Skin Cancer Checks

Early detection saves lives

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, making regular skin checks an important part of preventative healthcare. Most skin cancers can be treated successfully when detected early, before they have the opportunity to grow or spread.

Individual GPs consulting from Bronte Family Doctors with a special interest in Skin Cancer Medicine provide comprehensive skin assessments, dermatoscopic examination, skin biopsies and the treatment of many skin cancers and sun-damaged lesions in the practice.

Book your IUD discussion

30-45 MINUTE APPOINTMENT

We can assess for

  • Melanoma
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
  • Precancerous sun damage (actinic keratoses)
  • Atypical or changing moles
  • New or suspicious skin lesions
  • Other common skin conditions requiring assessment or treatment

How do I get an IUD insertion at Bronte Family Doctors?

Simple, supportive care every steop of the way

1. Discuss

Chat with our GP about your health preferences and options.

2. Insert or remove

Your IUD insetion or removal is done in-clinic.

3. Afte care

We provide aftercare advice and are here if you need us.

4. Ongoing support

We can review how you're going and answer any questions.

Comprehensive skin checks

A skin check is much more than a quick look at a few spots. During your appointment, your GP performs a thorough head-to-toe examination of your skin using a dermatoscope—a specialised magnifying instrument that allows detailed assessment of pigmented and non-pigmented skin lesions that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Where appropriate, clinical photographs and ongoing monitoring may be recommended to detect subtle changes over time.

Who should have a skin check?

Regular skin checks are recommended for anyone at increased risk of skin cancer, particularly if you:

  • Have fair skin or a history of significant sun exposure
  • Grew up in Australia
  • Have numerous moles
  • Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
  • Notice a mole changing in size, shape or colour
  • Have a new spot that won’t heal, bleeds or continues to crust

Even if you have no specific concerns, routine skin checks are an important part of preventative healthcare.

Skin cancer prevention

Preventing skin cancer is just as important as detecting it early. Your GP can provide personalised advice on:

  • Sun protection strategies
  • UV exposure
  • Self skin examinations
  • Monitoring changing lesions
  • Ongoing surveillance for patients at increased risk

Skin biopsies, procedures and skin cancer surgery

Many suspicious skin lesions and skin cancers can be assessed and treated conveniently under local anaesthetic at Bronte Family Doctors, avoiding the need for hospital admission.

Where appropriate, individual GPs perform:

  • Skin biopsies
  • Excision of suspicious moles
  • Skin cancer surgery
  • Cyst removal
  • Minor skin lesion excisions
  • Wound care and follow-up

Treatment of sun-damaged skin

Years of sun exposure can result in widespread sun damage, known as field cancerisation, where areas of skin contain multiple precancerous cells.

For suitable patients, treatment may include topical prescription medications such as fluorouracil to reduce precancerous sun damage and lower the risk of future skin cancers.

Non-surgical treatment options

Not every skin lesion requires surgery. Selected superficial skin cancers and precancerous lesions may be suitable for non-surgical management using topical medications or other evidence-based treatments where clinically appropriate.

Improving sun-damaged skin

Chronic sun exposure can contribute to fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, rough skin texture, fragile skin and age spots. Your GP can discuss evidence-based treatment options aimed at improving both skin health and cosmetic appearance.

What to expect at Bronte Family Doctors?

Step 1

Book a long consultation to discuss your options, history, and questions. 

Step 2

Your GP will advise on timing, pain relief and any checks required before insertion.

Step 3

You will be booked in for 30 minute appointment to allow for set up and recovery. The actual procedure itself typically takes around 5-10 minutes is performed in our clinic.

Step 4

We recommend follow-up 4-6 weeks after insertion to confirm the IUD is correctly positioned.

IUD removal

IUD removal is usually straightforward and can be done in a standard appointment. Whether your IUD has reached the end of its lifespan, you would like to try for pregnancy, or you want to switch contraception, your GP can remove it in the same clinic visit.

Fees and medicare

Appointment Gap Fee (after Medicare rebate) Total Fee
IUD Counselling Consultation $85–$155* $125–$240
IUD Insertion $230 $498
IUD Check (4–6 weeks) $85 $125

Frequently asked questions

For the most thorough examination, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing that is easy to remove, as a comprehensive skin check usually involves examining your skin from head to toe.

If possible, avoid wearing heavy or tinted makeup, particularly foundation, BB cream or tinted moisturiser. These products can make it more difficult to accurately assess facial skin lesions. If you normally wear makeup, you may be asked to remove it from areas that require closer examination.

If you have a new or changing lesion beneath a fingernail or toenail, please remove nail polish beforehand so it can be properly assessed. Otherwise, nail polish does not usually need to be removed.

This depends on your individual risk factors. Some people benefit from annual skin checks, while others with a personal history of skin cancer or a higher risk may require more frequent surveillance. Your GP can recommend a screening schedule tailored to your needs.

Many suspicious lesions can be assessed further with a skin biopsy or removed in the practice under local anaesthetic. If a lesion requires specialist management, your GP will discuss the most appropriate referral and treatment options.

A full skin check generally takes around 15–30 minutes, depending on the number of moles or lesions requiring assessment. If you have multiple concerns, please let reception know when booking so sufficient time can be allocated.

Book a skin check

Whether you’ve noticed a concerning spot or would simply like a routine examination, a comprehensive skin check is one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health.

Book an appointment with Dr May Tan or Dr Ben Carison for a comprehensive skin assessment.

Disclaimer

The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Please book an appointment for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.

Family Planning Australia general contraception information – https://www.fpnsw.org.au/factsheets/individuals/contraception/hormonal-iud

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