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Patient Information

Did you know skin cancer is the most common type of cancer occurring in our community?  Albany Skin Clinic offers a comprehensive skin cancer service including full skin assessments, digital photographic surveillance, mole mapping, dermoscopy, biopsy or suspicious lesions and therapeutic options such as cryotherapy, surgical excision and management with skin cancer creams.

 

A thorough assessment of your skin involves a detailed history about your previous skin problems and risk factors for skin cancer as well as a careful examination under lighting and with the aid of a dermatoscope.  A skin check can be performed for anyone who is concerned about their skin.  Based on a skin check assessment our Skin Clinic doctors can advise you on your relative level of risk for developing skin cancers and make recommendations about how often you should have your skin checked.

Common Questions

​​​​​Do I need a referral to attend the Albany Skin Clinic?

No, you do not require a referral.  If however your GP has referred you to us, please bring the referral along.

 

 

Do I need to undress for a skin examination? 

A thorough skin examination is usually performed down to underwear (or bathers). We ask that you inform the doctor if you are aware of skin sports hidden by underwear. Modesty sheets are used and a chaperone is available if requested. 



 

Can suspicious spots be removed by Albany Skin Clinic?

Albany Skin clinic doctors have expertise in skin surgery and regular surgical lists and are therefore able to remove most suspicious spots on site at the Albany Skin Clinic.  In some circumstances a referral to plastic surgeons or to specialised MOHS clinics for particular skin cancers may be recommended.

 

 

Are you available for workplace skin checks?

Yes. Please contact us and ask to speak to the practice manager to arrange this. 

 

 

Do you do skin photography?

Digital skin photography can assist in identifying suspicious lesions. If you have a high risk of skin cancers your doctor might suggest baseline photos of your skin to be used for future comparison. Some suspicious lesions can be safely monitored with a dermoscopic photo which can reduce the number of spots that need to be removed surgically.

 

 

RISK FACTORS               SunSmart

 

 

          Skin Type

Lighter colour skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and will burn more quickly.  People with lighter colour skin are at greater risk of skin cancer.

 

          Family or Personal History

Sun exposure is the cause of most skin cancers, however, if you or a family member has a history of skin cancer it increases your risk of skin cancer.

 

          Large number of moles 

The more moles you have on your skin, the higher the risk of melanoma.  The number of moles we develop is dependant on genetics and exposure to UV radiation.

 

         Exposure to UV radiation

If you spend lots of time outdoors unprotected or actively tan or use solariums or sunlamps you are at higher risk of skin cancer.  Also your risk is greater if you have a history of severe blistering or sunburn.

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