Skin Checks

Skin Cancer screening will detect skin cancer lesions early, so it is important to regularly exam your own skin. Your dermatologist will explain how to do this. Skin cancer has a high cure rate when detected early.

One helpful tool is to take photographs of your skin (setting up a “Skin check” folder on your smart phone is a convenient way to store baseline images of moles on your skin in question) or to have professional photographs taken. This way you can simply compare your skin to your photographs. If there is a difference between your skin and your photographs in any area, then it is important to see your doctor.

Here in Australia, we have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Non-melanoma skin cancers in Australia are more common than any other cancer. It is for these reasons that self-examination is important and, if you are in an at risk category or have a spot concerning you, you should also be examined by a doctor.

This higher risk category includes:
  • Red hair
  • Type 1 skin (very fair) and aged more than 45
  • Type 2 skin (fair) and aged more than 65
  • Family history of melanoma in a first-degree relative in patients aged more than 15 years
  • More than 100 naevi (moles) and / or several atypical (larger more irregular) moles called dysplastic naevi.
  • Past history of melanoma
  • Past history of non-melanoma skin cancer or more than 20 solar keratoses (sunspots).
During the consultation:
Your dermatologist will first ask you a few questions about your past medical and skin history. This includes whether you have had a skin cancer before or whether any family member has had a skin cancer. They will also ask you whether you have any concerns regarding your skin. Your dermatologist takes a systematic approach to examining your skin. They wear magnifying loops and also use a dermatoscope to assist in the examination. Photographs may be taken. Dermatologists are highly trained in skin examinations and can recognise abnormal features rapidly and accurately. If a suspicious lesion is found, then your dermatologist may need to biopsy or completely remove the spot in question.

To Make An Appointment

Phone: (03) 9748 4411

Email: admin@westderm.net.au

Fax: (03) 9749 3398

To Make An Appointment

Phone:

(03) 9748 4411

Email:

admin@westderm.net.au

Fax:

(03) 9749 3398

Important Information About Your Appointment

Referral

A valid referral is required from you GP or other specialist to be able to claim Medicare benefits from your consultation.

A referral is not required to consult with our cosmetic dermal therapist.

Registration

A form registering your details, medications and previous medical problems will need to be completed on the day of your appointment prior to your consultation. Please remember to bring a list of current medications with you on the day.

Payment

Settling of your fee is required on the day of consultation.

We accept VISA and MasterCard, EFTPOS and cash payments

Significant cosmetic treatments require payment at the time the procedure appointment is made

Failure to keep appointments

Missed appointments will incur a cancellation fee.

Make up / Clothing

Please remember to remove make up for facial concerns (and remember to bring some makeup to reapply after the consultation)

For consultations where a skin check is required, wearing looser clothing may be helpful or alternatively there are patient gowns available for your use

New Appointments

These appointments can only be made for the Werribee and Richmond locations.

In Ballarat only review appointments are offered.

Cosmetic Treatments

Most cosmetic treatments are only offered at our Werribee location.

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