Actinic Keratosis Treatment

Effective Removal of Actinic Keratosis in London with Advanced Laser Technique at Centre for Surgery

Actinic keratosis, a common skin condition often linked to prolonged exposure to the sun, presents as rough, scaly patches on the skin. These areas, typically found on parts of the body like the face, ears, arms, and hands, can sometimes progress to skin cancer if left untreated. Recognising the importance of effective treatment, Centre for Surgery in London offers an advanced solution for actinic keratosis removal, prioritising patient safety and optimal results.

At our state-of-the-art clinic located in the heart of London, we utilise a cutting-edge laser technique for the removal of actinic keratosis. This method stands out for its precision and effectiveness, providing a targeted approach that minimises damage to surrounding healthy skin. The laser technique uses concentrated light beams to meticulously remove the affected skin layers, offering a controlled and efficient treatment option. This approach particularly benefits patients seeking a non-invasive alternative with minimal downtime.

The procedure begins with a thorough consultation with our experienced laser dermatological specialists. During this session, we assess the affected areas and discuss the most suitable treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs. The laser removal process itself is relatively quick and is performed under local anaesthesia to ensure comfort. Following the procedure, patients can expect a brief recovery period, during which our team provides comprehensive aftercare guidance to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Choosing Centre for Surgery for actinic keratosis removal ensures you receive care from a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Our commitment to using advanced technology and a patient-centred approach makes us a leading choice for laser dermatological treatments in London. We understand the concerns and needs of our patients and strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and reassuring environment throughout the treatment journey.

Actinic keratosis is a skin condition characterised by rough, scaly patches. It primarily results from long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. These patches, often less than an inch in diameter, are typically found on areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, backs of the hands, and arms.

The texture of these patches can be described as dry, crusty, and sometimes itchy or painful when touched. They may appear in various colours, ranging from pink to red or even a brownish hue. The skin beneath and around these patches might feel normal or slightly tender.

Actinic keratosis is considered a precancerous condition, meaning that if left untreated, it has the potential to develop into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Not all actinic keratoses progress to cancer, and many remain benign. The risk of transformation into a malignancy varies, but it is generally considered to be relatively low for any single lesion.

The development of actinic keratosis is a cumulative effect of sun damage over many years. People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are at higher risk, as are those with a history of extensive sun exposure or sunburns. Older adults are more likely to develop actinic keratosis because cumulative sun exposure increases with age.

Prevention of actinic keratosis primarily involves protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure. This includes using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding sunbathing or the use of tanning beds.

If actinic keratosis is suspected, a laser dermatologist can typically diagnose the condition by examining the skin. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out skin cancer. Treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and number of lesions and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include cryotherapy (freezing the lesion), topical medications, photodynamic therapy, and laser therapy. The choice of treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs, to remove the lesion and prevent potential progression to cancer.

The Erbium YAG laser is a highly effective tool used in dermatology for the treatment of various skin conditions, including the removal of actinic keratosis. This laser technology offers several benefits, making it a preferred choice for both laser dermatologists and patients. Here are some of the key advantages of using the Erbium YAG laser for actinic keratosis removal:

1. Precision and Control: The Erbium YAG laser operates with a high degree of accuracy, allowing dermatologists to target actinic keratosis lesions with precision while sparing the surrounding healthy skin. This level of control is crucial in reducing the risk of scarring and other skin damage.
2. Minimal Discomfort: Patients generally experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. The laser treatment is less invasive compared to some other methods, which often translates to reduced pain both during and after the procedure.
3. Lower Risk of Scarring: Due to its precision and the way the laser interacts with the skin, there is a lower risk of scarring compared to more invasive surgical procedures. This is particularly important for lesions on visible areas of the body, such as the face and hands.
4. Quick Recovery Time: Patients typically enjoy a quicker recovery time following Erbium YAG laser treatment. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, and patients can often return to their normal activities shortly after treatment, with minimal downtime.
5. Effectiveness in Treatment: The Erbium YAG laser is highly effective in removing actinic keratosis lesions. It can successfully treat the condition, reducing the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
6. Suitability for Multiple Lesions: This laser treatment can be used effectively to treat multiple lesions in a single session, making it an efficient option for patients with numerous actinic keratoses.
7. Cosmetic Outcomes: Given its precision and controlled depth of penetration, the Erbium YAG laser often results in superior cosmetic outcomes, which is a significant consideration for treatments on exposed skin areas.
8. Reduced Inflammation and Redness: Post-treatment inflammation and redness are generally less severe and of shorter duration compared to other removal methods, which contributes to a more comfortable recovery process.
9. Customisable Treatment: The parameters of the Erbium YAG laser can be adjusted according to the specific requirements of each actinic keratosis lesion, such as its size and depth, allowing for a customised treatment approach.

When you visit our Baker Street clinic for the laser removal of actinic keratosis, you can expect a blend of professional care, advanced technology, and a comfortable setting. Here’s what to anticipate during your visit:

1. Welcoming Environment: Upon arrival at our Baker Street clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff in a welcoming and professional environment. Our clinic is designed to ensure your comfort and privacy throughout your visit.
2. Initial Assessment: Your appointment will start with a consultation with one of our experienced laser specialists. This is an opportunity to discuss your medical history, the specifics of your actinic keratosis, and any concerns you might have. The laser specialist will examine the areas of concern to confirm the diagnosis and determine the suitability of laser treatment for you.
3. Detailed Explanation: Before proceeding with the procedure, your skin specialist will explain the laser treatment in detail. This includes how the laser works, what you can expect during and after the procedure, potential risks, and the anticipated outcomes.
4. Pre-Procedure Preparation: If laser treatment is deemed appropriate, you will be prepared for the procedure. This preparation includes cleansing the area to be treated and applying a topical anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. You will also be provided with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light.
5. The Laser Procedure: During the procedure, the laser specialist will use erbium YAG laser to target and remove the actinic keratosis lesions. You might feel a sensation of warmth or a slight snapping feeling on the skin, but the process is generally well-tolerated due to the anaesthetic.
6. Duration: The duration of the laser procedure varies depending on the number and size of the lesions. It can range from a few minutes for a small area to longer for more extensive treatment.
7. Immediate Post-Treatment Care: After the treatment, the treated area may be red and slightly swollen. Our staff will apply a soothing ointment or gel and provide you with aftercare instructions. These instructions will include how to care for the treated area, signs of complications to watch for, and recommendations for sun protection.
8. Recovery and Downtime: Recovery times can vary, but you can typically expect to resume most of your normal activities immediately after the procedure. Any redness or swelling usually subsides within a few days.
9. Follow-Up: We typically schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing process and assess the effectiveness of the treatment. This is also an opportunity to address any concerns and discuss further treatment if necessary.
10. Ongoing Care and Prevention: Our commitment to your skin health extends beyond the treatment. We provide advice on how to protect your skin from future sun damage and the potential development of new actinic keratoses.

Actinic keratosis, a skin condition characterised by rough, scaly patches caused by sun exposure, has multiple treatment options. However, at Centre for Surgery, the Erbium YAG laser is considered the gold standard for its treatment, especially for precision-required areas and multiple lesions.

Broad Range of Treatments for Actinic Keratosis

Traditionally, treatments for actinic keratosis include topical creams for thinner lesions and cryotherapy for larger ones. Chemical peels, known for their anti-ageing benefits, also effectively treat multiple actinic keratoses on the face, helping replace damaged skin with a more youthful appearance within about a week.

Erbium YAG Laser at Centre for Surgery

The Erbium YAG laser, however, stands out for its precision and minimal invasiveness, making it our preferred choice. It’s especially advantageous for treating individual lesions or performing full-face resurfacing when a patient has multiple actinic keratoses. This laser is exceptionally suited for sensitive or hard-to-reach areas like the eyelids.

Advantages of the Erbium YAG Laser:

1. Precision and Safety: The laser allows for precise treatment, ensuring that only the affected areas are targeted, minimising the impact on surrounding healthy skin.
2. Minimal Bleeding and Downtime: One significant benefit of using the Erbium YAG laser is the reduced bleeding during the procedure and virtually no downtime, allowing patients to resume their normal activities quickly.
3. Efficient Absorption and Minimal Thermal Injury: The laser is highly absorbed by water in the skin cells, enabling it to treat lesions effectively while causing minimal thermal damage to deeper skin layers.
4. Procedure Steps: The treatment area is first cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Then, the skin lesions are numbed using EMLA (a topical anaesthetic), enhancing patient comfort. The Erbium YAG laser is utilised in a cold ablation mode to minimise thermal injury further. The laser is passed over each region multiple times until the actinic keratosis is completely removed.

At Centre for Surgery, we specialise in providing top-tier dermatological treatments, including the advanced laser removal of actinic keratosis. Our Baker Street clinic in London is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, expert practitioners, and a meticulous approach that ensures both safety and satisfaction.

Patient Testimonials:

• Emma, London: “I had a wonderful experience at Centre for Surgery. The laser treatment for my actinic keratosis was quick and virtually painless. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and made me feel at ease throughout the process. I’m thrilled with the results.”
• David, Kent: “The level of care I received at Centre for Surgery was exceptional. The team was professional and supportive, and the treatment has significantly improved the appearance of my skin. Highly recommend their services.”
• Sophie, Essex: “From the initial consultation to the post-treatment follow-up, my experience was nothing short of excellent. The laser procedure was effective, and the staff were always available to answer my questions. A top-notch clinic.”

Booking a Consultation:

To book a consultation for actinic keratosis laser treatment, please contact us at:

Phone: 0207 993 4849

Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com

Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN

For more information about our clinic and what sets us apart, visit our About Us page.

Finance Options:

We understand that financial considerations are important. Centre for Surgery offers various finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance, to make treatments accessible. Learn more about our finance options here.

Further Reading and Information:

For additional insights and information about our services, including various plastic surgery procedures and treatments, explore our plastic surgery blog.

For answers to common questions about cosmetic surgery, visit our Clinic FAQs.

Our Baker Street Clinic:

Our Baker Street clinic is equipped with the latest in laser technology and staffed by experienced dermatologists. For more details about the clinic and its offerings, visit the Baker Street clinic link.

At Centre for Surgery, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and delivering outstanding results. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way, from initial consultation through to recovery and beyond.