A B O U T

Dr Rhonda Meys

Dr Rhonda Meys is a UK-fellowship-trained Consultant Dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. She is the principal Mohs surgeon at the Queen Victoria Hospital, Sussex, and is a core Dermatologist of the London Scar Clinic. She treats NHS patients for skin cancer and general dermatological conditions, and performs Mohs micrographic surgery as well as complex dermatological surgery and reconstructive procedures.

She has a special interest in cosmetic dermatology, scarring and laser procedures. She treats all skin conditions, including rashes, acne, skin infections, pigmentation, hair loss disorders, warts, moles and skin cancer.

She takes a personalised approach to clinical diagnosis and treatment, tailoring her care to each patient’s needs – including skincare, cosmeceuticals,

anti-ageing cosmetic treatments and pigmentation.

She has written book chapters on dermatological surgery, pigmentation and cosmeceuticals. She has published numerous research and clinical papers in peer-reviewed journals. She is on the Executive Committee of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, a special interest subgroup of the British Association of Dermatologists and leads the annual National Registrar Course for Cosmetic Dermatology.

As a Consultant Dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, Dr Meys has taken on roles as an undergraduate teaching lead and has taught and supervised registrars, fellows and students. She teaches and supervises International Dermatology Diploma and MSc students and is an examination question writer for the Dermatology Specialty Certificate Examination. 

DERMATOLOGY
EXPERTISE

A B O U T

Dr Meys obtained her undergraduate degrees (BMedSci and MBBS Hons) in Australia before moving to the UK in 2000 and undertaking postgraduate medical training.

Her Dermatology specialist training was completed in 2014 in Edinburgh and London including at:  Chelsea and Westminster, University College London, the Royal London and the Royal Free.

She was awarded her Higher Degree, a Medical Doctorate MD (Res), in Dermatology by Imperial college London in 2013.

She completed a UK accredited Mohs and Laser Fellowship at the prestigious Guys and St Thomas' Hospital in 2019.

Dr Meys has also worked as a Consultant Dermatologist in private clinics in Dubai, developing interests in private and general dermatology, skin cancer, laser treatments,

acne scarring, skin surgery, and cosmetic dermatology.

Dr Rhonda Meys

TRAINING

Dr Rhonda Meys

SPECIAL INTERESTS

SKIN CANCER — NON-MELANOMA

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, most commonly caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning devices.

The two most common types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), collectively known as non-melanoma skin cancers. BCC accounts for around 70–80% of all skin cancers and originates in the basal cells of the epidermis. It tends to grow slowly and almost never spreads, but if left untreated it can cause significant local tissue damage. SCC begins in the squamous cells of the skin’s outer layer. While it also has a high treatment success rate when caught early, it is more likely than BCC to spread to other parts of the body — though this remains relatively uncommon.

Sun exposure is the leading cause of both BCC and SCC, particularly in fair-skinned individuals. In Australia, where UV levels are extremely high, around two-thirds of light-skinned people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. A similar risk applies to fair-skinned populations in the UK, although year-round UV exposure is generally lower. However, risk is increasing due to foreign holidays in sunnier climates and rising temperatures.

Early detection and prevention of skin cancer are vital. Sun protection and regular skin checks are key. Wearing sunscreen, using protective clothing, and avoiding sunburn can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

I am an expert in diagnosing and treating both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, and I manage complex cases in line with UK national guidelines, including through multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussions.

SKIN CANCER –– MELANOMA

Melanoma is a more serious form of skin cancer that arises from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes.

Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination followed by an excisional biopsy to remove the lesion and confirm histology and depth (Breslow thickness), which guides treatment.

Early-stage melanomas are usually treated with wide local excision, removing the tumour with a defined margin of normal skin and a cuff of deeper tissue. For deeper or higher-risk melanomas, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to assess potential spread.

Early detection is critical, as melanoma can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Regular skin checks are essential.

At the McIndoe Centre, we have a team of experts who diagnose and treat melanoma. Specialists from multiple disciplines collaborate through the MDT to provide expert advice and management for more complex cases.

TREATMENT OF NON-MELANOMA SKIN CANCER

First and foremost, accurate diagnosis of any lesion suspected of being skin cancer is essential. This may be made clinically or confirmed with a punch or shave biopsy to determine the type and depth of the lesion. Once confirmed as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), treatment options are discussed based on factors such as size, location, and risk of recurrence.

For pre-cancerous lesions (e.g. actinic keratoses or Bowen’s disease/SCC in situ), non-surgical treatments such as cryotherapy or topical therapies (e.g. 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod) may be suitable.

For established skin cancers, surgical treatment is usually the gold standard. The most common method is standard excision, where the cancer is removed with a margin of healthy tissue. In cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas (e.g., the face), Mohs micrographic surgery may be used, offering high cure rates with smaller margins required for removal. For deeper or more aggressive squamous cell cancer cancers, wider excision or referral for radiotherapy may be necessary.

Early detection remains key to successful outcomes

COSMETIC MOLE REMOVAL

Removed for cosmetic reasons.

Moles can be removed using surgical excision or shave removal, depending on the mole’s type, size, and location.

It is vital that a mole be assessed by a dermatologist to ensure it is non-cancerous. Almost all most moles that are removed should be assessed histologically by a pathologist.

The procedure is typically quick, and performed under local anaesthetic, and involves minimal downtime.

Most patients heal well with minimal scarring. However, it is important before considering removal to understand the risk and benefits of mole removal – and the likely outcomes in terms of scarring.

It is important to understand that mole removal does not necessarily reduce the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer in the future.

While melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can arise within an existing mole, studies show that the majority of melanomas (up to 70–80%) actually develop in previously normal skin. Regular skin checks and sun protection are essential.

All moles should be assessed by a dermatologist before removal to rule out any signs of cancer.

MOHS MICROGRAPHIC SURGERY

Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise surgical technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and is usually reserved only for cosmetically sensitive sites on the face.

The procedure involves removing the cancer and a margin of normal tissue. The tissue is then carefully examined using frozen sections and special stains under a microscope whilst the patient waits to check for remaining cancer cells. If the cancer has not been completely removed, then a further layer of tissue is taken and examined under the microscope. This process is repeated until all cancerous tissue is removed, meaning that the tumour is completely excised before reconstruction. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates (up to 99%) and is best employed for cancers that are larger, recurrent, or located in cosmetically or functionally important areas like the nose or eyelids.

I am an affiliate member of the American College of Mohs Surgery and have completed an accredited Mohs fellowship that is certified by the British Society of Dermatological Surgery (Mohs Member) and the European Society of Micrographic Surgery – and am members of both societies.

More information about Mohs surgery can be found here:

https://www.mohscollege.org/for-patients

ROSACEA

Rosacea is a skin condition that frequently affects people with lighter ‘Celtic’ skin. It is more common in those who are genetically predisposed and is linked with sun exposure. It can cause facial redness and flushing, visible blood vessels on the skin and small spots on the skin that may resemble acne. There are also forms in which the skin can be very scaly, dry and sensitive. The main forms of rosacea are:

- Erythematotelangiectatic (redness and flushing)

- Papulopustular (spots and bumps)

- A form where the skin thickens usually affecting the nose – called Rhinophyma.

It is important that a diagnosis is made of the correct clinical type of rosacea and also to exclude other conditions that can look like rosacea–such as acne or lupus.

Treatment of rosacea depends on severity and subtype and might include sun oritection, prescription and non-prescription topical treatments, oral treatments (for inflammation) or laser based treatments (for the redness and visible vessels).

ROSACEA AND LASER TREATMENT

Anti-redness laser treatments are effective to reduce facial redness caused by conditions such as rosacea, broken capillaries, and sun damage.

The most commonly used technologies include pulsed dye lasers (PDL), intense pulsed light (IPL) and KTP/Nd:YAG lasers.

These lasers all effectively target and gently heat visible blood vessels, causing them to shrink and fade over time without harming the surrounding skin.

Multiple sessions are usually needed for best results. Treatments are generally well-tolerated, with minimal downtime. There may be a little redness or swelling afterward.

Sun protection is essential before and after treatment to prevent further damage and maintain results. Effects are often long-lasting with tailored multimodal treatment.

I offer a full complement of laser based treatments for rosacea between the McIndoe Centre and my clinics in London.

ACNE

Acne is incredibly common and not only in teenagers but also in adults. It stems from overactive sebaceus glands producing excessive skin oil under the influence of hormones and defective follicular desquamation. Bacterial colonisation by Cutibacterium acnes and over-active inflammation also play a role. This can lead to papular acne – consisting of blackheads and whiteheads, pustular acne – pimples, and sometimes painful inflammatory cysts that are located deeper in the skin. It typically appears on the face but may also affect the neck, chest, and back.

Teenage acne is driven by hormonal changes during puberty and is very common.

Adult female acne tends to appear around the jawline and chin and is frequently linked to menstrual cycles or hormone imbalances.

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS-associated acne is persistent, often severe, and caused by excess androgens due to polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Nodulocystic acne is a severe form that involves painful, deep nodules and cysts, often leading to scarring.

Treatment is tailored to the patient's needs and does depend on the type and severity.

Options include prescription and non-prescription based topical treatments (such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid) and very careful attention to appropriate non-irritant skin care.

I also frequently discuss the use of prescription oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy (e.g. the oral contraceptive pill or spironolactone). Oral isotretinoin is reserved for severe or resistant cases and can be an extremely effective long term curative agent. Some laser and light based therapies are also options in some cases.

ACNE SCARRING

The first principle of treatment for acne scarring – is to effectively control and treat any residual inflammatory acne. Switching off ongoing active acne is vital in preventing new marks on the skin. Curing acne can be life changing for patients with persistent and difficult to control acne.

Treatments for acne scarring focus on improving skin texture, and colour and include treatments that can target hyperpigmentation and excessive redness. This can often be achieved with topical creams or devices including laser.

I use creams to target and control pigmented scars (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and red acne marks (post-inflammatory erythema). I also frequently use vascular laser treatments, such as pulsed dye laser (PDL) or intense pulsed light (IPL) to help address persistent redness after acne.

For dipped textural scars like rolling or boxcar scars, I can offer options such as microneedling, ablative laser resurfacing (e.g carbon dioxide laser) or using non-ablative lasers (such as, the Fibre laser or Thulium laser). I also use chemical peeling techniques such as TCA CROSS, subcision and other surgical methods and dermal fillers.

Multiple treatments are usually needed, and combining therapies usually gives the best results.

Sun protection is crucial throughout treatment to prevent worsening of pigmentation.

I offer a full complement of laser based treatments for acne scarring between the McIndoe Centre and my clinics in London

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN MOLE CHECKS

When checking moles for signs of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, we use the ABCDE rule to identify concerning changes:

A – Asymmetry:

One half of the mole does not match the other.

B – Border:

Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges may be a warning sign.

C – Colour:

Uneven colour with different shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue is suspicious.

D – Diameter:

Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be checked.

E – Evolving:

Any change in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms like itching or bleeding.

Regular skin checks and early detection are key

ANTI - AGING SKINCARE ADVICE

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ANTI - AGING SKIN TREATMENTS

Anti-aging skincare focuses on holistic skincare to prevent and reduce signs of skin ageing and improved skin wellness–such as reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.

Sun protection is the most important step—daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF helps prevent sun damage, which is the main accelerant of skin aging.

There are many other topical prescription and non-prescription ingredients that we can use to effectively limit the natural signs of aging in the skin

I tailor my skincare advice to each patient and include ‘actives’ that, with time and consistent use will have a visible difference in your skin.

A consistent routine, started early, helps maintain youthful, healthy-looking skin over time

SKIN PIGMENTATION DISORDERS

SKIN PIGMENTATION AND MELASMA

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation disorder that is worsened by sun exposure.

Effective control requires to protect from the sun diligently, including preventative daily sunscreen use in the correct amounts and using correct techniques.

The mainstays of treatment include camouflage makeup, and long-term use of prescription creams such as prescription retinoids, azelaic acid and–only if needed–hydroquinone as shorter courses.

Vitamin C or other anti-oxidants may be added later for antioxidant support.

Other treatments include oral tranexamic acid (low dose), and minimising hormonal triggers.

Chemical peels and lasers are options but carry risks like rebound pigmentation.

Over-the-counter treatments such as retinols and emerging agents like thiamidol and kojic acid may support but lack strong evidence compared to prescription options.

My approach is holistic and focused on treatment being very consistent and long-term as this is the most effective.

COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY

I am a specialist in Cosmetic Dermatology which focuses on improving the appearance and quality of the skin – or improving the cosmetic effects of medical skin conditions, such as pigmentation or rosacea related redness.

In a cosmetic dermatology consultation, we are able to address aesthetic concerns such as wrinkles and fine lines; acne scars (and other scars); hyperpigmentation or melasma; uneven skin tone or texture; age spots; or sun damage.

Common procedures include botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser therapy, microneedling, and targeted prescription skincare - such as retinoids - and treatments targeting scarring.

In a cosmetic dermatology consultation, I am able to focus on rejuvenation, anti-aging concerns, and maintaining a healthy, youthful skin quality. I combine my medical knowledge with aesthetic techniques to deliver safe, effective cosmetic results tailored to individual needs

SKIN RASHES & GENERAL DERMATOLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Skin conditions are among the most common health issues in the community, with up to 1 in 3 people affected at any given time and over 80% experiencing a skin condition during their lifetime.

I am able to see, diagnose, and treat skin rashes and general dermatological issues such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and fungal and viral infections. I am able to diagnose a wide range of skin conditions from allergies and infections to autoimmune disorders and environmental causes.

These conditions can all impact quality of life, causing discomfort, itchiness, and visible irritation. Many skin rashes may look similar but require different treatments, making accurate diagnosis by a qualified Consultant Dermatologist such as myself vital in order to identify the correct treatment.

Management of skin conditions may involve topical or oral medications, lifestyle changes and/or avoiding triggers. Early intervention and consistent supportive skincare tailored to each condition are important in preventing flare-ups and complications.

With correct diagnosis and treatment, most conditions can be managed.

As a Consultant Dermatologist, I am able to provide expert guidance to apply my knowledge and offer treatment options for skin conditions ensure appropriate care and long-term skin health.

"My wife was very anxious prior to the procedure,
the clinical staff performed exemplarily well in all aspects.

Grateful thanks to all,
in particular to Dr Meys, or as my wife prefers
to call her Doctor A-Meys-ing!"

Dr Rhonda Meys

DERMATOLOGY EXPERTISE

Dr Rhonda Meys

TRAINING

Dr Rhonda Meys

SPECIAL INTERESTS

DERMATOLOGY
EXPERTISE