Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a highly effective non-surgical treatment for certain types of pre-cancerous lesions as well as non-melanoma skin cancers
If you have been diagnosed with a pre-cancerous skin lesion or an early-stage non-melanoma skin cancer, you may be looking for a treatment option that is both effective and minimally invasive to avoid surgery. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) targets abnormal skin cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, private photodynamic therapy is delivered by our experienced plastic surgeon in a safe and carefully regulated clinical environment. PDT does not involve traditional surgical excision, which makes it an appealing option for suitable patients, particularly when cosmetic outcome is an important consideration.
If you are seeking timely access to treatment, expert guidance and a clear understanding of your options, a private consultation can help determine whether PDT is appropriate for your condition.
Photodynamic therapy combines a light-sensitive medication with a specific light source to destroy abnormal cells. A topical photosensitising cream is applied to the affected area; this medication is absorbed more readily by abnormal or rapidly dividing cells than by healthy tissue. After a set period, the treated area is exposed to a specialised light that activates the agent and destroys the targeted cells.
One of the advantages of PDT is the ability to treat areas of sun-damaged skin more broadly, which is particularly useful where multiple small lesions are present. Occasionally this can be combined with carbon dioxide laser (CO2 laser) for larger or more complex lesions, which is a service we are able to provide at Fairfield Independent Hospital that is not widely available elsewhere.
PDT is performed as an outpatient procedure. Some patients require a single session, while others benefit from repeat sessions.
PDT is widely used to treat actinic keratoses, which are rough, scaly patches that develop from cumulative sun damage and are considered pre-cancerous.
It is also used for certain superficial non-melanoma skin cancers, including selected cases of basal cell carcinoma and Bowen's disease, particularly when lesions are superficial and in cosmetically sensitive areas.
Our plastic surgeon will assess factors such as size, depth, location and number of lesions before recommending PDT. In some cases, alternative treatments may be used, which might include surgical excision, topical medication, radiotherapy or cryotherapy. Sometimes the addition of carbon dioxide laser to PDT is especially beneficial.
Individualised assessment ensures that treatment is both safe and suitable for your specific diagnosis.
Choosing private PDT at Fairfield Independent Hospital allows you to access specialist assessment and treatment without unnecessary waiting.
Your care pathway begins with a detailed consultation where we will examine your skin carefully and review any relevant medical history, biopsy results or previous treatments. A precise diagnosis is essential, as PDT is not suitable for all types of skin cancer or lesion.
If photodynamic therapy is recommended, your specialist will explain how the treatment works, what to expect on the day of the procedure, the likely number of sessions required, and the potential side effects. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to assess healing and treatment response.
The cost of photodynamic therapy at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on the nature of your condition and the treatment plan recommended.
Factors that may influence pricing include the size and number of lesions being treated and whether more than one treatment session is required. During your consultation, your specialist will explain the proposed approach and provide clear information about the associated costs before you make a decision.
If you have private medical insurance, you should confirm your level of cover directly with your insurer, as eligibility may depend on your diagnosis. For self-funding patients, the hospital team will provide transparent pricing information and discuss available payment options.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Timely access to treatment is important in managing pre-cancerous conditions. Located in St Helens and easily accessible from Liverpool and Manchester, Fairfield offers prompt specialist care in a professional setting.
If you have been diagnosed with a pre-cancerous lesion or superficial non-melanoma skin cancer and would like to explore whether photodynamic therapy is appropriate, arranging a consultation is the first step.
To book an appointment to discuss PDT with our plastic surgeon in St Helens, give us a call and one of our friendly advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
Mon - Sun: 8am to 8pm
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