Skin Cancer Clinic – Surfers Paradise
Worried about your spots and moles? Wondering whether you’ve got a skin cancer? Did you know that 2 out of 3 Australians will be diagnosed with a skin cancer by the time they are 70? Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer, followed by squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma – which is the most dangerous skin cancer due to its propensity to grow quickly and spread to other parts of your body. A skin check is the best way to find and treat skin cancers early, before they cause disfigurement or spread.
Chevron Advanced Medical incorporates skin checks using Dermengine for the imaging, tracking and diagnosis of skin cancers. We are located in central Gold Coast on Chevron Island, Surfers Paradise. Book your comprehensive skin cancer check with us for peace of mind.
What does a skin cancer check involve?
A skin check starts with your doctor taking a medical history to get an understanding of your risk of skin cancers. You will then be asked to remove clothing, except for underwear. Your doctor will check your whole body from head to toe using a dermatoscope. Potential skin cancers or suspicious lesions requiring monitoring will be imaged using a camera attachement as shown below.
A skin check starts with your doctor taking a medical history to get an understanding of your risk of skin cancers. You will then be asked to remove clothing, except for underwear. Your doctor will check your whole body from head to toe using a dermatoscope. Potential skin cancers or suspicious lesions requiring monitoring will be imaged using a camera attachement as shown below.
What do the images look like?
An example of a dermoscopic record is shown below. This was a very small (3mm in size), early melanoma that was detected on the patient’s left upper arm during a routine skin check.
An example of a dermoscopic record is shown below. This was a very small (3mm in size), early melanoma that was detected on the patient’s left upper arm during a routine skin check.
Which appointment should I book for my skin check?
This depends on the type of appointment you book for your skin check:
- Skin cancer check (full) – this is a thorough skin check from head to toe. Any suspicious spots are recorded using Dermengine. Skin checks should be done every 1 to 2 years depending on your history.
- Skin cancer check (brief) – this is suitable if you have a few spots of concern that you would like assessed and imaged.
- Skin check with total body photography (mole map) – this is ideal for patients with a history of melanoma or dysplastic nevus syndrome. Mole mapping may be done every 2 to 5 years depending on your history. Skin checks should be done in between these periods.
- Standard consult – if you’ve been asked by the doctor to return for repeat cryotherapy, you can book a standard consult.
Can you “freeze” sun spots during the skin check?
Yes, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen is used during the skin check, at no extra cost.
Do you biopsy lesions during the skin check?
If there is enough time, punch or shave biopsies may be done during the skin check. Excisional biopsy of a suspected melanoma takes a lot longer, so these are booked on a separate day.
If there is enough time, punch or shave biopsies may be done during the skin check. Excisional biopsy of a suspected melanoma takes a lot longer, so these are booked on a separate day.
How often should I get a skin check?
A skin check is generally recommended every 1 to 2 years. If you have a history of melanoma, a skin check should be done every 3 to 12 months. If any borderline suspicious lesions are found, your doctor might recommend to get surveillance photography of these lesions in 3 months time (spot check).
Should I get a mole map?
If you have many moles, dysplastic nevus syndrome or a history of melanoma, your doctor might recommend total body mole mapping in addition to a skin check.
How much does a skin check cost?
- Skin check (full) = $120 (Medicare rebate is $75, gap cost is $45).
- Skin check (brief) = $85 (Medicare rebate is $39, gap is $46).
- Skin check and Mole map combined session = $270 (rebate $110, gap $160).
- Cryotherapy = no additional fee.
If a skin cancer is diagnosed, can you cut it out?
Yes we can. You can choose to get your skin cancer cut out at Chevron Advanced Medical, or at another clinic or specialist (dermatologist or plastic surgeon) of your choice. Excisions that are done in clinic, use local anaesthetic. For very large excisions requiring general anaesthesia, you will be referred to the hospital (either publically or privately depending on your preference).
How much does a skin excision cost?
The fees below apply to Dr Andrew Thant and Dr Mae Tun only.
- Punch or shave biopsy = small gap.
- Excision of skin cancer = $120 gap.
- Cosmetic removal of non cancerous skin lesions = $180 gap.
How can I book a skin check?
- You can book online with Dr Andrew Thant or Dr Mae Tun. Alternatively, feel free to call us on 07 55388811.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required. You can access your Medicare rebates without a referral.
How can I prepare for my skin check?
- Do not wear make up.
- Do not wear nail polish, otherwise a subungual melanoma can be missed.
- Do not wear spray tan.
- Please wear underwear.
Dermoscopic tracking of a melanoma before excision.