Skin Cancer Checks
Skin Cancer Screening – Skin Checks
You can book with our dedicated skin cancer GP’s at Robina Town Skin Cancer Clinic or Skin Cancer Clinic to have a full-body skin cancer check or a particular mole or lesion assessed. Whether you are an existing patient of our practice, or a brand new patient, visiting your experienced local GP for skin checks is a convenient alternative to seeing a dermatologist. Skin cancer diagnosis rates for GP’s and dermatologists are very similar.
What is a skin cancer check?
During a full-body skin check, the skin is examined from head-to-toe, looking for suspicious lesions. If there is anything on your skin that looks abnormal or irregular, we take a closer look using a dermatoscope, to decide whether further investigation is needed. A dermatoscope can magnify the skin to analyse moles and lesions in much greater detail.
While a skin cancer might be visible in the form of an abnormal mole, skin tag or blemish; quite often more can be lurking beneath the skin’s outer layer making it impossible for the human eye to detect without assistance.
Skin Cancer Imaging
A dermatoscope increases visibility of a mole or lesion by 40x magnification to identify even the most minute areas of concern that can’t be seen by the naked eye. On request, photos of moles and lesions can be taken using a camera and dermatoscope and used to look deep into the many layers of skin. Images are then stored on your clinical record to allow for monitoring over time. This additional level of service allows for future monitoring and assessment of moles. Imaging the mole can help with a clinical diagnosis, although a biopsy may be recommended.
What to expect at your skin check
During a skin check, patients routinely strip down to underwear to allow the doctor to fully examine the skin. Abnormal moles and lesions can also be found in areas of the skin that are not regularly exposed to the sun and it’s important to let your doctor know if there are any suspicious moles underneath your underwear. Patients may request a nurse chaperone, this means a nurse is present in the room during the skin check. Please contact Reception to request this when you book your appointment.
How often should you get a skin check?
If your last skin check was clear, your doctor will usually request you have your skin examined once per year. If you have previously had a skin cancer, your doctor will probably request to see you more frequently. High risk patients are classified as previously having a skin cancer or melanoma and if you fall into this category your skin should usually be examined every 3-6 months.
If you have a spot that has changed or there is something you are concerned about, we suggest you do not wait for the full 12-months and instead book an appointment as soon as possible.
There are some changes you can look out for when checking your own skin. This list is not exhaustive, but can be helpful reminder of things to keep an eye on. If you notice any of these changes, we suggest you book an appointment with one of our skin cancer doctors:
- Moles that bleed or weep
- Moles becoming scaly, rough or ulcerated
- Moles that increase in size
- Moles that change from brown to black in colour, or vary in colour
- Mole or spot that becomes raised or lumpy
- Moles that itch
- Moles or spots that look different to others
You can book an appointment with any of our GP’s for a basic skin check or to have a specific mole checked. For full body skin checks and skin cancer surgery, book an appointment with Dr Brian Larter at Skin Cancer Clinic.
Why Choose RTMC
Caring, friendly doctors
New patients welcome
Easy parking
Quality accreditation
Unique expertise
Patient-centered care
Your Appointment
Use online bookings to make your next appointment quickly and conveniently, any time of day. If your appointment type is not available online, please phone the practice to book.
Robina Town Centre
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