With all our sun in Australia we are at risk of developing skin cancer. The earlier this is detected the easier the treatment and better the outcome.
We provide regular mole and skin clinics to prevent, detect and treat skin cancer before it becomes advanced. All our doctors are trained in the early detection and the accurate and early treatment of skin cancer. Please avoid the use of nail polish and make-up prior to skin & mole clinic appointments.
Factors that increase a patient’s risk of skin cancer include pale skin colour, increasing age, long periods of time spent outdoors, history of repeated sunburn, higher density of moles, a personal history of skin cancer and a family history of melanoma.
Skin cancers are extremely varied in appearance, which is why a skin check with a trained professional is the best way to detect skin cancers early. In general, sores that fail to heal, lesions that change size or shape, lesions that stand out and look different, or even new lesions should all prompt patients to be clinically reviewed.
How often a patient has their skin checked is dependent on their previous history and overall risk. Generally regular skin checks are not commenced until adulthood. However, skin cancers can occur at any age, so if you have a skin lesion that is concerning to you, it is worthwhile having it checked.
Treatment for skin cancer varies and is dependent on the type of skin cancer. Some skin cancers can be effectively treated with locally acting creams or cryotherapy. Other skin cancers require a surgical excision procedure either to remove a sample of the lesion to clarify the type of skin cancer or to remove the whole lesion.
Our doctors perform excisions safely on site in our fully fitted out treatment room at Southern Regional Medical Group and if a lesion is identified during a skin check that requires excision, we’ll organise a time for you to return so this can be performed. Sometimes, where a lesion requires a complex procedure, we can refer you directly to a specialist.
