Skin Cancer Check
Crown Medical Skin Clinic offers skin cancer checks as part of a proactive approach to protecting your long-term skin health. Regular checks play an important role in identifying changes early, often before they become more serious or require complex treatment.
Skin cancer can develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms, making professional assessment an essential step in maintaining overall wellbeing.
Whether you have specific concerns or are simply due for a routine check, having your skin examined by a qualified practitioner provides clarity and peace of mind. Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment.
What is a skin cancer check?
A skin cancer check is a detailed clinical examination of the skin performed by a qualified medical practitioner to assess moles, spots and lesions for any signs of abnormality. The process goes beyond a surface-level review, using specialised tools such as a dermatoscope to closely examine pigmentation, structure and patterns within the skin.
Rather than focusing only on areas of concern, a skin cancer check typically involves a comprehensive, head-to-toe assessment, as skin cancers can appear in both sun-exposed and less visible areas. This thorough approach allows practitioners to identify subtle irregularities that may not be easily recognised without clinical training.
Importantly, a skin cancer check is not only about identifying suspicious lesions; it also helps establish a baseline record of your skin. This makes it easier to track any changes over time and supports more accurate comparisons in future visits.
Who needs a skin cancer check?
You may benefit from a skin cancer check if you notice:
- New moles or spots that appear after the age of 25
- A lesion that stands out or looks different from your other moles (often referred to as the “ugly duckling” sign)
- Changes in existing moles, including alterations in size, shape, colour or texture
- A sore or spot that does not heal after four weeks
- Unusual sensations in moles, such as itching, tenderness, burning or bleeding
Skin cancer checks are suitable for Australians of all ages and skin types, specifically those with increased sun exposure or a history of skin concerns. According to Cancer Council NSW, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer worldwide, with approximately two in three Australians diagnosed with some form of the condition during their lifetime. Even if you don’t fall into a high-risk category, routine skin checks remain an important part of preventative care. Contact us to schedule a visit today.
How often should you get a skin cancer check?
For most adults, it is recommended to have a professional skin cancer check once a year as part of routine preventative care. However, the right frequency and timing can vary based on your individual risk factors.
High-risk individuals may require more frequent checks, typically every 3 to 6 months. During your appointment, our practitioner will assess your individual risk profile and advise on an ideal recall schedule.
What happens during a skin cancer check?
A skin cancer check is a non-invasive, generally painless process performed in a safe and comfortable clinical setting. Knowing what to expect at each step can help you feel more at ease throughout your appointment.
Preparation
You will be asked to change into a medical gown, so your practitioner can examine your skin comprehensively.
In-depth visual assessment
Your practitioner will use a dermatoscope, a specialised device that provides magnification and enhanced lighting. This allows for a closer evaluation of the skin, including often overlooked areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, between the toes and other less visible regions.
Assessing moles and skin changes
During the examination, practitioners often apply clinical criteria, commonly known as the ABCDE guide, to evaluate moles and lesions. This includes assessing for:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Colour variation (such as different shades of brown, black, red or white)
- Diameter (larger or changing size)
- Evolving features, including changes in shape, texture or behaviour
If a spot requires further attention
If a lesion appears suspicious, your doctor will discuss the most appropriate next steps with you. This may include:
- Biopsy — A small sample of the lesion may be taken for further testing, typically performed under local anaesthetic.
- Monitoring — The area may be photographed and tracked over time to observe any changes.
- Targeted treatments — Depending on the diagnosis, treatments such as surgical excision, Mohs surgery, cryosurgery or photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be recommended to manage certain pre-cancerous or superficial skin cancers.
From start to finish, we’re here to support you and make the experience as comfortable as possible. We’ll take the time to explain any findings in a clear and approachable way, answering any questions you may have along the way. By the end of your appointment, you’ll have a better understanding of your skin and feel confident about any recommended next steps.
Why regular skin cancer checks matter
Explore the many benefits of undergoing thorough skin cancer assessments:
- Proactive insight — Earlier identification of concerning changes, often before they become visible or symptomatic.
- Simplified treatment — Greater opportunity for straightforward treatment, particularly when issues are addressed at an early stage.
- Targeted care — Minimised disruption to surrounding skin, as early intervention can reduce the extent of treatment required.
- Continuous monitoring — Consistent monitoring over time, allowing for more accurate comparisons at future appointments.
- Tailored advice — Informed decision-making, with precise clinical guidance suited to your individual risk profile.
- Peace of mind — Ongoing reassurance through regular assessment, helping you feel confident in your skin health.
Why choose Crown Medical Skin Clinic
Your first skin cancer check can feel overwhelming and daunting. At Crown Medical Skin Clinic, we take a thoughtful and transparent approach to skin assessments and treatments. We’re a dedicated extension of Crown Medical Figtree, a trusted practice serving the local community since 2014. Our clinic consists of experienced General Practitioners, Registered Nurses and allied health professionals, ensuring your skin health is supported through a collaborative and medically grounded manner.
Our medical practitioners oversee every stage, from initial assessment through to any recommended procedures and follow-up. This ensures your skin concerns are managed not in isolation but within the context of your overall health and wellbeing.
Schedule a skin cancer check today
If you have a spot of concern or would like a full-body skin check, contact Crown Medical Skin Clinic in Figtree today. We are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.