Skin Cancer Clinic

Skin Checks

A full skin examination allows our doctors to assess moles, freckles, and other skin lesions that may require monitoring or further investigation.

Skin checks involve:

• A thorough examination of the skin from head to toe
• Assessment of moles and pigmented lesions
• Identification of suspicious or changing spots
• Dermatoscopic examination using specialised equipment
  

Your doctor will discuss whether any lesions require monitoring, biopsy, or removal.

Regular skin checks are particularly important if you:

• Have fair skin or burn easily
• Have had significant sun exposure
• Have many moles
• Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
• Have noticed a new or changing spot
  

Mirena Intrauterine Device

(IUD)

Mirena insertion is performed by trained GPs at Northpoint Medical Centre. 

The Mirena IUD is a small device placed inside the uterus that releases a low dose of hormone. It provides contraception for up to eight years and is also commonly used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding.

Benefits may include:

• Highly effective long-term contraception
• Reduced menstrual bleeding and period pain
• Convenience without daily medication
• Long duration of action
  

Before insertion, our doctors will discuss whether Mirena is suitable for you and explain the procedure, benefits, and potential side effects.

Skin Cancer Diagnosis

If a suspicious lesion is identified, your doctor may recommend a skin biopsy.

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of skin or the entire lesion under local anaesthetic and sending it to a pathology laboratory for analysis.

This allows accurate diagnosis and helps determine the most appropriate treatment.

Skin Cancer Treatment

Many skin cancers can be treated effectively when detected early.

At Northpoint Medical Centre we provide:

• Surgical removal of skin cancers
• Excision of suspicious lesions
• Treatment of precancerous lesions
• Follow-up monitoring and management
  

Most procedures are performed in the clinic under local anaesthetic.

Types of Skin Cancer

The most common skin cancers seen in Australia include:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• The most common form of skin cancer
• Usually slow growing
• Rarely spreads but can cause local damage if untreated
  

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• May grow more quickly than BCC
• Can spread if not treated early
  

Melanoma

• Less common but more serious
• Early detection is critical for successful treatment
  

Your doctor will discuss appropriate management if any of these conditions are diagnosed.

Signs to Watch For

You should have a spot checked if you notice:

• A new mole or spot
• A mole that changes in size, shape, or colour
• A sore that does not heal
• A spot that bleeds or becomes crusty
• A lesion that looks different from others on your skin
  

If you are unsure about any skin change, it is best to have it assessed by a doctor.

Ongoing Skin Surveillance

Patients who have had skin cancers previously may require regular skin checks to monitor for new lesions.

Your doctor will advise how often you should have your skin examined based on your individual risk factors.