The most common form of non-melanoma skin cancer. BCCs are especially common in individuals with fair skin, a large number of moles, a history of significant sun exposure or blistering sunburn, previous skin cancers, or immunosuppression. BCCs are slow-growing and very rarely life-threatening, but they do require prompt and appropriate treatment to prevent local tissue damage. They may be superficial or nodular in appearance and are often found on the face, neck, and other sun-exposed areas.
The second most common form of skin cancer. SCCs tend to grow more rapidly than BCCs and carry a small risk of spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated. They often arise in areas of chronic sun damage, actinic keratoses, or pre-existing skin injury. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important.
The most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma arises from the pigment-producing melanocyte cells and has the potential to invade the bloodstream and spread to other organs (metastasise) if not detected and treated early. Melanoma may appear as a dark, irregular mole or spot, and can develop rapidly. Early detection is critical. Our team has extensive experience in melanoma diagnosis and management, including surgeons with appointments at the Victorian Melanoma Service.
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective skin cancer management. Our dermatologists use dermoscopy, a specialised magnifying device with a polarised light source, to examine lesions in detail and assess features not visible to the naked eye. Where a lesion is suspicious, a biopsy is performed, usually at the same appointment.
A biopsy involves the removal of a small portion of the lesion (approximately 2mm) under local anaesthetic. The sample is sent to a pathology service for laboratory analysis. Results are typically available within seven days, after which your dermatologist will contact you to discuss the findings and arrange an appropriate treatment plan.
We also use digital mole mapping and dermoscopic photography to monitor lesions over time, particularly in patients with a large number of moles or a previous history of skin cancer.
Treatment at Skindepth is tailored to the type, size, location, and characteristics of each skin cancer, as well as the individual patient's circumstances. Our treatment options include:
The most common treatment for skin cancer. The lesion and a margin of surrounding tissue are removed under local anaesthetic and sent for pathology to confirm clear margins. For most BCCs and SCCs this is a straightforward in-clinic procedure with minimal downtime.
For larger or more complex excisions where direct closure is not possible, or where the best cosmetic outcome requires specialist technique, our plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr James Finkemeyer is available for consultation and surgery. All procedures are performed in our surgical theatre, with aftercare and suture removal managed in the same familiar environment.
Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy for superficial BCCs and actinic keratoses. A fast, effective in-clinic treatment for appropriate lesion types.
A highly effective treatment for superficial BCCs and sun-damaged skin with precancerous lesions (solar keratoses/actinic keratoses). A photosensitising agent (ALA) is applied to the skin and activated by a specific wavelength of light, destroying abnormal cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. ALA-PDT requires two appointments on the same day and is recommended by your dermatologist where clinically appropriate.
Imiquimod and 5-fluorouracil cream for superficial BCCs and actinic keratoses in appropriate patients. Applied at home over a prescribed course, these treatments stimulate a local immune response to destroy abnormal cells.
Melanoma requires a specialised management approach including wide local excision with appropriate margins, sentinel node biopsy where indicated, and multidisciplinary input for advanced cases. Our dermatologists work closely with the Victorian Melanoma Service and with oncology colleagues to ensure appropriate and timely management for all melanoma patients.
For patients who have previously been diagnosed with skin cancer, regular ongoing surveillance is essential to detect recurrence or new lesions as early as possible.
Our recommended surveillance schedules:
Your dermatologist will provide a personalised surveillance schedule based on your individual risk profile, including your skin type, sun exposure history, lesion history, and family history.
Certain groups have a significantly elevated risk of developing skin cancer:
If several of these apply to you, a dermatologist assessment and structured surveillance plan is strongly recommended.
While not all skin cancers are preventable, consistent sun protection significantly reduces the risk of developing skin cancer and sun damage. Our dermatologists recommend:
A GP referral is recommended and required for a Medicare rebate on your dermatologist consultation. However, if you are concerned about a specific lesion and do not have a current referral, please contact the clinic directly. We prioritise patients with urgent skin cancer concerns and can advise on the fastest pathway to assessment.
Pathology results are typically available within seven days of the biopsy being taken. Your dermatologist or the clinic team will contact you to discuss the results and arrange the appropriate next steps as soon as the report is received.
All surgical excisions will result in some degree of scarring. However the vast majority of surgical scars from skin cancer excisions are small, well-healed, and not significantly noticeable over time. Where a larger excision is required, our plastic and reconstructive surgeon employs techniques designed to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome. At Skindepth we also have laser and light-based treatments available to address any scarring that requires further attention following healing.
Use the ABCDE method as a guide. Asymmetry: one half of the lesion looks different from the other. Border: irregular, ragged, or blurred edges. Colour: uneven colour, or shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue. Diameter: larger than 6mm, though melanomas can be smaller. Evolving: any change in size, shape, colour, or any new symptom such as bleeding or itching. If you notice any of these features, or a lesion that simply doesn't look right, book an appointment promptly.
All surgical procedures at Skindepth are performed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure itself is not painful. You may feel some pressure or movement during the procedure but you should not feel any sharp pain. Some discomfort in the days following the procedure is normal and generally manageable with standard over-the-counter pain relief. Your dermatologist and nursing team will provide full wound care instructions and advice on managing post-procedure discomfort before you leave the clinic.
For most adults with average risk and no previous skin cancer, an annual skin check is recommended. For those with a previous non-melanoma skin cancer, 6-monthly checks are generally advised. For patients with a previous melanoma, 3 to 6 monthly checks are recommended in the years following diagnosis. Your dermatologist will provide a personalised surveillance schedule based on your individual risk factors at your first appointment.