Metvix PDT (photodynamic therapy) is a new, effective treatment for certain types of pre-cancerous lesions of the skin (actinic keratoses or commonly called sun spots and Bowen’s disease) and non-melanoma skin cancers called basal cell carcinoma.
This treatment combines a high rate of efficacy with a good cosmetic outcome. It offers a good alternative treatment to traditional surgery. While it does not replace surgery in the treatment of Bowen’s disease and superficial basal cell carcinoma, it offers an alternative for patients who are unsuitable or not keen on surgery and is a good option for treatment of lesions on difficult sites like the face and ears or when a good cosmetic outcome is of great concern.
Treatment with Metvix PDT is carried out by your dermatologist and it involves 3 simple steps. You may have more than one lesion treated at one time.
Our dermatologists at the Specialist Skin Clinic have more than 60 years of combined experience and have extensive experience in the management of skin cancer and mole removal.
Dr Cheong Wai Kwong, past President of the Dermatological Society of Singapore (2000 – 2005), is experienced with the use of various lasers and IPL for treating acne, acne scars, pigment problems such as freckles and age spots and removal of tattoos and birthmarks as well as Exilis® for non-invasive face lift. He is also experienced in the evaluation of moles and total body skin examination for skin cancers.
Dr. Phay Ken-Lin is an accredited Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Chapter of Dermatologists. Her practice encompasses all aspects of general dermatology pertaining to children and adults. She is highly regarded in the field of cosmetic dermatology and has special interest in the treatment of acne and acne scars and pigment disorders.
Dr Neoh Ching Yin is an accredited dermatologist with the Ministry of Health, Singapore and the Chapter of Dermatologists, Singapore. She evaluates and treats all general medical and surgical conditions of the skin, mucous membrane, hair and nails in both adults and children. She is well versed in the use of dermoscopy, total body skin examinations and skin biopsies for the assessment of skin cancers and is trained in algorithm of treating skin cancers.
Your visit to a dermatologist is an important step to achieving a healthy skin. Your dermatologist is familiar in the evaluation and treatment of skin cancer and mole removal and he/she will be the best person to advise you on your condition. To make the most of your appointment, you may want to take note of the moles, growths or lesions that you have noted during your own self-examination.
Your visit with your dermatologist begins much as a typical visit to your family physician. Remember to share your medical history, medications, health problems, etc. Quality care begins with good communication and a good dermatologist will take time to listen to explain the treatment options.
Metvix PDT uses a different approach to the treatment of actinic keratoses and basal cell carcinoma in comparison to conventional methods. No surgery is involved. It is a simple, non-invasive treatment that consists of the application of Metvix cream to the lesion(s) followed by exposure to light from the specifically designed Aktilite® lamp (red light source). The abnormal cells in the lesions absorb the active ingredient from the Metvix cream. When exposed to the light from the Aktilite® lamp, a chemical reaction occurs which destroys only the abnormal lesion; healthy skin surrounding the lesion is not affected and left unharmed.
You may experience a stinging or burning sensation during the light exposure. If you become too uncomfortable, your doctor can pause the light treatment for a short while if necessary.
Painful and burning sensations at the treatment site during and after light exposure are the most common side effects and may last for few hours.
After your treatment, you are advised to keep the area clean. It is also recommended that you protect the treated skin from direct sun for 2 days.
Mild to moderate redness, swelling and inflammation are normal after-treatment responses which usually resolve soon after treatment but may persist for 1 – 2 weeks.
Metvix is selective for abnormal cells leaving the surrounding healthy skin unharmed. This means that it has a very low potential for causing scarring compared with many other treatments.
For treatment of pre-cancerous skin lesions (actinic keratoses), 1 session of Metvix PDT is generally recommended. For treatment of basal cell carcinoma and Bowen’s disease 2 sessions with an interval of 1 week in between sessions are usually recommended.
Our fees for first consultation starts from $90 - $180. Depending on the type of procedure required, financial counselling will be provided.
We value your time and that is why we strongly advise that you make a prior appointment with our staff so our dermatologist can meet you on an allocated time. Please call or email us for an appointment.
or Send Us Your Enquiry
1 Grange Road #06-04
Orchard Building
Singapore 239693
Tel: +65 6734 1411
Fax: +65 6235 5900
Email: enquiry@specialistskin.com.sg
Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Sat: 8:00am - 1:00pm
Closed on Sundays and public holidays
We are conveniently located at 1 Grange Road #06-04 Orchard Building Singapore 239693. Location is assessable via Somerset Road, making a right turn into Grange Road.
If you require further directions to our office, please call us at +65 6734 1411.
