At Blackheath Family Medical Centre, patients have access to independent GPs who offer comprehensive skin checks and mole mapping services. Come in for a skin check to ensure your skin health is in check.

The following skin health services are available at this location:

• Standard Spot Check (1-3 spots of concern)
• Multi Spot Check (3-5 spots of concern)
• Comprehensive Skin Check
• Mole Mapping

Additionally, the GPs can perform minor skin surgeries, including:

• Cryotherapy
• Biopsies
• Excisions

The GPs at this location provide a full-service approach to skin checks. It’s not just about looking over your skin; it’s about checking and documenting skin concerns, tracking changes, and offering peace of mind over time. With regular visits, patients can return for follow-up checks to monitor changes in their skin health.

How often should I get a skin check?

It is recommended that individuals get a comprehensive skin check at least once a year, especially if you have a history of sun exposure, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer. However, if you’re at higher risk, your GP may recommend more frequent checks.

What should I expect during a skin check appointment?

During a skin check, your GP will examine your skin from head to toe, using a dermatoscope to closely inspect any moles, spots, or skin changes. They may photograph areas for future comparison or recommend a biopsy if anything looks suspicious.

How should I prepare for a skin check?

To prepare for your skin check:

• Avoid wearing makeup, nail polish, or sunscreen, as it can cover areas that need to be examined.
• Avoid getting spray tans before a skin check
• Wear loose-fitting clothes for easy access to your skin.
• Make note of any spots, moles, or changes in your skin that you’ve noticed, so you can point them out to your GP.
• Bring details of any family history of skin cancer if relevant.

What are the signs I should watch for between skin checks?

You should watch for any new or changing moles or spots on your skin. Pay attention to changes in colour, size, or shape, as well as moles that bleed, itch, or don’t heal properly. The “ABCDE” rule can help you remember what to watch for: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour changes, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving.

What is the difference between a spot check and a comprehensive skin check?

A spot check focuses on 1-5 specific spots of concern, while a comprehensive skin check involves a full assessment of your entire skin surface, identifying any areas that may need further attention or monitoring.

How long does a skin check take?

A skin spot check typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on the number of spots being examined and the level of concern. If further investigation or treatment is needed, the appointment may take longer. Whereas, a comprehensive skin check usually takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of moles or spots to be examined. Spot checks are typically quicker, focusing only on the specific areas of concern.

What is the next step if something suspicious is found during a skin check?

If the GP finds anything suspicious during your skin check, they may recommend a biopsy to further investigate. In some cases, they may suggest cryotherapy or excision to remove abnormal skin cells or growths.

What is mole mapping?

Mole mapping is a detailed documentation, including taking images of moles and skin spots across your body, allowing for monitoring and comparison over time to detect any changes in size, shape, or colour that might indicate skin cancer.

What is cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is a procedure where the GP uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove abnormal skin cells, such as warts or precancerous spots.

What happens during a biopsy?

During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from a suspicious area on the skin for further testing to determine if there are any abnormal or cancerous cells.

What does an excision involve?

An excision involves surgically removing a growth or lesion from the skin. This procedure is commonly used for removing skin cancers or abnormal moles.

Are skin checks bulk billed?

Each and every doctor who is located in the practice sets their own fees. In most case we attend to bulk bill concession card holders, Gold Card DVA, patients who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and children under the age of 16 will be bulk billed for standard consults. We do charge private fees for procedures – a full fee schedule is available at the front desk.

New patients to the practice or patients who have not been seen within the past 2 years will be charged a private initial consult fee. Subsequent visits may be bulk billed if eligible. Again this is dependent on the service provider you see.

Don’t wait—skin health is important! If you have any concerns or haven’t had a skin check in a while, contact our reception team on (02) 4787 8225 or use the online booking system by clicking the button below.