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0207 386 0464
Skin Abscess Treatment in London
What is an Abscess?
An abscess is a painful collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses can occur under the skin or in soft tissue. They often form when a cyst becomes infected .
Learn more about cysts .
Symptoms of an Abscess
- Red, swollen lump that feels tender and warm
- Pain or throbbing in the affected area
- Pus or fluid discharge (sometimes foul-smelling)
- Fever or feeling unwell (if infection spreads)
Abscess vs Cyst – What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Abscess | Cyst |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Infection leading to pus collection | Blocked gland or duct |
| Pain | Usually painful | Usually painless unless infected |
| Treatment | Incision & Drainage + dressing changes | Excision (surgical removal) |
| Healing time | A few weeks with dressing changes | Usually heals faster after removal |
Types of Abscesses We Treat
- Standard skin abscesses – from £595
- Hidradenitis suppurativa abscesses – from £595
- Pilonidal abscesses (near the tailbone) – from £950 (usually requires a colorectal surgeon)
❌ We do not treat internal or oral abscesses.
Abscess Treatment – How It Works
The most effective treatment for an abscess is a minor surgical procedure called Incision & Drainage (I&D) .
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area.
- A small incision is made to release the pus.
- The wound is packed with a special dressing (e.g., Inadine or Aquacel).
- No stitches are used – the wound heals from the inside out.
Aftercare & Healing
Dressings need to be changed every 2-3 days. Healing usually takes 2-4 weeks. We provide full aftercare advice and dressing support to ensure optimal recovery.
Treatment Benefits
Time
Recovery
Results
Duration
Abscess Treatment Results
Abscess Treatment Reviews
Abscess Treatment Costs
| Description | Prices (from) |
|---|---|
| Consultation - Aesthetic Doctor/Plastic Surgeon/Dermatologist | £75* |
| Standard abscess incision & drainage | £595 |
| Hidradenitis suppurativa abscess | £595 |
| Consultation - Consultant Colorectal Surgeon | £295 |
| Pilonidal abscess (with colorectal surgeon) | £950 |
Abscess Treatment Costs
Prices are a guide to the costs and the exact price can only be determined once the doctor has examined you in person. Most abscesses don’t need histology testing. However, in certain circumstances if the doctor thinks it is necessary, then they will discuss this with you and the related costs.
Standard/Hidradenitis Suppurativa Abscess Consultation
The cost of consultation with our Aesthetic Doctors/Plastic Surgeons/Dermatologists is £75. This is redeemable against the cost of treatment carried out on the same day.
Pilonidal Abscess Consultation
Consultations are with our team of leading Consultant Colorectal Surgeons are £295. This fee is not redeemable against the cost of treatment carried out on the same day.
Please call 0207 386 0464 OR email [email protected] for help.
FAQ's
Abscess Removal FAQ: Questions & Answers
Sometimes small abscesses can drain naturally, but most need incision and drainage to fully resolve and prevent recurrence.
No, antibiotics alone are not enough as they cannot drain the pus. Surgical drainage is essential.
Healing can take 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the abscess.
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so it should not be painful. Mild soreness after is normal.
If the abscess is not fully drained or underlying causes are not treated, it may recur.
