Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow abnormally, usually from too much sun exposure. Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world because of our strong UV radiation.
Protecting your skin from the sun and having regular skin checks are the best ways to prevent and detect it early.
SKIN CANCER
Signs and symptoms of skin
cancer include:
- A new growth on the skin that might look like a mole, a bump or a scab.
- Changes to a mole or freckle, such as getting bigger or changing colour.
- A sore on the skin that won’t heal.
- Bleeding of a skin lump
- Itch or pain around a skin growth.
- A rough patch on the skin.
Full body skin checks
We provide comprehensive full-body skin checks, carefully examining your skin for any signs of skin cancer.
During your visit, we may also discuss your personal risk factors and advise on practical sun protection measures.
Any investigations or treatment needed, will then be discussed with you and arranged accordingly.
Procedures performed on the day or at a later date include: cryotherapy, diathermy, biopsy, or surgical excision.
FAQ’S
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I wear for a full skin check?
We check your skin from head to toe! So, please wear comfortable clothing that is easy to get off and on.
Please avoid face make-up if possible as this affects our ability to assess your face. If needed, we suggest you bring make-up to apply after the appointment.
Will I have any treatment performed on the day?
This depends on your skin. Cryotherapy is often performed at the time of examination. Smaller procedures such as diathermy or biopsies may be performed on the day. Larger procedures such as excisions will generally be rebooked for a later date.
Will there be any down-time or required follow-up?
If cryotherapy or diathermy is performed, the areas treated may take 1-2 weeks to recover. Please let us know if you have an important event coming up at the start of the consultation.
If a biopsy is performed, there may or may not be a follow-up 1-2 weeks later.
Are there any additional costs if a treatment is performed?
There may be an additional cost for treatments performed on the day. Some of these may only attract an additional Medicare charge for which you will be rebated, but others such as biopsies may have an extra out-of-pocket cost. Please ask us prior to the consultation if you have further questions.
