What is Histology?
Histology (also called skin pathology) is the study of tissue under a microscope to detect disease.
For skin cancer, it is the only way to confirm a diagnosis with 100% certainty.
Here’s how it works:
- A dermatologist performs a skin biopsy to remove a small sample (or all) of the suspicious lesion.
- The sample is sent to a specialist laboratory.
- A pathologist examines the cells for signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), Melanoma, or other skin conditions.
The resulting histology report guides the next step in your treatment, ensuring no uncertainty in your care.
How We Perform a Biopsy
A biopsy is a quick, minor procedure performed in our clinic.
- First, the area around the lesion is numbed with a local anaesthetic, so you feel no pain.
- A small portion, or in some cases the entire lesion, is removed using precise dermatological techniques.
- The tissue is carefully prepared and sent to an accredited pathology lab for microscopic examination.
Most biopsies take less than 20 minutes, and you can return to normal activities soon after. A very small scar may result, but we always aim to keep this minimal.
Our Histology Process: 4 Small Steps
Your journey with us follows our established, caring, and professional 4-step process:
- Biopsy A suspicious lesion is removed in our CQC-registered clinic.
- Analysis Expert pathologists examine the sample under a microscope to provide a definitive diagnosis.
- Results & Discussion We contact you as soon as results are ready, explaining them clearly and compassionately.
- Next Steps Based on your results, we recommend the right treatment plan, which may include procedures like BCC excision.
Why Histology is Crucial
- Definitive Diagnosis The only test that confirms if a lesion is cancerous.
- Cancer Type Identification Differentiates between BCC, SCC, and melanoma.
- Margin Assessment Ensures all cancer cells have been removed.
- Guideline-Endorsed Recommended by NICE UK as the gold standard for skin cancer diagnosis.
- Peace of Mind Eliminates uncertainty, allowing you to move forward confidently.
Benefits of Professional Histology Management
✔️ Accurate & Definitive: The only way to get a 100% certain diagnosis.
✔️ Seamless Process: We manage the entire process, from biopsy to results.
✔️ Expert Communication: We explain the results in a clear, compassionate way.
✔️ Timely Results: We provide a fast turnaround on your diagnosis.
✔️ Professional Care: The biopsy is performed in a CQC-registered clinic with the highest standards of hygiene.
Why Choose Revitalise London
We’re trusted for personalised, medical-grade skincare.
Nathalie Emmanuel
Actress - Game of Thrones Star
Had a wonderful experience with Dr Ken and his staff with my forehead lipoma removal. Thorough in planning before the procedure and so far, l've had a great experience with aftercare. When I had any questions there was always someone available to answer them.
Our Medical Team
Meet the experienced professionals who will provide your care
Dr. Ken Otouke
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
GMC Number: 6087496
A pioneer in Plastic Surgery and specialising in Robotics, Dr Ken is a core member on the Board of Micro Surgery for the United Kingdom. Dr Ken had worked his way to the pinnacle of NHS duties but not before developing his skill set in the USA, Italy and Canada.
Dr. Nancy Abdel-Rehman
Dermatologist
GMC Number: 7679511
Dr Nancy Abdel-Rehman is a highly skilled Dermatologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions. She specialises in advanced dermatological procedures, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies such as short and long pulse lasers to deliver exceptional care.
Jonny
Medical Assistant
Jonny is a dedicated Medical Assistant who provides essential support to our medical team. With a focus on patient care, he ensures our clinical operations run smoothly. Jonny assists with preparing patients for procedures, maintaining clinical records, and ensuring a comfortable and professional environment. His hard work and commitment are invaluable in upholding the high standards of care at Revitalise London.
Our Accreditations
Trusted by healthcare regulators and professional bodies for maintaining the highest standards of medical care and patient safety.
🛡️ Regulated & Certified Healthcare
All treatments are performed by GMC registered doctors in our CQC regulated clinic, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Histology
No, a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area completely, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
Most results are ready within 7–10 working days. We contact you immediately once we have them.
A small scar may remain, but our dermatologists use precise surgical techniques to minimise its appearance.
We’ll discuss your diagnosis in detail and arrange treatment promptly, often within the same clinic network.
Yes. A clinical diagnosis is based on a visual examination; histology confirms it at a cellular level for 100% certainty.
Many private insurance plans cover skin biopsy and histology, and we can assist with paperwork and authorisation.
Yes, most people can return to work and daily activities immediately, though we recommend keeping the biopsy site dry for 24 hours.
You’ll be given simple aftercare instructions, usually involving keeping the area clean, dry, and covered until healed.