Mr Howard Peach

I qualified from Bristol in 1989, completing a skin cancer fellowship at the Sydney Melanoma Unit, Australia and then in 2003 I was appointed as a consultant Plastic Surgeon in Leeds. I have been actively involved here in establishing a comprehensive skin cancer service for the region, including sentinel node biopsy, isolated limb infusion, diphencyprone service and electrochemotherapy. I have been the lead clinician for the regional melanoma service for over 18 years and am a core member of the regional specialist skin cancer service, which manages people who have non-melanoma skin cancer. I was instrumental in developing a national skin cancer fellowship. I have been a trustee and on the scientific board for Melanoma Focus, a melanoma charity, for over 10 years

I provide a comprehensive skin cancer service, from initial diagnosis of skin lesions, management of skin cancers non-surgically and surgically, to regular follow up and dermatoscopic mole monitoring. I am able to provide surgical procedures under local or general anaesthetic, removing either the primary lesion or dealing with most secondary recurrences that may occur.

I continue to participate in national and international trials, currently this includes the MelMarT II excision margins trial. I have successfully organised several national and international teaching conferences, which have had excellent feedback. I have published over 30 peer reviewed papers and presented at national and international meetings. I continue to develop regional and national guidelines for the management of skin cancer, including Merkel Cell Carcinoma and the Melanoma Focus supported guidelines on Ano-Uro-Genital mucosal melanoma. I helped organise, chair and then publish a well received national consensus document on sentinel node biopsy for cutaneous melanoma. I am currently an invited committee member for NICE, developing updated guidelines for cutaneous melanoma.

Whilst I am trained in aesthetic surgery, my practice both NHS and private is principally focused on skin oncology. However I use my plastic surgery training to aim for excellent cosmetic results, following any surgery required to manage a person’s skin cancer.

I strive to ensure the individuals I look after, receive excellent compassionate care and high quality surgical results. I pride myself in taking the time needed to explain the diagnosis, the surgery and expected outcomes. I will organise appropriate investigations and where needed, onward referrals of my patients with specific issues, to colleagues with knowledge outside of my areas of expertise.