Skin Check Mackay
Skin Cancer Checks, Mole Mapping, Skin Care Services
Skin Cancer Checks
Sunspots and sun-damaged skin can be treated early to prevent skin cancers. There are three major types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Most often skin cancers develop on skin exposed to the sun and can also occur on areas of your skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight.
By limiting or avoiding exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays you can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Early detection with regular skin cancer checks gives you the greatest chance for highly successful skin cancer treatment.
Of the three main types of skin cancer, melanoma is the most aggressive and accounts for approximately 75% of all skin cancer-related deaths. The early phase of malignant melanoma can be particularly difficult to identify since malignant melanomas of the skin can share many clinical features with atypical birthmarks, moles or other benign skin lesions. All lesions excised by your treating doctor are sent to a skilled pathologist for evaluation with examination of the lesion under a microscope for diagnosis.
Once a diagnosis has been reached, whether by histopathology or by your doctor, treatment options are discussed with the patient and risks and benefits of each option clearly outlined. All initial skin check consultations are rebate-able with Medicare.
The servicing doctors at Health Hub Mackay implement a best practice policy and use the latest techniques and modalities to bring about the optimum health and cosmetic outcomes for our patients in the Mackay area. Book a skin check in Mackay on (07) 4942 2777.
Dermoscopy
Mole Checks, Mole Photography & Mole Mapping
In order to improve the accuracy of diagnosis of malignancies in pigmented skin lesions and, therefore, improve health outcomes, the doctors at Health Hub Mackay utilise the state-of-the-art skin surveillance system, Heine Cube (skin surface microscope). Dermoscopy is a non-invasive technique that examines tissue layers beneath the skin surface with microscopy.
Magnification of microscopic mole features assists melanoma diagnosis and precise clinical photographic mapping accurately identifies each mole and enables the detection of microscopic changes in these moles and the identification of new moles over time.
Mole Analysis
Serial objective microscopic mole analysis promotes the early detection of melanoma and digital dermoscopy reduces the number of precautionary excisions. See the skin cancer check above for more information on skin cancers and treatments performed to remove lesions.
A medical skin consultation with one of our treating doctors in Mackay is required before having a mole check with mole mapping and photography at Health Hub Mackay. This consultation is partially claimable through Medicare.
Medical Skin Analysis
Medical skin analysis involves a careful assessment of your skin's condition and takes into account any determining factors that may be damaging to your skin's health, such as underlying medical conditions, skin type, history of sun exposure and the products used in your daily skincare routine.
For a medical analysis, we recommend you attend a consultation with your treating doctor to ensure you receive the best and most appropriate medical opinion and advice relevant to your skin's condition.
At Mackay Health Hub, we offer cosmetics and skincare in Mackay, as well as treatments to help support your skin. A combination of both skin treatments and medication is often beneficial. A medical skin analysis with your treating doctor is claimable from Medicare.
Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photo dynamic therapy (PDT) is an alternative, non-surgical method of treatment for non-pigmented skin cancers. MAL is a cream that contains methyl aminolevulinate. This substance is specifically absorbed into the altered skin cells of these lesions.
MAL causes compounds called porphyrins to accumulate and be absorbed selectively by the Actinic Keratosis, Solar Keratosis and Basel Cell Carcinoma. These porphyrins are light sensitive, so when the MAL is illuminated and activated by an appropriate red light source, it causes a reaction in the skin cells and treats the lesion.
Due to the non-invasive and selective nature of the treatment, the potential for scarring and side effects are minimised. Several lesions can be treated at the same time. Side effects such as redness and crusting are generally of mild to moderate intensity and usually resolve rapidly.
The servicing doctors at Health Hub Mackay will assess your skin and if MAL PDT is medically indicated, will advise you of the quantity of cream you will need.
Surgical Excisions
Cosmetic radiosurgery
Surgical excision of a skin lesion (a lump, bump or discolouration), such as a skin cancer, is one of the most common clinical procedures that can be done in a skin clinic. The removal of a lesion is often the first and best treatment for many conditions, especially skin cancers, because if done correctly, it not only completely gets rid of the problem but can also stop it from regrowing. Cutting the lesion out makes sure the lesion has been completely removed, confirmed by histopathological examination.
Before a lesion such as a skin cancer is removed, your doctor will first have to be certain that it is worth removing. For skin cancers such as basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and melanomas, it is always best to have them removed. When your treating doctor is discussing your treatment options in your initial consult, they may suggest that a lesion is removed with the 'Surgitron®.
Cosmetic radiosurgery by Surgitron® allows the removal of cosmetic lumps and bumps on the face and body with virtually no risk of scarring or sutures. The patented Surgitron® represents advanced radio wave technology that provides unparalleled surgical control, precision, versatility and safety. Clinical benefits can include reduced post-operative discomfort, minimal scar tissue formation, maximum readability of histological specimen, enhanced healing and excellent cosmetic results. Depending on the size and location of the lesion to be treated, a slight indentation and/or whitening of the skin could result. In some cases, suturing may be necessary.
Sclerotherapy
Servicing doctor, Dr John Goldston, offers a treatment called sclerotherapy, which reduces the appearance of those unwanted varicose veins, known as spider veins, which are commonly seen on the legs and face. Spider veins may also be associated with aching in the legs, particularly after standing for prolonged periods. The treatment performed by Dr Goldston requires the technique of instilling an irritant solution into the vein using a very small needle. The solution destroys the lining of the abnormal vessel and causes the walls of the vessel to stick together so that eventually the spider vein is replaced with almost imperceptible scar tissue. Each area may need several treatments (2 to 3 on average) and the veins will take up to six months to fade.
For an accurate diagnosis and advice, you will require an initial medical consultation with Dr Goldston which is rebate-able with Medicare.
Come to Us for a Comprehensive Skin Check Mackay Counts On
Skin cancer is one of the most common yet preventable health concerns in Australia. Regular skin checks are essential for early detection, allowing for more effective treatment and better health outcomes. Our experienced doctors in Mackay specialise in comprehensive skin assessments, ensuring that any changes in your skin are identified promptly. Whether you are at high risk due to sun exposure or simply want peace of mind, a professional skin check is a crucial step in maintaining your skin health.
Why Regular Skin Checks Are Essential
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, making a regular skin check in Mackay an important aspect of your preventative healthcare. Early detection significantly improves treatment success, reducing the risk of complications and invasive procedures. Many skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can develop without noticeable symptoms. Routine skin checks help identify abnormalities before they progress, allowing for timely medical intervention and better patient outcomes.
The importance of regular skin checks extends beyond just detecting cancer. Skin checks can also help uncover other skin conditions, such as sunspots, age spots or pre-cancerous lesions, which might develop over time due to prolonged UV exposure. Detecting these early can prevent them from advancing into more severe health problems. Moreover, by monitoring changes in the skin, individuals can receive personalised advice on how to protect their skin better, potentially preventing future skin damage.
Understanding Skin Cancer Risks in Australia
Due to Australia's high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the incidence of skin cancer is alarmingly high. Prolonged sun exposure, even without experiencing sunburn, increases the risk of developing skin cancer over time. Those with fair skin, light hair and freckles are particularly susceptible. Additionally, people who spend significant time outdoors for work or recreation, or who have a family history of melanoma or previous skin cancers, are at an elevated risk. Understanding these risk factors is key to recognising the importance of early detection through regular skin checks.
The Importance of Early Detection
The sooner skin cancer is detected, the more effectively it can be treated. Melanoma, in particular, can spread rapidly if not caught early. A professional skin check allows doctors to assess moles, freckles and other skin irregularities to determine whether they require further examination or treatment. By identifying suspicious lesions before they become serious, skin checks can literally save lives. Early detection also reduces the need for invasive surgeries, ensuring that minor procedures can effectively remove problematic growths before they progress.
In addition to improving treatment outcomes, early detection also offers psychological benefits. Many patients feel a sense of relief and reduced anxiety knowing that any potential issues have been addressed promptly. Furthermore, regular skin checks foster a proactive approach to health, helping individuals feel more confident about their skin and its ongoing care. The peace of mind gained from early detection is invaluable, especially in a country like Australia, where skin cancer is such a prevalent concern.
A Quality Skin Check in Mackay
We offer comprehensive skin cancer checks and mole mapping services tailored to meet your needs. Our doctors in Mackay use advanced diagnostic tools to provide accurate assessments of your skin health. Whether you require a general skin check, dermoscopy, mole photography or mole mapping, our services are designed to ensure early detection and effective management of skin concerns.
Skin Cancer Checks
A skin cancer check is a thorough examination of your skin to identify any abnormalities. During the assessment, our doctors inspect your skin from head to toe, evaluating moles, freckles and any unusual changes. Our doctors in Mackay focus on identifying irregularities that may indicate early-stage skin cancer, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly. If suspicious lesions are found, we will recommend further diagnostic testing or immediate treatment options.
In addition to examining your skin for visible signs of skin cancer, our doctors in Mackay also assess the texture and overall health of your skin. Some skin cancers may develop in areas that are not typically exposed to the sun, so a comprehensive skin check is essential to ensure all areas of the body are thoroughly evaluated. The check is non-invasive, and while it may take some time, it provides a vital opportunity to catch any potential issues early, leading to better outcomes and more effective treatments.
Dermoscopy for Precise Diagnosis
Dermoscopy is a highly effective tool that enhances the accuracy of skin cancer diagnoses. By magnifying the skin, dermoscopy allows our doctors to examine lesions in greater detail. This advanced imaging technique helps differentiate between benign and malignant skin conditions, reducing unnecessary biopsies while ensuring early intervention when needed. Our clinic utilises dermoscopy to provide precise and reliable assessments.
In addition to providing a detailed view of the skin’s surface, dermoscopy also allows our doctors to assess the deeper layers of skin. This can help detect early signs of melanoma and other skin cancers that may not be visible to the naked eye. Dermoscopy is non-invasive and comfortable, offering a faster and more accurate way to monitor any changes in skin lesions, making it an invaluable tool for your regular skin check in Mackay.
Mole checks are a critical part of skin cancer screening, particularly for individuals with multiple or atypical moles. Our doctors in Mackay assess moles using the ABCDE rule — Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter and Evolving changes. For patients with high-risk moles, mole photography is an invaluable tool that tracks changes over time. High-resolution images provide a reference for future comparisons, enabling the early detection of any concerning developments.
Advanced Mole Mapping & Analysis
Mole mapping is an advanced imaging technique that records and monitors the evolution of moles. This service is particularly beneficial for patients with a high number of moles or a personal or family history of skin cancer. Using state-of-the-art technology, our doctors can accurately track mole changes over time, ensuring that any suspicious developments are detected early. Mole mapping provides peace of mind and significantly enhances early diagnosis efforts.
Mole mapping not only tracks changes in size, shape and colour but also captures subtle differences in mole texture that may indicate potential problems. This long-term monitoring allows our doctors to detect even the slightest of changes, which is vital for patients with a higher risk of skin cancer. With regular mole mapping sessions, we can offer personalised care, making it easier to develop a targeted and effective prevention or treatment plan tailored to your unique skin health needs.
Medical Skin Analysis for Early Detection
Medical skin analysis assesses overall skin health and detects early signs of precancerous changes. By evaluating skin texture, pigmentation and lesions, our doctors can identify abnormalities that may require further examination or treatment. This proactive approach to skin health helps prevent the development of serious conditions, ensuring optimal long-term care.
Book a Skin Check in Mackay Today
Your skin health is too important to ignore. Regular skin checks provide peace of mind and play a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. If you have noticed any new or changing moles, have a history of sun exposure or simply want a professional assessment of your skin, now is the time to book a consultation. Our experienced
doctors in Mackay are here to provide expert care and comprehensive skin check services. Don't wait until it's too late — schedule your skin check in Mackay today by calling our clinic or booking online.
