Skin Checks Taree

The right frequency depends on individual risk rather than a fixed national schedule. Many Australian doctors suggest adults have a professional skin check annually, with more frequent reviews recommended for people at higher risk. Risk factors include fair skin that burns easily, a history of sunburn or solarium use, extensive outdoor work or recreation, a large number of moles or unusual moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer and increasing age.

People who have previously had melanoma or another skin cancer usually follow a structured review schedule set by their doctor, sometimes every three to six months in the first years after treatment. Monthly self-examination at home is also widely recommended between professional checks, as patients or their partners are often the first to notice a change. A doctor can advise a suitable schedule at your first appointment based on your history and skin.

Skin cancers vary in appearance depending on the type. Melanoma often shows the features summarised by the ABCDE guide: Asymmetry, where one half of a spot doesn't match the other; Border irregularity; Colour variation within a single spot; Diameter greater than six millimetres; and Evolution, meaning change in size, shape, colour or elevation over time. Melanomas can develop within an existing mole or appear as a new spot.

The more common skin cancers look different again. Basal cell carcinomas often appear as pearly or pale lumps, or as flat, scaly areas that may bleed and fail to heal. Squamous cell carcinomas commonly present as thickened, red, scaly spots or rapidly growing lumps, sometimes tender to touch. Because appearances overlap with harmless spots, self-diagnosis is unreliable; any spot that is new, changing or simply looks different from your others should be assessed by a doctor.

The response depends on the level of concern. Some spots are noted and photographed or measured so they can be compared at a future visit, with a follow-up appointment booked to check for change. Where a spot shows concerning features, the usual next step is a biopsy, in which the doctor takes a small sample or removes the spot under local anaesthetic and sends it to a pathologist for examination.

Results generally return within one to two weeks, and the doctor discusses the findings and any recommended treatment with you. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common outcomes among confirmed skin cancers and are generally treatable, particularly when detected early. Where melanoma or a more complex cancer is confirmed, the doctor arranges treatment or specialist referral promptly and remains involved in your ongoing care.