Frequently Asked Questions

Each doctor has their own routine of conducting a skin check, however generally all areas of the skin will be checked using a hand held skin microscope called a dermatoscope. Skin Cancers can be found even in area’s that do not see the sun, therefore SunDoctors thoroughly recommends a full skin check including areas within your undergarments. However you may wish to have only a certain spot or area examined and we will certainly not force you to undergo a full skin examination. We do offer chaperones and modesty gowns to ensure patients feel comfortable.

Genitals and breast will not routinely be examined, but it is recommended that you self check these areas prior to your appointment and notify your doctor if you notice any lesions or spots that you would like checked.

Most Doctors at SunDoctors are also General Practitioners with special expertise in Skin Cancer, hence referrals are not necessary. Some doctors are specialists and do require a referral for maximum rebate from Medicare.

Please report to reception upon arrival who will provide you with forms that will explain the skin check process or procedure for your appointment. These forms offer you an option to choose your type of skin check (full body or specific area) and to request a chaperone during your consultation.

During your consultation the Doctor will examine the skin on the face, neck, legs, arms, torso, fingers, and toes and on the soles of the feet and palms of hands. For this to be conducted you will need to remove all clothing except for undergarments. Please limit or do not apply any make-up, fake-tan or nail polish on the day. Skin cancers can occur in areas which are not exposed to the sun. Please inform the Doctor if you have any "hidden" lesion you would like checked.

A skin check is completely safe and pain free.

If a lesion of concern is discovered, the examining Doctor will discuss possible options with you. The doctor may recommend a biopsy of the lesion to determine a diagnosis or may recommend a treatment.

Either phone one of our clinics for an appointment or click on the on-line booking icon on the right of this page.

It is easy. We will send you a reminder.

Unfortunately not all our clinics have Female Drs, however we can advise you on the nearest clinic that has a female doctor available.

SunDoctors are committed to providing a safe, comfortable environment where patients and staff can be confident that best practice is being followed at all times and the dignity and safety of everyone is of paramount importance. All patients are able to bring a person who offers support into their consultation, examination or procedure. This support person often known as a chaperone may be a family member or friend. On occasions you may prefer a formal chaperone (support person) to be present during your appointment, i.e. a member of staff. While we aim to accommodate your request we cannot guarantee one being available therefore please advise the receptionist when booking your appointment if this is your preference.

All Doctors at our dedicated skin cancer clinics are highly qualified and are trained to do most skin cancer procedures, such as surgical procedures, right in the clinic. But if you do need specialist surgery, they will refer you directly and immediately.

This depends on numerous factors including a family or personal history of skin cancers, history of sunburn, occupation and your skin type. Some people need to be seen every month or two while others only every few years.

No, most skin cancers are only on the surface – in fact the most common skin cancer, Basal cell Cancer, rarely kills anyone. Even melanomas, the more dangerous type of skin cancers can be easily cured if picked up early. Hence the importance of monitoring your own skin and making an appointment for regular skin checks or as soon as you notice a change in a spot or lesion.

No, most new skin spots are benign e.g. freckles, age spots, pimples. However, it is often hard to tell the difference from a safe spot to a potentially dangerous spot. It is always best to notify the doctor of any new spots at your regular skin check.

During our skin checks we take measurements and sometimes photographs, so that when you come for your next skin check, we can compare them with what we see. We also take detailed notes of everything and our specialised technology actually highlights skin changes, so that we can check them for you.

Spots to watch out for can be dark or pink. With dark spots, remember the ABCDE? With pink spots remember that any crusty, pink, ulcerated lesion that grows or bleeds over a few months may be a concern and should be checked.

Book a skin check and let a doctor at our dedicated skin cancer clinic have a look.

Book a skin check and let a doctor at our dedicated skin cancer clinic have a look.

Book a skin check and let a doctor at our dedicated skin cancer clinic have a look.

Many people get spots that come and go. Some are scratches or pimples or benign sores. Most will disappear after a few weeks. Usually we tell patients to be concerned if a spot grows and/or does not disappear after 6-8 weeks – then it is time to come and see us. However, no one knows your body better than you; if you are concerned, book a skin check and let a doctor take a look.

Yes, and the closer the relative, the higher the risk. So you and your family should stay sun safe, have regular skin checks and have all skin changes checked immediately. Early detection and treatment of skin cancers really does save lives.

Yes, I am afraid it does. But there are many ways you can keep yourself safe. Stay in the shade as much as possible, keep your skin covered up, always wear 50+ SPF sunscreen and a hat when you are outside and have regular skin checks.

Yes they do. So whatever your skin type, stay in the shade as much as possible, keep your skin covered up, always wear 50+ SPF sunscreen and a hat when you are outside and have regular skin checks.

Remember slip, slop slap? Now it is slip, slop, slap, seek and slide! So that is slip on a shirt, slop on 50+ sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade or shelter and slide on your sunnies. And have regular skin checks, because early detection could help you to avoid skin cancer.

To get the best protection, re-apply sunscreen every three to four hours, and straight away after you have been in water. And do not forget your hat and rashy!

Always choose at least a 30+ sunscreen or one with a higher SPF factor if you can. And do not forget to use a waterproof sunscreen if you are swimming or sweating a lot. Zinc based sunscreens will give you the best protection and last the longest. Look out for the Cancer Council’s logo, for the best sunscreens.

Most kids should not need their skin checked until they are around 18 years of age. Although skin cancer is rare in kids, this can occur. We do not recommend full body checks for kids, however if there are spots that are growing out of proportion or more irregularly its best you make an appointment at your nearest SunDoctors clinic.

Children’s skin is very sensitive to the sun and it is thought that early sun-burn in life is a significant risk factor for skin cancer later in life. Keep your kids out of the sun as much as possible and use kids-type sun-screen. And most importantly when in the sun - follow the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide guide.