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Molluscum contagiosum Treatment

Same Day Availability

Yes. Available same day for those who have received a quote.

Local anaesthetic

Cream/Injection +/- Gas and Air

Appointment length (approx.)

Main Procedure - 30 to 60 minutes. Follow Up - 30 minutes (if needed).

Recovery & aftercare

Continue with your day, minimising physical activity. Learn more.

Fees

From £550. Learn more.

Locations

Journey Overview

For patients who have filled out a pre-appointment questionnaire before booking and received a quote will be available for same day hyfrecation treatment.

#1 Pre-Appointment Questionnaire

Your journey starts by filling out our pre-appointment questionnaire. If you are interested in having your treatment on the same day as your consultation, we will ask you to submit photos along with the form.

#2 Receive a Quote

Once you have submitted your questionnaire and photos, our clinical team will review them. Following this review, we will provide you with a quote for the procedure ahead of your appointment.

#3 Consultation

During your in-person consultation, we will assess the area and discuss the hyfrecation procedure with you. This is the dedicated time to address any of your questions. We find that many patients have already been diagnosed elsewhere and are primarily seeking an effective treatment option.

#4 Procedure

If you decide to proceed, the treatment can typically be performed on the same day. We use local anaesthetic (either a numbing cream or an injection) to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Once the area is completely numb, the lesions are carefully removed using hyfrecation, which leaves behind smooth skin with minimal downtime.

#5 Follow Up

One follow-up appointment within 4 weeks is included with your treatment. This allows us to assess the healing process and manage any remaining lesions. After your procedure, we will also provide you with an aftercare pack that includes skin wipes and gauze.

Our Method of Treatment

While Hyfrecation has been an established treatment method for over 80 years, it is less well-known than Laser in the UK for treating skin lesions. Hyfrecation is a minor surgical procedure that uses electrocautery to burn off skin lesions, resulting in their immediate clearance. Carried out under local anaesthesia, Hyfrecation is a very safe and effective procedure. To achieve the best results, a touch-up may sometimes be needed a couple of weeks later.

The procedure leaves a small, raw area which typically heals within a few days. As with any medical procedure, it is essential to be aware of possible side effects. Potential short-term side effects include bleeding, bruising, soreness, and infection. Long-term side effects are rare but can include changes in skin colour, scarring, the development of neuralgic pain, or a loss of sensation in the treated area.

Learn more about hyfrecation here. And click here for hyfrecation aftercare.

 

Eligibility

Best For

Cosmetic removal due to impact on confidence, lifestyle, or relationships. Medical reasons like frequent bleeding, rapid growth, or itching.

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

Safe to perform during pregnancy.

Menstruation

Safe to perform during menstruation/bleeding.

Prior/Repeat Use

Yes, treatment is suitable even if you have had prior, unsuccessful procedures like laser.

Do NOT use if

You have an active genital skin infection (e.g., herpes outbreak, eczema). Your diabetes or blood pressure is not under control.

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Avoid/Discuss if

E.g. your lesions keep coming back.

Patient Feedback

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I've been trying to get my coil replaced since May on the NHS, but they couldn't do it as my threads have been cut too short. Waiting lists for NHS gynae appointment are insane (~1 year) so after some deliberating I decided to go private. I chose Clarewell Clinics as they had great reviews and also compared to other clinics, were a lot more reasonably priced. I booked an ultrasound guided coil removal in hopes that Dr. Elena would be able to do it without needing to go down a more invasive route. Thankfully, she did it with ease and also replaced it with a Mirena coil (on the NHS they had told me my uterus was too small so had to go with Kyleena). It was such a more pleasant experience than when I did it on the NHS. Dr. Elena and Yemi kept me comfortable and eased my anxiety the whole way through the process. The pain relief options were also better- air and gas was a lifesaver! I could still feel the pain but it was milder and so much more bareable than the insertion I had 5 years ago. It was over quickly and I was sent away with a heat pack to ease the cramping afterwards. Thank you so much Dr Elena, Yemi and also Ryaan for being a friendly face in the reception. I would thoroughly recommend Clarewell Clinics :)
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K S
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I had a mirena replacement with Elena, supported by Ryan. I have previously had bad experiences, but the approach here and the pain management meant if I had to come back next week for another one, I’d do it. I arrived feeling sick and shaking but Ryan put me at ease, Elena did a fantastic and quick job and the gas and air made a huge difference, I barely felt anything. The whole team were friendly and welcoming and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. I had an injection and she didn’t wait for pain to come to manage it, it was managed upfront. I’m so incredibly grateful, thank you. Ryan and Elena are a fantastic team
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P R
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Mr Aaron Williams saw us while we were visiting London from the US and he treated us well, with compassion and professionalism. Seeing him helped put us at ease for the rest of our trip, which ended up being great.
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E R
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Incredible care and treatment. Can't thank Dr Jayadeva and his team enough who put me at great ease and looked after me. Wonderful clinic will be recommending.
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A L
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I had a copper coil removal yesterday with Dr Praveen Jayadeva. If you are at all nervous about an iud fitting or removal, I couldn't recommend this clinic enough. I had a very painful experience at a different clinic that made me really scared about the removal procedure. They really take the time to talk you through what's going to happen and what type of pain relief options you have. They were so friendly and comforting (both the doctor and the amazing assistant) and procedure was so quick. They even offer you tea and biscuits afterwards. Really fantastic and professional clinic!
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I had a coil done here. It was an amazing experience, really worth the money paid. The doctor took the time to go through the process and all the options in detail. I felt prepared and well cared for. I had numbing gel and spray and also gas and air. The actual coil fitting was less then 5 minutes. I felt a little discomfort, but the gas and air managed this very well. The team were all very supportive and caring. My coil lasts for 5 years, I'm very happy with my experience. Could not recommend enough.
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Dr. Malu was able to help me fully understand and put into context my concerns surrounding HPV, which at times can feel like a confusing subject. His ability to listen and understand my concerns with empathy and without judgement was very helpful. I am grateful for the expertise and care given by Dr. Malu and the staff at his clinic. The team provides a very professional and comfortable experience.
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A R
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Fantastic and caring team from booking process, reception, appointment and billing. Went for a coil removal. They had ultrasound and gas for pain management (when I checked it seemed they were the only clinic that offered this!!). 100% recommend. Especially if you’re getting a coil, want to make sure you do it with a top professional team. I inserted it elsewhere and it was a barbaric procedure for me, insanely painful and just awful. So save yourself unnecessary trauma/pain
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I had such a great experience at Clarewell Clinic. I was extremely nervous about the pain before my copper IUD fitting, but Dr Praveen Jayadeva explained everything clearly throughout the appointment and made me feel completely comfortable. I was given pain relief and the fitting was honestly so much easier than I expected — I barely felt any pain at all. Yasmin was also incredibly lovely and reassuring throughout. I’m genuinely so happy I chose Clarewell and would definitely recommend them. 10/10.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum?

The main symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum include small clusters of firm, raised spots known as mollusca that appear on the skin. These lesions are usually round with a characteristic small dimple in the middle, typically pink or red, measuring around 2–5mm in size. They appear smooth and shiny, resembling pearls.

While these spots are not painful, they can sometimes be itchy.

Mollusca can appear anywhere on the body; however, in children, they tend to manifest around the face, neck, chest, arms, or legs. In adults, they typically emerge around the genitals, anus, groin, buttocks, abdomen, or thighs. Lesions are rarely found in the mouth, on the soles of the feet, or palms of the hands.

When do symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum typically occur?

In the case of Molluscum contagiosum, the incubation period is typically 2–8 weeks. However, it is important to note that lesions can manifest as early as one week after exposure or may even take up to six months to appear.

Can I have Molluscum contagiosum without any symptoms?

Infection with Molluscum contagiosum may occur without the presence of characteristic lesions. Research indicates that some individuals possess antibodies to the molluscum virus despite having no recollection of ever experiencing mollusca. In certain cases, the lesions may be very small or subtle that they are unnoticable.

What causes Molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a pox virus that can be transmitted through:

  • Close direct contact, including touching the skin of an infected person.
  • Contact with contaminated objects belonging to the infected person, such as towels, flannels, and clothing.
  • Sexual contact, including sexual intercourse.

Once infected, the virus can be spread to other areas of your own body by picking, scratching, or squeezing the lesions.

Who is at a higher risk of getting Molluscum contagiosum?
  • People with a partner who has Molluscum contagiosum
  • Children between the ages of 1–10
  • Those who live in a tropical climate
  • People with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV or cancer)
  • Those with atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • People who participate in contact sports or swimming
Is Molluscum contagiosum an STI?

Although Molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is not generally considered a sexually transmitted infection due to its ability to spread via simple skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual.

Can Molluscum contagiosum be cured?

Molluscum contagiosum can be cured, but it may take some time. The condition usually goes away on its own within 6 to 12 months, but treatment can help speed up the healing process.

How is Molluscum contagiosum treated?

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) can be treated in a few ways:

  1. Hyfrecation: This is the most effective method of treating MC.
What benefits are there to treating Molluscum contagiosum?

Treating Molluscum contagiosum has several benefits. It can help prevent the spread of the virus to others, reduce the risk of complications such as secondary infections, and minimise scarring or skin changes that may occur as a result of the condition.

Is there anything I can do at home if I have Molluscum contagiosum?

You can keep the affected area clean and dry, avoid scratching or picking at the lesions, and avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

It is important to note that home remedies may not be as effective as medical treatments, so it is recommended to consult with a clinician for proper evaluation and treatment.

How is Molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?

Molluscum contagiosum can be diagnosed clinically in over 99% of cases. Your clinician will take a history, examine your skin, and will be able to provide a diagnosis without needing any additional investigations or tests.

What is the difference between Genital warts and Molluscum contagiosum?

Genital warts are skin outgrowths triggered by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), whereas Molluscum contagiosum is caused by the Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The appearance of genital warts is typically more 'cauliflower-like', exhibiting an irregular shape, and tends to be softer and more fleshy. In contrast, MCV lesions are rounder, flatter, and firmer, featuring a distinctive central spot.

When is the best time to book my Molluscum contagiosum treatment?

The best time to book your Molluscum contagiosum treatment is as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to consult with a clinician to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your specific case.

How can I prepare for my appointment?

If you have booked in for a consultation to assess whether being treated is the best decision for you, we recommend to gather any relevant medical history, including any previous skin conditions or treatments, in order to have a thorough discussion . If you have any specific concerns or questions, it may be helpful to write them down.

If you have booked in for your treatment, following an assessment and a quote being offered, we recommend that you do the following before your appointment:

  • Have a shower on the day of your appointment to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Have a meal in the morning of the procedure.
  • Take 2 paracetamol tablets, 1 hour before your appointment time for pain relief.
  • Trim pubic area so that the lesions can be easily seen (where appropriate). Do not shave.
  • We recommend that you drive or use public transportation to attend your appointment and to get home. Cycling is not recommended.

Fees

Genital Dermatology Consultation - £150

Genital Dermatology Consultation + Main Procedure + Follow Up - From £550

Local anaesthetic (by injection or cream depending on the lesions) is also included in the price. The following conditions have fixed prices:

  • Fordyce Spots - Patch Test (£350) + Main Procedure (£750 penile and/or £750 shaft)
  • Pearly Penile Papules (PPP) - £750-1000
  • Vestibular papillomatosis - Patch Test (£350) + Main Procedure (£750)

 

Follow up (within 4 weeks) - 1x Included

By default, patients 1x follow up visit is included in the quote we offer you. In some complex cases, we may offer an additional follow up visit (this will be clarified in your quote/consultation).

Payment Options

Self Pay - by Cash/Card, but not American Express

Health insurance - via a self reimbursement policy

ClarePay/Klarna - a payment plan to split the cost over 4 payments.

Next Steps

Care In Clinic

Same day hyfrecation treatment for patients with a pre-appointment quote.

Care Online

Start or continue your care online.

Page last reviewed by Ms. Magdalena Nowacka on 13 June 2023 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.