Receiving abnormal cervical screening results can feel overwhelming, but modern treatments like LLETZ offer effective solutions with minimal disruption to your daily life. LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone), also known as loop excision or loop diathermy, is a gold-standard outpatient procedure used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix before they potentially develop into cervical cancer.
If you’re based in London and seeking expert care, understanding your treatment options and the benefits of private gynaecological care can help you make confident, informed decisions about your health.
LLETZ treatment becomes necessary when cervical screening (smear test) detects abnormal cell changes on your cervix, typically caused by persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These changes, known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), are graded from CIN1 to CIN3 depending on severity.
Most women don’t experience symptoms from abnormal cervical cells themselves—they’re usually detected through routine screening. However, you might notice irregular bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or post-menopause. These symptoms warrant prompt investigation.
The procedure prevents these precancerous changes from progressing, with treatment success rates exceeding 95% when performed by experienced gynaecologists. Early intervention through LLETZ significantly reduces cervical cancer risk whilst preserving fertility.
Following abnormal screening results, you’ll be referred for colposcopy—a detailed examination using a magnifying instrument. During this appointment, your gynaecologist applies special solutions to highlight abnormal areas and may take small biopsies. If significant cell changes are confirmed, LLETZ treatment is typically recommended.
LLETZ is usually performed as a quick outpatient procedure taking 15-20 minutes. Under local anaesthetic, your consultant uses a thin wire loop heated by electrical current to remove abnormal tissue precisely. The excised tissue is sent for laboratory analysis to ensure complete removal and rule out any unexpected findings.
Most women experience only mild cramping during the procedure, similar to period discomfort. You can usually return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, though you’ll need to avoid swimming, tampons, and intercourse for approximately four weeks whilst your cervix heals.
NHS vs Private LLETZ Treatment: Key Differences
Aspect | NHS Pathway | Private Care |
Waiting time | 6-12 weeks from referral to colposcopy; further wait for LLETZ if needed | Often within 1-2 weeks for full assessment and treatment |
Appointment flexibility | Limited appointment slots during standard hours | Evening and weekend appointments available |
Consultant continuity | May see different clinicians at various stages | Same consultant gynaecologist throughout your care |
Environment | Busy hospital setting | Private, comfortable clinic environment |
Results discussion | Often via letter or brief telephone call | Detailed face-to-face consultations with time for questions |
If you’re exploring effective options for LLETZ treatment, Mr Saurabh Phadnis in London offers expert private assessments and tailored treatments with minimal waiting times and comprehensive support throughout your journey.
Choosing private gynaecological care in London for your LLETZ treatment offers distinct advantages that extend beyond faster access. Continuity of care means you build a relationship with your consultant gynaecologist who understands your medical history, concerns, and individual circumstances.
Private consultations typically allow 30-45 minutes rather than the rushed 10-15 minute appointments often experienced in NHS settings. This gives you unhurried time to discuss your diagnosis, understand treatment options fully, and address anxieties about the procedure or fertility implications.
Waiting can increase anxiety when you’ve received abnormal screening results. Private care in London typically means your colposcopy and LLETZ can be completed within 1-2 weeks of initial consultation, compared to several months through NHS pathways. This prompt treatment not only provides peace of mind but ensures abnormal cells are addressed quickly.
London’s private gynaecology clinics offer appointments that fit around your work and family commitments, including early morning, evening, and weekend slots. Post-procedure follow-up can often be arranged via telephone or video consultation if you prefer, though face-to-face review remains available.
Your private consultant remains directly accessible throughout your recovery. Rather than navigating through reception teams and triage systems, you can contact your consultant’s team directly with any concerns about healing, bleeding, or results.
Most cervical cell changes result from persistent high-risk HPV infection, which is extremely common—around 80% of sexually active people encounter HPV at some point. In most cases, your immune system clears the infection naturally, but when it persists, it can cause cell changes that require treatment like LLETZ.
The actual LLETZ procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Including preparation and brief recovery time in the clinic, expect your appointment to last around an hour. You’ll need someone to accompany you home if you’ve had sedation, though local anaesthetic alone doesn’t require this.
Private LLETZ treatment offers significantly reduced waiting times, flexible appointment scheduling, consultant continuity throughout your care, and a less clinical environment. You’ll have more time to discuss concerns, faster access to results, and direct contact with your consultant’s team for aftercare support.
Private LLETZ treatment in London typically ranges from £800-£1,500, depending on whether colposcopy, biopsies, and follow-up appointments are included. Many consultants offer package prices covering your complete care pathway. Some private medical insurance policies cover LLETZ; it’s worth checking your policy details.
Most women return to work the next day and normal activities within 48 hours. You’ll experience watery or slightly bloody discharge for 2-4 weeks as your cervix heals this is completely normal. Avoid tampons, swimming, and intercourse during this healing period. Treatment success rates exceed 95%, with most women requiring no further intervention.
Abnormal screening results need prompt, expert attention, but they shouldn’t cause prolonged worry. LLETZ treatment is a proven, effective procedure that protects your cervical health whilst preserving fertility.
If you’re ready to take control of your health, book a private consultation with Mr Saurabh Phadnis in London. As an experienced consultant gynaecologist, Mr Phadnis provides advanced, compassionate LLETZ care tailored to you, with rapid access, personalised attention, and comprehensive support from diagnosis through recovery.
