Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most common questions from our patients
We understand that you may have many questions about skin cancer, and we are here to help. If you have a question that is not answered here, please do not hesitate to contact our melanoma clinic. Alternatively, if you’d like a skin check on the Sunshine Coast, please make an appointment.
We hope that this FAQ section will be helpful to you
WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?
Please refer to our Services page.
Do i need a referral?
No.
How do I make payment?
Payment is required on the day. We do not accept cash so please pay with a bank card. Bring the debit card linked to your Medicare account in order to receive rebates directly.
What is the medicare safety net?
The Medicare safety nets help reduce the out of pocket costs for out of hospital services. Click here for further information.
Can I use my private health insurance?
No. By law, private health insurance cannot cover out of hospital medical services. Click here for further information.
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?
Find us in Buderim Mall, across the road from Dee Den Restaurant, Rou Bourbon Coffee and the Buderim Tavern.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A SKIN CHECK?
Your doctor will enquire about your concerns and relevant medical history then ask you to undress and position yourself on the examination table. We have curtains and sheets available to keep you modest. The doctor will methodically check over your body, using a dermatoscope device to look closely at spots.
DO I HAVE TO GET COMPLETELY UNDRESSED FOR A SKIN CHECK?
Most of our patients prefer to leave their underwear on for a skin check. Please advise your doctor if you want to be checked underneath. Skin cancers can occur anywhere on the body. We have a female nurse available to chaperone.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE FOR A SKIN CHECK?
For your first appointment, please arrive 5-10 minutes early to complete a registration form if you did not complete one online. Please wear clothing and footwear that can be readily removed for your skin check. Please do not wear makeup as this could disguise skin cancers (we do have make up removal wipes available). Please wear your hair loose so we can check your scalp. If you have concerns with your nails, do not wear polish or artificial nails over the top. We appreciate you having a shower prior to your appointment to remove dirt, sweat and grime on the skin. Also, if you have a biopsy performed you will need to keep a dressing dry overnight.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY DOCTOR FINDS A SKIN CANCER?
The doctor will discuss their concerns with you and determine whether to biopsy it or go straight to a complete excision. Biopsies can usually be done on the day but excisions will require you to return at another time.
WHAT IS A SKIN BIOPSY?
A biopsy refers to taking a sample of skin to determine if a spot is cancerous. Shave and punch biopsies are commonly used. If your biopsy indicates a skin cancer, you will need a complete excision with a margin of normal skin to cure the cancer.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED AN EXCISION?
An excision refers to cutting out and stitching. You will be booked an excision time and day for this. Our excisions are done with local anaesthetic only so there is no need to fast. Most people are fine to drive themselves home afterwards, unless they are feeling woozy or their vision is obscured by dressings on the face. You will typically be asked to keep your dressing completely dry for 2 days. You will need to return to have external stitches removed anywhere from 5 to 14 days after. We will advise you of pathology results at this time.
DO YOU RECOMMEND A PARTICULAR SUNSCREEN?
We recommend using SPF 50+ creams and lotions. Any brand is fine and sometimes you need to try a number to find one that you like. Spray on sunscreens are often not applied thickly enough to be reliable. Don’t forget to use shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. UV rating apps such as SunSmart are helpful to plan outdoor activities.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKIN CANCER?
The three most common types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, and it is usually slow-growing and non-invasive. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, and it can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, but it is also the most dangerous. It can spread quickly to other parts of the body which is why early diagnosis and treatment is important.
DO YOU HAVE DISABILITY ACCESS?
Our clinic is ground floor and can be accessed by wheelchair. There is a disability park near the clinic entrance.
DO YOU DO TOTAL BODY PHOTOGRAPHY?
No. If you are assessed as being high risk of melanoma and an appropriate candidate for total body photography, we will refer you to a local service.