Basal Cell Carcinoma: Expert treatment of skin cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the commonest form of skin cancer, primarily caused by long-term sun exposure. While it is slow-growing and rarely spreads, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent local tissue damage.
Why Choose ProDerm UK?
Cancer Specialist Dermatologists and Skin Surgeons
All doctors are consultant dermatologists who specialise in skin cancer, ensuring expert diagnosis and treatment.
Cancer Specialist Dermatologists and Skin Surgeons
All doctors are consultant dermatologists who specialise in skin cancer, ensuring expert diagnosis and treatment.
Cancer Specialist Dermatologists and Skin Surgeons
All doctors are consultant dermatologists who specialise in skin cancer, ensuring expert diagnosis and treatment.
Same Day Cancer Treatment
No on likes waiting to have treatment for a lesion that might be cancerous, so we will always try to remove or biopsy your cancer on the same day as the appointment with the results coming in as little as 2-3 days.
Same Day Cancer Treatment
No on likes waiting to have treatment for a lesion that might be cancerous, so we will always try to remove or biopsy your cancer on the same day as the appointment with the results coming in as little as 2-3 days.
Same Day Cancer Treatment
No on likes waiting to have treatment for a lesion that might be cancerous, so we will always try to remove or biopsy your cancer on the same day as the appointment with the results coming in as little as 2-3 days.
Rapid Access to Treatment
We work with most of the leading UK medical insurance providers for stress-free billing.
Rapid Access to Treatment
We work with most of the leading UK medical insurance providers for stress-free billing.
Rapid Access to Treatment
We work with most of the leading UK medical insurance providers for stress-free billing.
Affordable Expertise
Highly competitive pricing without compromising on quality; putting patients before profit.
Affordable Expertise
Highly competitive pricing without compromising on quality; putting patients before profit.
Affordable Expertise
Highly competitive pricing without compromising on quality; putting patients before profit.
Recognised by Most Major Medical Insurers
For all types of skin cancer, ProDerm UKs consultant dermatologists offer expert diagnosis and treatment.
Recognised by Most Major Medical Insurers
For all types of skin cancer, ProDerm UKs consultant dermatologists offer expert diagnosis and treatment.
Recognised by Most Major Medical Insurers
For all types of skin cancer, ProDerm UKs consultant dermatologists offer expert diagnosis and treatment.
What Does BCC Look Like?
Basal cell carcinoma often presents as a shiny, pink or skin-coloured lump on the skin, usually in sun exposed areas such as the face, chest, back and legs. Fair-skinned individuals are particularly at risk, although BCC can affect people of all skin tones.
BCC may have a central crater that becomes crusted or weepy over time and does not heal. They are often 'pearly' or translucent with visible blood vessels on the surface. Sometimes superficial basal cell carcinomas can look like a red scaly patch.
These cancers do not spread and therefore are not dangerous as they are easily cured, especially if caught early.
Because of the variety of clinical presentation for BCC, it is important to seek expert dermatological opinion if you are concerned.
What Does BCC Look Like?
Basal cell carcinoma often presents as a shiny, pink or skin-coloured lump on the skin, usually in sun exposed areas such as the face, chest, back and legs. Fair-skinned individuals are particularly at risk, although BCC can affect people of all skin tones.
BCC may have a central crater that becomes crusted or weepy over time and does not heal. They are often 'pearly' or translucent with visible blood vessels on the surface. Sometimes superficial basal cell carcinomas can look like a red scaly patch.
These cancers do not spread and therefore are not dangerous as they are easily cured, especially if caught early.
Because of the variety of clinical presentation for BCC, it is important to seek expert dermatological opinion if you are concerned.
What Does BCC Look Like?
Basal cell carcinoma often presents as a shiny, pink or skin-coloured lump on the skin, usually in sun exposed areas such as the face, chest, back and legs. Fair-skinned individuals are particularly at risk, although BCC can affect people of all skin tones.
BCC may have a central crater that becomes crusted or weepy over time and does not heal. They are often 'pearly' or translucent with visible blood vessels on the surface. Sometimes superficial basal cell carcinomas can look like a red scaly patch.
These cancers do not spread and therefore are not dangerous as they are easily cured, especially if caught early.
Because of the variety of clinical presentation for BCC, it is important to seek expert dermatological opinion if you are concerned.
Why Early Treatment is
Important
Although BCC does not typically spread to other parts of the body, it can grow deeper into the skin, causing damage to surrounding tissues. Seeking expert dermatological care ensures effective treatment and minimises any scarring following treatment.
Although BCC does not typically spread to other parts of the body, it can grow deeper into the skin, causing damage to surrounding tissues. Seeking expert dermatological care ensures effective treatment and minimises any scarring following treatment.
Treatment Options
for BCC
Topical Treatments
For superficial basal cell carcinomas, a course of cream application with either anti-cancer creams such as 5-fluorouracil or immune-stimulators such as Imiquimod can be effective with minimal scarring. Freezing spray (cryosurgery) normally brings about good resolution but can sometimes leave a pale mark.
For more stubborn lesions, surgical curettage and cautery can help. This involves scraping the lesion off with a sharp blade (or curette) and using heat to cauterise.
Surgical Removal
Once a biopsy has confirmed BCC, excision can be performed. A clear surgical margin of healthy skin around the cancer is removed to ensure that all of the cancer is taken and to minimise the chance of recurrence.
The lateral excision margins for Basal cell carcinoma are normally 2-3 mm.
The wound is sometimes closed with stitching, but occasionally reconstructive surgery is required in the form of skin flaps or grafts to get adequate closure and optimise cosmetic results.
Moh’s Micrographic Surgery
'Moh's' surgery involves removal of the tumour and microscopic evaluation whilst you wait. If the microscopy confirms that the tumour is not adequately excise, microdissection is further undertaken and the process repeated until the tumour margins are clear.
Only once the microscopic evaluation has confirmed that the tumour is adequately removed would the wound then be closed either primarily with stitching or through reconstructive methods eg flaps or grafts.
Mohs surgery gives almost 100% chance of complete cure of basal cell carcinoma and because the margins are narrow, the surgical scar is smaller, thus giving the best cosmetic outcome.
Moh’s surgeons are super-specialised and not all Dermatologists have the training to undertake this type of micrographic surgical treatment
Radiotherapy
Superficial radiotherapy is used to treat large basal or squamous cell carcinomas or those that cannot be easily surgically excised.
Referral to a specialist oncologist is required and the process usually requires several visits to the oncology department to receive small doses of radiation.
The treatment only affects the exposed areas of skin and thus does not cause illness or generalised hair loss. Cosmetic results are generally excellent.
Photodynamic Therapy
In Photodynamic Therapy, a cream is applied to the lesion and left to soak in to the skin cancer. 3 hours later a bright light is applied which activates the cream, turning it into a toxin and thus focally killing the cancer cells.
PDT can sometimes be quite painful so local anaesthetic may be required.
The cosmetic results are generally excellent but it can only be used for superficial basal or squamous cell carcinomas.
Our
Happy Clients
Dr Friedmann’s bedside manner is extremely professional and reassuring. I felt comfortable during surgery and knew that I would be well supported during my recovery.
Charlie F
Dr. Adam Friedmann helped me get rid of a stubborn wart quickly and painlessly. Professional, efficient, and highly effective—I couldn’t recommend him more!
Alex C
Dr Friedmann is a pleasure to work with. He is friendly and charismatic; his experience as an accomplished dermatology consultant shines through. Patients are always delighted with his care and efficiency.
Jen
I've worked with many clinicians, but few show the care, skill and insight that Dr Friedmann brings to every patient. As both a colleague and patient of his, I’ve seen first-hand the exceptional standard of care he delivers. Calm, compassionate, and brilliant – Dr Friedmann is everything you’d hope for in a dermatologist.
Diana
Simply brilliant! From the initial consult to the actual procedure Dr Friedmann made every part of the journey informative and reassuring. I experienced minimal discomfort and was amazed at how quickly I healed.
Ben
Dr. Friedmann was welcoming, professional, and reassuring throughout my entire treatment. My initial consultation came very soon after my first enquiry and Dr. Friedmann's diagnosis was both clear and thorough. He took the time to answer all my questions and discussed the possible treatment options. During the procedure itself, Dr. Friedmann was calm and kept me informed of what he was doing - this was very important as I was nervous. The aftercare was excellent and Dr. Friedmann was incredibly reassuring
Rob
In the short while I’ve been taking the medication I really have noticed an impact! Thank you Dr Friedmann
Natalie C
Fantastic experience from start to finish. Dr Friedman is very professional, knowledgeable, thorough and reassuring. I received great attention and care. Thank you
Vilma B.
I had heard a lot about advanced treatments for acne, and I went to Dr Friedmann because I wanted to understand more about it – his practical down-to-earth manner and expert explanations and advice debunked the myths, and gave me the confidence I needed – he understands people as well as he understands treatments, and his care has been exemplary.
Helen C
He is easily the best dermatologist I have ever been to – his expertise and professionalism have been a revelation!
Peter B
I had suffered intermittent bouts of quite bad acne over many years, and never really found a long-term solution with any of the specialists I had used – until my husband introduced me to Dr Friedmann, whose advice and treatment has been superb – thanks to him my acne is now under control and I have my life back again.
Catherine B
After struggling with acne and various dermatologists for decades, it was a revelation. He demonstrated a real expertise in the subject and designed a tailored treatment and maintenance package that has transformed my life during the 10 years I have been seeing him – only wish I had discovered Dr Friedmann 40 years ago!
Emily R
Dr Adam Friedmann is open and easy to talk to – and most importantly has a genuine real understanding of the debilitating effects of acne on the sufferer, and he makes you feel at ease and comfortable at all times.
Anna W
Dr Friedmann is by far the best dermatologist I have ever had – his excellent understanding manner combined with a pragmatic approach and real expertise and professionalism is unique in my experience.
Richard T
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone – in fact I already have several times to both friends and my wife – and all of them agreed with me that they wouldn’t now go to anyone else.
Mark D
In earlier life I had seen a number of dermatologists for persistent and recurring acne problems, but over 10 years ago I started with Dr Adam Friedmann, and have stayed with him ever since – in my opinion, he’s the best in his field.
James L
Throughout every step of this process, Dr Friedmann put me at ease and filled me with confidence and the clinic and his nursing team were absolutely fantastic. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Dr Friedmann to anyone
Fiona G
Dr Friedmann very quickly treated the isolated area with liquid Nitrogen. This was pain free and I was advised that the dark patch would simply turn a little bit darker over the next few days and would come off by itself. I just had to lightly moisturise during this healing stage and for a little while afterwards to help the process. This happened exactly as promised and now, several months later there is absolutely no mark or trace of the dark patch on my cheek.
Carol M
After a thorough examination, Dr Friedmann diagnosed the mark to be a harmless solar lentigo and explained it was nothing to worry about and is commonly caused by sunlight.
Linda P
I had a small dark area of skin on my face for a few years and after noticing it getting gradually larger and worrying about possible skin cancer, I went to see Dr Friedmann at his Harley Street clinic.
Margaret C
Dr Adam Friedmann’s sensible, practical, and expert advice and treatment for my acne was transformative, giving me back my confidence in my personal and business life – I can’t thank him enough!
Charles B
Dr Friedmann listens patiently and his extensive skill and experience is clear from his careful questioning and advice. He’s unhurried approach is reassuring. He has been clear that he remains available to support me by email or telephone on my ongoing treatment for eczema when a further consultation is not necessary.
Paul L
My husband and I have been patients of Dr Adam Friedmann for years – he is by far the best dermatologist I have ever seen, and the highest recommendation I can give him is that if ever my daughter or her grandchildren needed advice or treatment in that area, I would insist they go to him!
Caroline B
I have longstanding and severe rosacea which at times flares up. During flare ups it is painful and affects my confidence. Dr. Friedmann was able to see me at short notice during my recent flare up. There is an easy process for booking and payment. Dr. Friedmann was kind and reassuring and most importantly incredibly knowledgeable. He created a treatment plan with both short term and long-term outcomes. My skin has already settled and is feeling and looking much better. I would highly recommend Adam and his team.
Sarah C
Professional, knowledgeable, and caring. Definitely the best dermatologist in Cheltenham as far as I’m concerned!
James R
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Julie B
I was seen quickly and given excellent treatment. Can’t thank the team enough.
Emma L
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Sarah T
Our
Happy Clients
Dr Friedmann’s bedside manner is extremely professional and reassuring. I felt comfortable during surgery and knew that I would be well supported during my recovery.
Charlie F
Dr. Adam Friedmann helped me get rid of a stubborn wart quickly and painlessly. Professional, efficient, and highly effective—I couldn’t recommend him more!
Alex C
Dr Friedmann is a pleasure to work with. He is friendly and charismatic; his experience as an accomplished dermatology consultant shines through. Patients are always delighted with his care and efficiency.
Jen
I've worked with many clinicians, but few show the care, skill and insight that Dr Friedmann brings to every patient. As both a colleague and patient of his, I’ve seen first-hand the exceptional standard of care he delivers. Calm, compassionate, and brilliant – Dr Friedmann is everything you’d hope for in a dermatologist.
Diana
Simply brilliant! From the initial consult to the actual procedure Dr Friedmann made every part of the journey informative and reassuring. I experienced minimal discomfort and was amazed at how quickly I healed.
Ben
Dr. Friedmann was welcoming, professional, and reassuring throughout my entire treatment. My initial consultation came very soon after my first enquiry and Dr. Friedmann's diagnosis was both clear and thorough. He took the time to answer all my questions and discussed the possible treatment options. During the procedure itself, Dr. Friedmann was calm and kept me informed of what he was doing - this was very important as I was nervous. The aftercare was excellent and Dr. Friedmann was incredibly reassuring
Rob
In the short while I’ve been taking the medication I really have noticed an impact! Thank you Dr Friedmann
Natalie C
Fantastic experience from start to finish. Dr Friedman is very professional, knowledgeable, thorough and reassuring. I received great attention and care. Thank you
Vilma B.
I had heard a lot about advanced treatments for acne, and I went to Dr Friedmann because I wanted to understand more about it – his practical down-to-earth manner and expert explanations and advice debunked the myths, and gave me the confidence I needed – he understands people as well as he understands treatments, and his care has been exemplary.
Helen C
He is easily the best dermatologist I have ever been to – his expertise and professionalism have been a revelation!
Peter B
I had suffered intermittent bouts of quite bad acne over many years, and never really found a long-term solution with any of the specialists I had used – until my husband introduced me to Dr Friedmann, whose advice and treatment has been superb – thanks to him my acne is now under control and I have my life back again.
Catherine B
After struggling with acne and various dermatologists for decades, it was a revelation. He demonstrated a real expertise in the subject and designed a tailored treatment and maintenance package that has transformed my life during the 10 years I have been seeing him – only wish I had discovered Dr Friedmann 40 years ago!
Emily R
Dr Adam Friedmann is open and easy to talk to – and most importantly has a genuine real understanding of the debilitating effects of acne on the sufferer, and he makes you feel at ease and comfortable at all times.
Anna W
Dr Friedmann is by far the best dermatologist I have ever had – his excellent understanding manner combined with a pragmatic approach and real expertise and professionalism is unique in my experience.
Richard T
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone – in fact I already have several times to both friends and my wife – and all of them agreed with me that they wouldn’t now go to anyone else.
Mark D
In earlier life I had seen a number of dermatologists for persistent and recurring acne problems, but over 10 years ago I started with Dr Adam Friedmann, and have stayed with him ever since – in my opinion, he’s the best in his field.
James L
Throughout every step of this process, Dr Friedmann put me at ease and filled me with confidence and the clinic and his nursing team were absolutely fantastic. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Dr Friedmann to anyone
Fiona G
Dr Friedmann very quickly treated the isolated area with liquid Nitrogen. This was pain free and I was advised that the dark patch would simply turn a little bit darker over the next few days and would come off by itself. I just had to lightly moisturise during this healing stage and for a little while afterwards to help the process. This happened exactly as promised and now, several months later there is absolutely no mark or trace of the dark patch on my cheek.
Carol M
After a thorough examination, Dr Friedmann diagnosed the mark to be a harmless solar lentigo and explained it was nothing to worry about and is commonly caused by sunlight.
Linda P
I had a small dark area of skin on my face for a few years and after noticing it getting gradually larger and worrying about possible skin cancer, I went to see Dr Friedmann at his Harley Street clinic.
Margaret C
Dr Adam Friedmann’s sensible, practical, and expert advice and treatment for my acne was transformative, giving me back my confidence in my personal and business life – I can’t thank him enough!
Charles B
Dr Friedmann listens patiently and his extensive skill and experience is clear from his careful questioning and advice. He’s unhurried approach is reassuring. He has been clear that he remains available to support me by email or telephone on my ongoing treatment for eczema when a further consultation is not necessary.
Paul L
My husband and I have been patients of Dr Adam Friedmann for years – he is by far the best dermatologist I have ever seen, and the highest recommendation I can give him is that if ever my daughter or her grandchildren needed advice or treatment in that area, I would insist they go to him!
Caroline B
I have longstanding and severe rosacea which at times flares up. During flare ups it is painful and affects my confidence. Dr. Friedmann was able to see me at short notice during my recent flare up. There is an easy process for booking and payment. Dr. Friedmann was kind and reassuring and most importantly incredibly knowledgeable. He created a treatment plan with both short term and long-term outcomes. My skin has already settled and is feeling and looking much better. I would highly recommend Adam and his team.
Sarah C
Professional, knowledgeable, and caring. Definitely the best dermatologist in Cheltenham as far as I’m concerned!
James R
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Julie B
I was seen quickly and given excellent treatment. Can’t thank the team enough.
Emma L
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Sarah T
Our
Happy Clients
Dr Friedmann’s bedside manner is extremely professional and reassuring. I felt comfortable during surgery and knew that I would be well supported during my recovery.
Charlie F
Dr. Adam Friedmann helped me get rid of a stubborn wart quickly and painlessly. Professional, efficient, and highly effective—I couldn’t recommend him more!
Alex C
Dr Friedmann is a pleasure to work with. He is friendly and charismatic; his experience as an accomplished dermatology consultant shines through. Patients are always delighted with his care and efficiency.
Jen
I've worked with many clinicians, but few show the care, skill and insight that Dr Friedmann brings to every patient. As both a colleague and patient of his, I’ve seen first-hand the exceptional standard of care he delivers. Calm, compassionate, and brilliant – Dr Friedmann is everything you’d hope for in a dermatologist.
Diana
Simply brilliant! From the initial consult to the actual procedure Dr Friedmann made every part of the journey informative and reassuring. I experienced minimal discomfort and was amazed at how quickly I healed.
Ben
Dr. Friedmann was welcoming, professional, and reassuring throughout my entire treatment. My initial consultation came very soon after my first enquiry and Dr. Friedmann's diagnosis was both clear and thorough. He took the time to answer all my questions and discussed the possible treatment options. During the procedure itself, Dr. Friedmann was calm and kept me informed of what he was doing - this was very important as I was nervous. The aftercare was excellent and Dr. Friedmann was incredibly reassuring
Rob
In the short while I’ve been taking the medication I really have noticed an impact! Thank you Dr Friedmann
Natalie C
Fantastic experience from start to finish. Dr Friedman is very professional, knowledgeable, thorough and reassuring. I received great attention and care. Thank you
Vilma B.
I had heard a lot about advanced treatments for acne, and I went to Dr Friedmann because I wanted to understand more about it – his practical down-to-earth manner and expert explanations and advice debunked the myths, and gave me the confidence I needed – he understands people as well as he understands treatments, and his care has been exemplary.
Helen C
He is easily the best dermatologist I have ever been to – his expertise and professionalism have been a revelation!
Peter B
I had suffered intermittent bouts of quite bad acne over many years, and never really found a long-term solution with any of the specialists I had used – until my husband introduced me to Dr Friedmann, whose advice and treatment has been superb – thanks to him my acne is now under control and I have my life back again.
Catherine B
After struggling with acne and various dermatologists for decades, it was a revelation. He demonstrated a real expertise in the subject and designed a tailored treatment and maintenance package that has transformed my life during the 10 years I have been seeing him – only wish I had discovered Dr Friedmann 40 years ago!
Emily R
Dr Adam Friedmann is open and easy to talk to – and most importantly has a genuine real understanding of the debilitating effects of acne on the sufferer, and he makes you feel at ease and comfortable at all times.
Anna W
Dr Friedmann is by far the best dermatologist I have ever had – his excellent understanding manner combined with a pragmatic approach and real expertise and professionalism is unique in my experience.
Richard T
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone – in fact I already have several times to both friends and my wife – and all of them agreed with me that they wouldn’t now go to anyone else.
Mark D
In earlier life I had seen a number of dermatologists for persistent and recurring acne problems, but over 10 years ago I started with Dr Adam Friedmann, and have stayed with him ever since – in my opinion, he’s the best in his field.
James L
Throughout every step of this process, Dr Friedmann put me at ease and filled me with confidence and the clinic and his nursing team were absolutely fantastic. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Dr Friedmann to anyone
Fiona G
Dr Friedmann very quickly treated the isolated area with liquid Nitrogen. This was pain free and I was advised that the dark patch would simply turn a little bit darker over the next few days and would come off by itself. I just had to lightly moisturise during this healing stage and for a little while afterwards to help the process. This happened exactly as promised and now, several months later there is absolutely no mark or trace of the dark patch on my cheek.
Carol M
After a thorough examination, Dr Friedmann diagnosed the mark to be a harmless solar lentigo and explained it was nothing to worry about and is commonly caused by sunlight.
Linda P
I had a small dark area of skin on my face for a few years and after noticing it getting gradually larger and worrying about possible skin cancer, I went to see Dr Friedmann at his Harley Street clinic.
Margaret C
Dr Adam Friedmann’s sensible, practical, and expert advice and treatment for my acne was transformative, giving me back my confidence in my personal and business life – I can’t thank him enough!
Charles B
Dr Friedmann listens patiently and his extensive skill and experience is clear from his careful questioning and advice. He’s unhurried approach is reassuring. He has been clear that he remains available to support me by email or telephone on my ongoing treatment for eczema when a further consultation is not necessary.
Paul L
My husband and I have been patients of Dr Adam Friedmann for years – he is by far the best dermatologist I have ever seen, and the highest recommendation I can give him is that if ever my daughter or her grandchildren needed advice or treatment in that area, I would insist they go to him!
Caroline B
I have longstanding and severe rosacea which at times flares up. During flare ups it is painful and affects my confidence. Dr. Friedmann was able to see me at short notice during my recent flare up. There is an easy process for booking and payment. Dr. Friedmann was kind and reassuring and most importantly incredibly knowledgeable. He created a treatment plan with both short term and long-term outcomes. My skin has already settled and is feeling and looking much better. I would highly recommend Adam and his team.
Sarah C
Professional, knowledgeable, and caring. Definitely the best dermatologist in Cheltenham as far as I’m concerned!
James R
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Julie B
I was seen quickly and given excellent treatment. Can’t thank the team enough.
Emma L
Dr Friedmann and his team were amazing! My skin has never been better. Highly recommend ProDerm!
Sarah T
Worried About a Skin Lesion?
Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. If you notice a suspicious lesion, don’t wait, book a consultant dermatologist review today.
Quick Links
Dermatology Services
Contact Us
Our Clinics
Worried About a Skin Lesion?
Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. If you notice a suspicious lesion, don’t wait, book a consultant dermatologist review today.
Quick Links
Dermatology Services
Contact Us
Our Clinics
Worried About a Skin Lesion?
Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. If you notice a suspicious lesion, don’t wait, book a consultant dermatologist review today.
Quick Links
Dermatology Services
Contact Us
Our Clinics