A new or changing spot
Changes in size, shape or colour are reasons to seek medical assessment. Do not wait for every warning sign to be present.
Skin cancer check
Skin Cancer Check in Adelaide
Have moles, spots or skin changes assessed and understand any recommended next steps.
Request a skin checkWhat is a skin cancer check?
A skin cancer check involves examining moles, spots or lesions that may need further assessment. Your doctor reviews areas you have noticed yourself and may use dermoscopy for a closer look.
A spot may need monitoring, testing or referral. A skin check does not mean a diagnosis of cancer, and visual examination alone does not confirm every diagnosis.
Sun exposure or sunburn history
A history of significant UV exposure or sunburn can be relevant when your doctor assesses individual risk.
Personal or family history
Tell your doctor about any previous skin cancer and relevant family history. This can affect follow-up recommendations.
Skin that burns easily
Fair or sun-sensitive skin may be relevant to risk assessment. Skin cancer can also occur in people with other skin tones.
Moles that are difficult to monitor
Many moles or lesions in areas that are hard to see may warrant discussion of a broader examination.
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Changes worth having checked
The ABCDE guide can help identify features that warrant closer assessment, but it is not a diagnostic test. Some melanomas do not fit this pattern.
Bleeding, itching, crusting, a sore that does not heal, or a new or changing spot should be discussed with a doctor. A lesion can need assessment even when it is smaller than 6 mm.
- Asymmetry: the two halves look different.
- Border: edges appear uneven, blurred or notched.
- Colour: more than one shade or an uneven colour pattern.
- Diameter: around 6 mm or larger, or a smaller spot that is growing.
- Evolving: a change in size, shape, colour or height.
- Other changes: a growing firm bump, bleeding or a non-healing sore.
What happens during the appointment?
The extent of examination is discussed with you. Point out any spots that concern you, including changes on areas you cannot easily inspect yourself.
Medical history
Discuss sun exposure, previous skin cancers, family history, relevant medicines and any spots or changes you have noticed.
Skin examination
Your doctor examines the skin, including difficult-to-see areas where appropriate and with your consent.
Dermoscopy and documentation
A dermatoscope may be used to examine selected lesions more closely. Notes or clinical images may be recorded when appropriate.
Explanation of next steps
The doctor explains whether monitoring, testing or referral is recommended. You can ask questions about the findings and proposed plan.
How often is a skin check needed?
Follow-up frequency depends on individual risk factors and medical history. Your doctor can advise whether routine review is appropriate and how often it should occur.
Get to know your skin between appointments. If a new or concerning change develops, seek medical advice rather than waiting for the next scheduled check.
- There is no universal interval suitable for everyone.
- Personal and family history may change the follow-up plan.
- New or changing lesions may need earlier assessment.
- Some lesions are difficult to assess from a photograph alone.
If a spot needs further assessment
Your doctor will explain whether monitoring, biopsy or referral to an appropriate specialist is recommended. The next step depends on the lesion and clinical assessment.
A biopsy involves taking a tissue sample for pathology. Whether it is appropriate, where it can be performed and the relevant risks, fees and aftercare should be explained before you decide to proceed.
A normal examination does not guarantee that a new lesion cannot develop later. Report concerning changes and follow the agreed review plan.
Preparing for your visit
- Note the spots or changes you would like checked.
- Bring details of previous skin cancers and relevant family history.
- Have a list of medicines and relevant health information available.
- Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove where required.
- Discuss the extent of examination and any privacy or comfort concerns.
- Confirm current consultation fees and applicable Medicare information with the clinic.
Your consultation and consent
At W Medical Aesthetics, your doctor reviews the skin concerns you raise and explains any recommended further assessment.
You can discuss the areas to be examined, ask questions and request an explanation of the next step. Do not assume that every spot requires removal.
Dr Kee Sing Wong, MBBS, FRACGP
Registered medical practitioner
AHPRA registration: MED0000996242
Registration status: Registered
Fees, testing and referrals
Contact the clinic to confirm current fees and any applicable Medicare information before your appointment.
If testing, biopsy or referral is recommended, ask which additional fees or appointments may apply. Do not assume these are included in the initial consultation.
Questions about skin checks
How long does a skin cancer check take?
Appointment length depends on the extent of examination and whether any spots need closer assessment. The clinic can confirm the expected appointment time when you book.
Do I need a full body check?
A full skin examination allows review of areas that are difficult to check yourself. The extent of examination should be discussed with your doctor according to your history, risk factors and consent.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove is helpful. Your doctor may ask you to undress as needed for examination and should discuss this with you.
Can I have one mole checked?
You can ask about a specific mole or spot. Your doctor can advise whether a broader examination is appropriate based on your history and risk factors.
Take the next step
Arrange a skin cancer check in Adelaide
If you have noticed a new or changing spot, or want to discuss your individual risk, contact W Medical Aesthetics for an appointment.
Request a skin checkGeneral information only, not a diagnosis. A skin examination cannot rule out every skin cancer or predict future changes. Seek medical assessment for a new or changing lesion and follow your doctor’s advice.