Why Lancing?
Lancing is a straightforward treatment carried out by one of our specialists in a sterile outpatient setting. With just a small incision, this treatment is minimally invasive whilst offering immediate relief of pressure or irritation.
With NHS coverage for concerns that are deemed “cosmetic” now withdrawn, you can still access professional, safe treatment locally, quickly and affordably, without referral or waiting lists. Our lancing treatment offers a same-day solution for select suitable lesions, with clear after-care guidance.
Key Benefits
- Walk-in / Walk-out appointment. Treatment takes as little as 45 minutes
- Precise and targeted, reducing unnecessary trauma to the surrounding skin
- Immediate relief for fluid-filled lesions
- Can leave the skin surface smoother once healed, showing visible improvement from raised lesions
- Minimal risk of infection or scarring if aftercare is followed
- Minimal downtime with most people able to resume normal activity immediately
- Affordable pricing with long-lasting results
What to Expect - Your Lancing Journey
1
Consultation / Diagnosis
- We begin with a detailed visual assessment of your skin concern.
- You'll receive a full explanation of your treatment options, expected outcomes, and any risks - with supporting images or video examples.
- You'll leave fully informed and confident before making your decision.
2
Quote & Plan
- You'll be given a fixed, transparent quote before treatment begins, no surprises.
- It is very rare that you would need multiple sessions; however, if applicable (e.g., phototherapy aftercare or further treatment for multiple lesions), you'll know the exact cost per visit.
3
Treatment Session
- The skin is cleansed, and a local anaesthetic (if required) is applied to ensure comfort.
- Treatment times typically vary between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on whether anaesthetic needs to be applied. We allocate extra time so you never feel rushed.
- Using a sterile micro-blade or fine needle, the clinician makes a tiny opening in the lesion.
- For milia, the small keratin plug is gently released.
- For small cysts, the contents may be drained or expressed.
- The area is then dressed, and you’ll receive tailored instructions for home care. Healing usually occurs quickly, though the exact time varies by skin type and lesion depth.
- You can typically drive or return to normal activity straight away.
- Visual: use a short 10–15 second clip showing the calm, precise treatment of a cyst or milia.
4
Aftercare & Healing
- All our treatments here at Cambridge Contour Clinic conclude with personalised aftercare advice, tools and products specific to the treatment received.
- Over the first 1-2 days, pain and tenderness will steadily decrease. Light, clear or blood-tinged drainage is normal and mild redness and swelling can be expected. Keep the area clean and re-dress daily as instructed.
- New tissue forms, appearing pink or red, typically within 2 weeks, with most small wounds closing within 2–4 weeks; deeper ones may take longer.
5
Follow-Up & Results
- A complimentary review at 4 weeks ensures the area has healed as expected.
- Due to this treatment's precise nature, in most cases, only 1 treatment is required.
What Is Lancing? & How It Works
Lancing is a minor clinical procedure used to open and release the contents of small, benign skin lesions such as milia or certain small cysts.
A sterile, fine-tipped blade or needle is used to create a tiny opening on the surface of the lesion. Through this small access point, the trapped keratin or fluid material is removed by carefully manipulating the lesion and the immediate surrounding tissue. Because the incision is very small and precise, the surrounding skin is preserved.
In some cases (for example, with cysts that have a capsule or "sac"), our specialist may recommend a secondary step such as removal of the lining or additional treatment to minimise recurrence. Lancing is performed only after a consultation confirms that the lesion is benign and that this method is the most appropriate option.
Lancing Frequently Asked Questions
Will lancing remove the lesion completely?
In many cases, it will provide immediate relief and significant improvement. However, for some lesion types, the risk of recurrence exists. We'll assess this at the consultation.
Will there be a scar?
Good after-care helps minimise any possible visible scarring. We offer advice specific to your circumstances post-treatment.
How long will it take to heal?
The surface will heal within days; full internal healing may take a few weeks - we will give you personalised advice during your consultation.
What if the lesion returns?
If it recurs, we will reassess and may recommend a different option (for example, microplasma or cryotherapy) depending on the lesion type and patient's preference.
Is the procedure painful?
The area will be anaesthetised with a topical/local anaesthetic and should not be painful.
Am I suitable for treatment?
Factors such as pregnancy or breastfeeding, chronic illnesses, autoimmune disorders or skin conditions are some, but not all, factors that need to be assessed for suitability. Our specialists will guide you through any contraindications during your consultation. You must also be over the age of 18
