Armpit Ultrasound Cost in London: What You'll Actually Pay
If you've noticed a lump, swelling, or persistent discomfort under your arm, one of the first questions after "should I get this checked?" is usually "what will an armpit ultrasound cost?".
A private scan gives you a fast, radiation-free answer without waiting weeks for a GP referral but pricing varies more than most people expect. This guide breaks down the typical armpit ultrasound cost in London, what's included in a quality scan, and how to make sure you're not paying for extras you don't need.
What an armpit ultrasound looks at
An armpit ultrasound (also called an axilla or axillary ultrasound) uses high-frequency sound waves to image the soft tissue under your arm.
A consultant radiologist glides a small probe across the area to build a detailed, real-time picture of the lymph nodes, blood vessels, fat, muscle, sweat glands, and any lumps or fluid collections. It's completely non-invasive, involves no radiation, and typically takes 15–20 minutes.
The scan is commonly used to investigate:
- A palpable lump or thickening
- Swollen or persistently enlarged lymph nodes
- A cyst, abscess, or lipoma
- Changes after breast surgery or implant work
- Pain, tenderness, or restricted arm movement without a clear cause
How much does an armpit ultrasound cost in London?
Private armpit ultrasound cost in London generally ranges from £180 to over £700 depending on the clinic, the seniority of the person scanning, and whether a written report is included. A quick way to think about the market:
| Provider type | Typical price | What's usually included |
|---|---|---|
| High-street imaging chain | £180–£240 | Scan by a sonographer with a report followed separately |
| Consultant Diagnostic Clinic | £250–£350 | Specialist consultant radiologist scan and report same day |
| Hospital outpatient department | £500–£700+ | Scan and report plus hospital admin fees |
At Lanthorn Clinic in London, an armpit ultrasound is carried out and reported by a consultant musculoskeletal or breast radiologist on the day of your appointment so what you pay covers both the imaging and the diagnostic interpretation, with no add-on report fee.
Why prices vary so much
Three things drive most of the price differences you'll see when comparing armpit ultrasound cost across London:
Who scans you. A consultant radiologist charges more than a sonographer because they can interpret findings, adjust the exam in real time and answer your questions there and then. For anything involving a possible lump, that direct expertise usually saves a second appointment.
Whether reporting is same-day. Many chains scan quickly but send images off for reporting, which delays your result by 3–7 days. Same-day consultant reporting costs more but is means you can get answers faster.
Location and overhead. Central London clinics carry higher rents than suburban providers, which can add to the overall cost.
Call us to find out more at 02030077757
FAQs
Does health insurance cover the cost?
Most major UK insurers cover diagnostic ultrasound with an appropriate GP or specialist referral. Self-pay is often faster and avoids opening a claim on your policy for something minor, but can still be referred back for further management.
How quickly can I get results?
At a consultant-led clinic, you'll usually leave with a verbal explanation and receive the written report by email within 24 hours. At Lanthorn, it is usually within the same day.
Can the scan tell me if a lump is cancer?
Ultrasound characterises lumps as reassuring or suspicious, but at Lanthorn we can offer a biopsy if needed for a definitive cancer diagnosis. Most armpit lumps turn out to be benign cysts, lipomas, or reactive lymph nodes, but the consultant can explain whether it's worth confirming this.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book a private armpit ultrasound directly and self-refer.
How long does the appointment take?
Plan for about 30 minutes door-to-door. The scan itself is 15–20 minutes.
Book your armpit ultrasound at Lanthorn Clinic
At Lanthorn Clinic in central London, an armpit ultrasound is carried out and reported by a specialist consultant radiologist with no referral, no waiting weeks for results and an all-inclusive price.
If you've noticed a lump, swelling or unexplained discomfort under your arm and want it looked at properly by someone who can answer your questions there and then, we can usually offer an appointment within 1 week.
