Before your appointment, you may be asked to complete a brief questionnaire. This usually takes around 10 minutes, so arriving slightly early can be helpful.
For a full skin examination, patients are typically asked to remove clothing down to their underwear. It is recommended that skin is free from makeup or tinted products where possible.
During the Skin Check
Your doctor will examine your skin using a dermatoscope. This is a handheld device that provides magnification and lighting to allow closer inspection of moles and skin lesions. The examination is non-invasive and typically painless.
In some cases, photographs of specific spots may be taken for monitoring over time.
If a Spot Requires Further Assessment
If a lesion appears atypical, your doctor may recommend further investigation. This may include:
- A biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample)
- Complete excision of the lesion
These procedures are usually performed under local anaesthetic. In some cases, a separate appointment may be required.
Samples are sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available within several days, depending on the provider.
After Your Skin Check
If a skin cancer is identified, treatment recommendations will depend on the type, size, and location of the lesion, as well as individual patient factors.
Management options may include surgical removal or other treatments where clinically appropriate.
Early detection is associated with a wider range of treatment options and improved outcomes.
Follow-Up
Your doctor may recommend regular skin checks based on your individual risk factors. The frequency of follow-up can vary from several months to a number of years.
Important Information
This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised medical advice. A consultation is required for assessment and diagnosis.
