
For carefully selected, clearly superficial pre‑cancers on suitable sites, CO₂ laser ablation may be considered. It is not used when diagnostic certainty is lacking. We’ll discuss pros/cons versus PDT, topical therapy and surgical options. See our CO₂ Laser service.
Topical Treatments (e.g., 5‑FU, Imiquimod)
Prescription topicals can treat field sun damage and certain superficial lesions. We provide a written regimen (application sites, frequency, expected redness/crusting, when to pause) and plan follow‑up to confirm response.
Your Care Journey at Skinhorizon
- Consultation & dermoscopy: map lesions, confirm diagnosis ± biopsy.
- Plan & consent: agree the safest, most effective option for your lesion and site.
- Treatment: excision (with histology), PDT, cryotherapy, CO₂ laser (selected pre‑cancers) or prescription topicals.
- Aftercare & review: wound care, symptom control, and results check; pathology discussion for excisions.
- Prevention & recall: sun‑safety plan, self‑check guidance, and tailored recall intervals (e.g., for high‑risk patients).
Special Situations We Consider
- High‑risk patients: immunosuppression, organ transplant, prior skin cancers → closer follow‑up and lower threshold for excision.
- Cosmetically sensitive sites: nose, eyelids, lips → meticulous planning, potential staged approaches.
- Skin of colour: PIH risk counselling and sun protection after destructive therapies.
- Large/field actinic damage: field therapy planning (e.g., 5‑FU) and maintenance routines.
Prevention & Sun Protection
Daily photoprotection and smart habits reduce future lesions: high‑SPF use, shade at peak hours, hats/sleeves, and routine self‑checks. We’ll personalise SPF textures and finishes so you actually enjoy using them.
- Daily SPF (face/neck/hands): JD Crème Solaire Ma Peau Sensible SPF 50+ • CF SPF Clear • CF SPF Gold • CF SPF Bronze (tinted)
- After procedures (once closed): consistent SPF on exposed sites to reduce pigment change.
Daily Skin Routine (Prevention‑Focused)
Keep things simple and consistent: gentle cleanse → moisturise → protect. Add field treatments (e.g., 5‑FU) only as prescribed, and follow stop/soothe instructions if irritation flares.
Morning (AM)
- Cleanse (gentle): CB Baby Cleansing Bar • CB Calendula Cleansing Bar
- Moisturise: DP Exo‑Skin Moisturiser 30 ml (thin layer)
- Protect: JD Crème Solaire Ma Peau Sensible SPF 50+ / CF SPF Clear / CF SPF Gold / CF SPF Bronze (choose texture/finish)
Evening (PM)
- Cleanse: CB Baby or CB Calendula (lukewarm water)
- Replenish: DP Exo‑Skin Moisturiser 30 ml; if using field therapy (e.g., 5‑FU), follow your exact schedule and pause rules.
Safety & Potential Risks
We prioritise techniques that give diagnostic certainty and complete clearance where needed. All procedures carry small risks (bleeding, infection, scarring, pigment change). We’ll explain site‑specific expectations and provide clear aftercare; pathology results are discussed promptly for excised lesions.
Expected Outcomes
You’ll receive a confirmed diagnosis and a clear, written plan. For excisions, histology confirms removal; for superficial lesions, we agree a follow‑up to verify response (clinical or dermoscopic). Prevention and recall reduce future risk and catch any new lesions early.
Patient Experience
“Being told exactly what I had and seeing the plan in writing made all the difference. The excision scar is neat, and I know how to protect my skin now.”
— Verified Skinhorizon patient
Why Choose Skinhorizon?
- Consultant dermatologist‑led: expert diagnosis with dermoscopy and biopsy when needed.
- Complete pathway: excision with histology, PDT, cryotherapy, CO₂ laser (selected pre‑cancers), and prescription field therapies.
- Cosmetic planning: fine‑line closures, site‑matched techniques and scar‑care guidance.
- Clear communication: written aftercare and red‑flag advice; swift pathology follow‑up.
- Regulated setting: CQC‑regulated processes and medical‑grade equipment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is every precancerous lesion dangerous?
How do you decide between surgery, PDT or topicals?
Will I have a scar after treatment?
How often should I be checked after treatment?
Can CO₂ laser treat skin cancer?
This page was reviewed by Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist, last updated August 2025.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results vary, and all medical and aesthetic procedures carry risks and potential complications which will be fully discussed during your consultation. Suitability for treatment can only be determined following an in-person assessment with a qualified healthcare professional at Skinhorizon Clinic.
