Skin checks in Queanbeyan

Who should book

• A spot or mole that is new, changing or bleeding
• Many moles, or fair skin that burns easily
• A past skin cancer, or skin cancer in the family
• Years of outdoor work or sun exposure

Book a skin check consultation

If a biopsy is needed, an additional appointment may be booked. There may be a fee for the procedure.

What to look out for

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Get to know your skin and see your GP if you notice:

• A new spot, or a spot that looks different from your other spots
• A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
• A mole with an uneven edge or more than one colour
• A sore that doesn't heal, or a spot that bleeds, itches or becomes scaly

At your skin check

• Your GP asks about your skin history, sun exposure and any spots you're worried about
• For a full skin check, your GP looks at your skin from head to toe, including areas you can't easily see
• Spots are looked at closely with a dermatoscope, a magnifying light that doesn't hurt
• Your GP explains what they find and when to have your next check

If a spot needs a closer look

Your GP may recommend a biopsy, where a small sample or the whole spot is removed under local anaesthetic and sent to pathology. If a biopsy is needed, an additional appointment may be booked, and there may be a fee for the procedure. Your GP will go through your results with you.

Getting ready

• Make a note of any spots that are new or have changed
• Wear clothes that are easy to take off, and remove nail polish and make-up if you can
• Bring details of any past skin cancers or skin procedures

Protect your skin

Slip on clothing, slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses when the UV index is 3 or above. Cancer Council: sun safety

Cost

See applicable fees section