‘Skin lesions’ is the generic name for a wide range of lumps or bumps that appear on the skin, through a variety of different causes. The vast majority of skin lesions are harmless, but they can cause significant cosmetic concern, and affect an individual’s confidence, or they can routinely catch on clothing (and hence be a source of regular irritation).

A selection of some of the different types of skin lesions which can be treated at BrightNewMe are shown below.  We treat a wide variety of lesions using two processes, cryotherapy or thermo-coagulation.

The process of cryotherapy which is used, for example, to treat warts, skin tags and moles, involves the precise application of a freezing gas to the lesion, such that the damaged cells are destroyed and eliminated. The equipment we use is the Cryopen, which is so accurate that lesions measuring just 1 mm across can be targeted, with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues. Within our Cryopens we use two different gases, allowing us greater flexibility with regards to tailor-made treatments.  We use Nitrous Oxide (which freezes to minus 89 degrees C) for deep or raised lesions, or Carbon Dioxide (which provides a so-called ‘soft freeze’, to minus 76 degrees C) for flat, more superficial lesions such as age spots.

You should be aware that following treatment there will be some downtime (for example there may be scabbing and occasionally a blister at the site of the lesion) in the short term. Cryotherapy is not suitable for dark/ pigmented skins, as there is a risk of loss of pigmentation, leaving a white area.

Thermo-coagulation is a procedure whereby a tiny amount of microwave energy is transmitted, through a needle the width of a strand of hair, directly into the lesion. The process is repeated to cover the entire lesion. The energy affects only the cells around the point of entry, leaving surrounding tissues unaffected.  It is a technique pioneered for the treatment of thread veins, but has been shown to be extremely effective for treating some skin lesions, particularly those of a vascular nature such as red blood spots (Cherry Angiomas) and spider naevi. Small lesions such as sebaceous hyperplasia can also be treated with thermocoagulation. Short term scabbing is likely following treatment.

Examples of treatable skin lesions

Charges

Treatment costs inevitably vary according to the type of treatment (freezing or heat treatment) and also the nature, size and number of lesions to be treated. We ask patients to send in photographs of the lesions, for an initial assessment by Dr Sarah Norman. She will determine whether or not further investigation is indicated, and/or determine suitability for treatment. If you proceed with treatment this will be undertaken by Dr Sarah.

For cryotherapy, in general, the cost of the first lesion to be treated is £95- £110 (depending on the lesion’s size), with additional lesions charged at £15-£25 each (again depending on size). Very large lesions (8mm or more in diameter, or very raised) will require a longer treatment time and are charged at more than the above.

The majority of lesions require a second freezing treatment, as (to minimise the risk of potential issues like hypopigmentation) it is clinically appropriate to err on the side of caution, and treat conservatively. Severe warts can require multiple treatments. Repeat sessions are usually undertaken at 28 day intervals, and are also chargeable, albeit often at a reduced charge (typically 75% of the original charge).

For thermocoagulation, treatment cost is based on time but is typically £120 for one lesion, or £275 if multiple lesions. Repeat treatment is often required one month later.

A more specific cost estimate can be given upon receipt of a clear photograph of the area of concern. Please see the contact form at the bottom of this page.

Some patients follow their lesion treatment with Dermalux LED light therapy, the cost of which is £40 for one 30 minute session. This will not only reduce the downtime (redness and healing) but also provide general skin benefits.

Tissue Diagnosis

Please be aware that the 2 techniques we offer (freezing or burning) do not enable a tissue diagnosis – nothing is sent off to the laboratory. As such, the treatments are only offered to benign (non-cancerous) lesions. If your mole/ lesion is pigmented you will be asked to attend your General Practitioner prior to visiting BrightNewMe. This is important in order for us to confirm the appropriateness of our treatment.

Patient experience

Although we have a dedicated page for general client testimonials, below you will see a selection of comments from patients whose skin lesions we have treated.  Click on the extract to see the comments in full.