Our Services

At Blackbutt Medical Centre, we have skin doctors with a special interest in skin cancer checks, and additional training in the detection and removal of skin cancers.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. About two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma,
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma and
• Melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer and are sometimes call non-melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma usually begins as a new small spot, mole or freckle that changes colour, shape or thickness over months.

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, for example, by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

A skin cancer check assesses your skin cancer risk and indicates any current skin problems of concern.

The skin cancer check includes taking your medical history, including previous sun UV exposure, as well as undertaking a detailed examination of your skin. If any moles or lesions have developed or changed in size or nature recently, our doctors will assess and recommend the necessary treatment.

We recommend you see your GP for a skin cancer check at least annually. As well as scheduling your annual assessment, you should see your GP should you notice any of the following signs:

• Changes in a mole size, shape or colour
• The edges of a mole have begun to change
• The mole starts and continues to grow
• The mole is not a solid brown colour, but multicoloured instead

If you notice any of the above, it is advised to book an appointment immediately with your GP for an examination. Your doctor will provide you with a thorough skin check, and scan for symptoms of larger issues.

There is no single method to treat all skin cancers and precancerous lesions. Choice of method is dictated by the size of the lesion, its location, its type (often confirmed by biopsy), and whether it is a primary or recurrent lesion.

Also considered is the patient’s age, health, occupation and preference for treatment method.

Surgical procedures are carried out safely in a well-equipped treatment room with sterile instruments and surgical drapes and dressings.

Emphasis is placed on minimizing risk of infection, and ensuring patient safety, privacy and comfort.

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