Mr. Onur Gilleard

Qualifications & Experience

Mr Onur Gilleard is a distinguished consultant plastic surgeon on the GMC specialist register. He previously held an NHS consultant post at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, specialising in skin cancer and microsurgical reconstruction. In 2021, Mr Gilleard transitioned from the NHS to dedicate himself fully to private practice, allowing him to focus exclusively on providing personalised, high-quality care to his patients. He is recognised as an expert in laser treatments, having conducted research and developed advanced treatment protocols using cutting-edge laser technology to optimise both clinical outcomes and cosmetic results.

Private cyst removal is more affordable than most people expect. At London Skin Clinic the initial
consultation is £100 and straightforward cyst removal is £400, with each additional
cyst removed in the same visit £250. There are no hidden extras, and most cysts are assessed and removed the same day. On
the NHS it’s free but generally only available when a cyst is painful, infected or affecting function.

What It Costs

Cyst removal pricing at London Skin Clinic
Item Price
Initial consultation £100
Cyst removal £400
Each additional cyst (same visit) £250

The price reflects a procedure performed by a GMC-registered consultant surgeon, not a technician, with the whole cyst
wall excised for a permanent result. Removing several cysts in one visit is more economical per cyst. Eyelid cysts are
priced differently — see the cost of eyelid cyst removal.

“The quote was very transparent and no hidden costs emerged at the end. I had an epidermoid cyst removed and was very pleased with the whole experience, from the swift communication to the suture removal.”

— Madalina G., verified Google review, London Skin Clinic

NHS vs Private

On the NHS, cyst removal is free at the point of use but offered only when there’s a clear medical need — a painful,
infected, rapidly growing or function-affecting cyst — usually via a GP referral, and removal purely for appearance is
generally not covered. Waits can be lengthy. A GP can sometimes drain a simple cyst, but draining leaves the wall behind
so it commonly returns; complete excision is the definitive option, explained in
drainage vs surgical removal.
Private treatment buys faster access, a consultant performing the procedure, and a choice of timing.

Is It Worth It?

For a cyst that’s painful, growing, catching on clothing, repeatedly getting inflamed, or simply bothering you, removal
usually is worth it — it prevents the cycle of flare-ups and the more difficult, costlier treatment an infected or
ruptured cyst can need. It also provides reassurance, as the removed tissue can be examined if there’s any doubt about
what it is. You can read the full procedure on our
sebaceous cyst removal page or
book an assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to remove a cyst privately in London?
At London Skin Clinic the consultation is £100 and straightforward cyst removal is £400, with each additional cyst in
the same visit £250. Most cysts are removed the same day under local anaesthetic, and the quote is transparent with no
hidden extras.
Can I get it removed free on the NHS?
Possibly, if it’s painful, infected, growing or affecting function and your GP refers you, but cosmetic removal is
usually not covered and waits can be long. Many people choose private treatment for faster access and to have a
consultant perform the procedure.
Is draining a cyst cheaper than removing it?
Draining may seem cheaper upfront, but because it leaves the cyst wall behind the cyst usually returns, often meaning
repeat treatment. Complete excision costs more once but removes the cyst permanently, so it’s frequently better value
overall.
Is it cheaper to remove several cysts at once?
Yes — additional cysts removed in the same visit are £250 each rather than the full £400, so treating several together
in one appointment is more economical per cyst, as well as more convenient.