Skin Cancer Checks
Know what you’re looking at

Two categories. One rule: earlier is always better.

Not all skin cancers behave the same way. Knowing the difference helps you understand why timing matters.

Melanoma

The one that can't wait

The most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma can turn life-threatening within as little as six weeks and needs surgical removal without delay. It usually shows up as a new mole, or a change to one you already have

New mole or a change to an existing one
Requires surgical treatment
Time-sensitive — assessment shouldn't be delayed
Non-Melanoma

BCC & SCC — common, manageable

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the two most common skin cancers. They’re rarely life-threatening, but still need proper diagnosis and treatment.

A lump, thickened patch, or fast-growing spot
A sore that won't heal, or feels tender
Surgical and non-surgical options available
Skin Cancer Checks
A

Asymmetry

One half of the mole no longer matches the other.

B

Border

The edge becomes irregular, blurred or notched, rather than smo

C

Colour

Uneven shading, or new patches of tan, brown, black, red or blue within the one spot.

D

Diameter & Elevation

Noticeable growth in size, or a spot that starts to sit raised above the skin.

E

Evolving

Any change over time — including new itching or bleeding — is worth having checked.

Criteria adapted from Cancer Council Australia's guidance on identifying melanoma.
Why it happens

Australia sits closer to the thinning ozone layer than almost anywhere else.

Most skin cancers are caused by UV radiation damaging your skin’s DNA and disrupting normal cell growth. Living under some of the harshest sun exposure in the world puts every Australian at higher risk.

History of sunburn
Fair skin, eyes or hair
Aged 50 or older
Living in a warm climate
Family history
Prior radiation exposure
Weakened immune system
Frequent outdoor work

A specialist team, working from one Sydney CBD clinic.

Our dermatologists and Mohs surgery specialists work together so your care — from first check to final treatment — never leaves the one team.

Skin Cancer Checks

Dr Maryam Seyedabadi

Dermatologist · Mohs Surgery

Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists and the American College of Mohs Surgery.

Skin Cancer Checks

Dr Matthew Lin

Dermatologist · Mohs Surgery

Special interest in skin checks and the surgical management of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Checks

Dr Victoria Harris

Specialist Dermatologist

Trained in all aspects of medical and surgical dermatology.

Skin Cancer Checks

Dr Rebecca Saunderson

Specialist Dermatologist

Focus on early detection of skin cancer and general dermatology.

Skin Cancer Checks

Common questions, answered plainly.

Swipe through, or use the arrows — everything you’d ask before your first visit.

How often should I get a skin check?

Most adults benefit from an annual check. If you have fair skin, a family history, or a history of sunburn, your doctor may recommend checking more often.

What actually happens during the check?

A dermatologist examines your skin from head to toe using dermoscopy, a magnified imaging technique that reveals detail invisible to the naked eye.

Do I need a referral, or does Medicare cover it?

A GP referral isn’t required for a skin check, and Medicare rebates may apply. Our team can talk you through costs before your appointment.

How often should I get a skin check?

Most adults benefit from an annual check. If you have fair skin, a family history, or a history of sunburn, your doctor may recommend checking more often.

What actually happens during the check?

A dermatologist examines your skin from head to toe using dermoscopy, a magnified imaging technique that reveals detail invisible to the naked eye.

Do I need a referral, or does Medicare cover it?

A GP referral isn’t required for a skin check, and Medicare rebates may apply. Our team can talk you through costs before your appointment.

last step

Book your skin check.

Noticed a new or changing spot? Melanoma can progress within weeks — mention this when you enquire and our team will prioritise your booking.

Name(Required)

Prefer to talk now? Call 1300 911 151 — our team is on hand during business hours.