Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and most skin cancers are curable when found early. Red Hill Family Clinic is where our two clinics provide full head-to-toe skin checks: Dr Harijs (Harry) Pavasaris has worked for many years in a dedicated skin cancer clinic, holds a diploma in dermoscopy, and believes that early diagnosis can often prevent the need for invasive surgery later. Both of our GPs also check individual moles and spots and perform biopsies and minor skin surgery in our treatment room.

Book a skin check Call (03) 5985 6662

What happens at a full skin check

A full skin check is a systematic examination of your whole skin surface, including the scalp, ears, back, soles and between fingers and toes, using a dermatoscope, a hand-held magnifier that shows the structures beneath the skin surface. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Anything of concern is photographed for monitoring, biopsied under local anaesthetic, or removed. Wear clothes that are easy to take off, and remove nail polish and make-up beforehand.

Spot checks, biopsies and removals

If you have one spot that is new, changing, bleeding or itchy, book a standard appointment with either GP. Suspicious lesions are biopsied and sent to pathology; results take about a week. Where a lesion needs to be removed, we do minor skin surgery in our treatment room, and refer to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist where specialist care is needed.

What to look for between checks

  • A new spot, or one that looks different from your others
  • A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
  • A sore that does not heal within a few weeks
  • A spot that itches, bleeds or becomes tender
  • A firm, pearly or scaly lump

How often should I have a skin check?

It depends on your risk. If you have had a skin cancer before, have many moles, fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or a history of sunburn or outdoor work, which is common among our farming and vineyard patients, a check at least once a year is usually advised. Others can rely on regular self-checks and see a GP promptly about any change. Your GP will recommend an interval for you.

Fees

A full skin check is billed as a long consultation; a spot check as a standard consultation. Bulk billing applies for eligible patients across all our consulting hours. Biopsies and removals carry a procedure fee and the pathology is bulk billed. Please ask reception for current fees.

Common questions

Do I need a referral for a skin check?

No. Book online with Dr Pavasaris for a full skin check, or with either GP for a spot check.

Can I have a full skin check at Rye?

Rye Family Clinic offers spot checks and minor skin surgery. Full skin checks are done here at Red Hill, about 25 minutes from Rye, and you can book online from either clinic’s website.

What happens if something is found?

Your GP will monitor it with photographs, take a small biopsy, or remove it. Results take about a week and your GP will contact you with the next step.