Specialist diagnosis & Treatment for skin cancer

Private Skin Cancer Clinic in Dorchester

Fast Access to Expert, Consultant-Led Skin Cancer Care

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Prompt, specialist-led care when it counts most

Trusted Skin Cancer clinic in dorchester

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK, with more than 150,000 new cases diagnosed every year. Despite growing awareness of sun safety, the number of people affected continues to rise, especially among those with fair skin or prolonged exposure to UV rays. 

At The Melbury Skin Clinic in Dorchester, we offer specialist, consultant-led care for early detection and treatment for all forms of skin cancer. Our service is designed for fast access without referral, so you don’t have to wait to get the answers you need. Whether you’re concerned about about a new or changing mole, or you’ve been referred for a specialist review, our experienced team is here to guide you every step – from diagnosis to personalised treatment and ongoing care. 

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Understanding the most common skin cancer in the uk

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It can appear in various forms, some of which grow slowly and can be easily treated, while others may spread quickly and require urgent medical attention. Early detection is vital - most skin cancers, when found early, are highly treatable.

Understanding the difference

Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is not a single condition but a group of diseases that affect the skin in different ways. They are three main types, each has unique characteristics, risk factors and treatments – but all benefit from early diagnosis and expert care.  

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

The most common and slowest-growing type. Often appears as pearly bump or red patch. Rarely spreads but can cause local damage if untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

The second most common form. Tends to grow faster than BCC and can spread if left untreated. Often presents as a scaly, crusted core.

Melanoma

A less common but more serious form that can spread quickly. Usually begins as a new or changing mole. Early treatment is vital and critical.

Know what to look for

Symptoms & warning signs

Recognising the early signs of skin cancer can make a significant difference in outcomes. Changes in the size, shape or colour of a mole, or the appearance of a new unusual lesion should never be ignored. While not all changes are cancerous, prompt assessment by a specialist is essential. 

Changing to Exisiting Moles or Lesions
  • A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
  • A mole that becomes raised, rough or crusty
  • Itching, tenderness or bleeding from a mole
  • A mole that looks different from the others
New Skin Growths
  • A new bump, lump or discoloured patch that doesn’t go away
  • Pearly or waxy nodules, especially on sun-exposed areas
  • Flat, red patches or scaly, thickened skin
Sores or Wounds That Don't Heal
  • A spot or sore that remains open, crusts or bleeds repeatedly 
  • A lesion that seems to heal but returns in the same area
Melanoma Specific Signs - The ABCDE Rule
  • A – Asymmetry: one half of the mole doesn’t match the other
  • B – Border: edges are irregular, ragged or blurred
  • C – Colour: uneven colours, including black, brown, red or even blue
  • D – Diameter: larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
  • E – Evolving: any new change in appearance, sensation or behaviour 

If you’ve noticed any of the above changes, even if you are unsure – it’s always best to have your skin checked by our specialists. At The Melbury Skin Clinic, we offer fast, consultant-led assessments with minimal waiting times for peace of mind and early diagnosis. 

Tailored Treatment backed by expertise

How skin cancer is treated

At The Melbury Skin Clinic, we provide advanced consultant-led treatment for all types of skin cancer – from early stage lesions to complex cases. Each patient receives a personalised care plan based on the type, stage and location of the cancer. 

Minor Surgical Procedures

When required, we perform skin lesion removal on-site, safely excising suspicious moles or growths under expert supervision. This highly effective procedure removes the cancerous area along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete clearance and reduce the risk of recurrence.

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Cryotherapy

Best for early or superficial skin cancers. Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells, offering a non-invasive treatment option.

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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) uses a light-sensitive cream activated by natural daylight to target and treat superficial skin cancers precisely with minimal discomfort.

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Peace of mind through early detection

Mole Mapping

Accurate diagnosis and long-term skin monitoring are essential in preventing and detecting skin cancer early. Our revolutionary mole mapping service uses high-resolution digital imaging to document your skin and identify any changes over time.
Explore our mole mapping services

Private Appointments Available

No Referrals needed. Experience faster access to expert, consultant-led care that's tailored, trusted and affordable

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Got Any questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

We've answered some of the most common questions to help you feel informed and confident about your care at The Melbury Skin Clinic.
If you can't find what you're looking for, please feel free to give us a call and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Skin cancer can present in many forms, including new or changing moles, non-healing sores or unusual growths. Warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, colour changes or bleeding. Amy persistent change to the skin should be assessed by our consultant dermatologist. 

No referral is needed. You can book directly with our Consultant Dermatologist ensuring faster access to expert assessment, diagnosis and treatment. 

We offer prompt appointments with minimal wait times. Early diagnosis is key, so our clinic is designed to deliver fast, consultant-led care with quick turnaround for biopsies and treatments when needed. 

Mole mapping is a digital imaging service that tracks changes in moles over time. It’s especially recommended for people with multiple moles, fair skin or a personal or family history of skin cancer. It helps detect abnormalities early – before they become serious. 

Yes, many patients choose to use private care for quicker diagnosis or treatment, while continuing to access certain services through the NHS. You can discuss options with both your GP and our team to find the best approach for you. 

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