Skin Checks
Looking for a skin check doctor?
Queensland has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Luckily, if found early, most dangerous moles and spots can be removed which significantly reduces your risk of developing skin cancer.
If you’ve noticed a change in a mole or spot, don’t risk your health. Get your skin checked by your GP at SmartClinics – especially if you are over 40 and/or have sun-damaged skin or multiple moles and freckles.
While most GPs can perform skin checks, there are many doctors at SmartClinics who have further qualifications in this field and can also remove any dangerous spots or moles, saving you a trip to the Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon.
See the list below to find a SmartClinics doctor near you who is highly experienced in performing skin checks.
Skin checks and excisions
If you’ve noticed a change in a mole or freckle, it’s essential to have it checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you feel as though your skin is healthy, we recommend seeing a GP for a skin check at least once per year, especially if you live in a warm climate and spend time in the sun.
While you can attend any SmartClinics location to have a skin cancer check, you may like to see the list below of doctors at SmartClinics experienced in this area.
Please note that bookings for skin checks require a longer appointment, so we ask that you please call the clinic reception to make a booking rather than booking online.
Mole & skin tag removal
Some GPs are highly skilled in the removal of moles and skin tags. See below for a list of GPs at SmartClinics who provide these services. If you are in Brisbane, you might like to visit Dr Zeeshan Rahim. If you live in Cairns, our Smithfield clinic has highly specialised skin cancer detection equipment and a number of experienced Skin Doctors. Otherwise, call your local SmartClinics Family Medical Centre and ask our friendly reception team who is the best GP to see for your particular needs.
How to check your own skin…
While the doctors at SmartClinics encourage everyone to have an annual skin check, it’s also essential to check your own skin once a month so you’ll notice quickly if any changes occur. Here’s how to perform a skin check on your own body and what to look out for.
As Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, the ABCDE of melanoma detection is a useful guide when checking your skin.
Asymmetry
If you “draw a line” through a mole and the two halves do not match (meaning it is asymmetrical) this is a warning sign for melanoma.
Border
The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven as opposed to a smooth border.
Colour
A mole that has a variety of colours is a warning sign. This includes different shades of brown, tan, black, red, white and blue.
Diameter
Melanomas usually have a large diameter (as a rough guide 6mm) however if detected early they can be smaller.
Evolving
If a mole starts to evolve or change in any way, like shape, colour, itch or bleed, this could be a warning sign and you should see your doctor.
8 WAYS TO AVOID SKIN CANCER
- Examine your skin every month
- See your GP for a skin exam every year
- Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm
- Cover up with clothing including a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Never use tanning beds
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours
- Keep newborn babies out of the sun
- Do not use sunscreen on babies under 6 months of age.
WHAT’S YOUR RISK LEVEL?
Everyone is at risk of skin cancer, however you’re at greater risk if answering yes to any of these questions below:
- Do you have fair skin, fair or red hair and blue eyes?
- Do you have a large number of moles?
- Do you work outdoors?
- Do you spend your weekends or holidays in the sun?
- Have you ever used solariums, sunlamps and sun beds?
- Is there a previous history of skin cancer is your family?
- As a child, did you spend a lot of time in the sun?
Book your annual skin check at your local SmartClinics Medical Centre now.
Doctors Offering Skin Checks
