What to Expect During Your First Skin Cancer Check
If you’ve never had a skin cancer check before, it’s natural to feel a little uncertain about what to expect. At Shade Skin, our goal is to make your first visit as comfortable, respectful and informative as possible. Whether you’re booking a routine check or are concerned about a specific spot, understanding the process can help you feel more at ease.
Here’s a look at what happens during a comprehensive skin cancer check, along with answers to some common questions we hear from new patients.
Warm Welcome and Medical History
When you arrive at Shade Skin, you’ll be greeted by our friendly reception team and asked to complete a short medical history form. This helps your doctor understand any relevant personal or family history, your sun exposure habits, current medications and whether you’ve noticed any changes in your skin. Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete this.
If there’s a particular mole or lesion you’re concerned about, be sure to point it out during this stage. That said, your doctor will conduct a thorough full-body check regardless.
“We know that comfort and trust are vital when it comes to skin checks. “
Choosing a Doctor You’re Comfortable With
We know that comfort and trust are vital when it comes to skin checks. That’s why you’re welcome to choose between a male or female doctor when you book. Just let us know your preference and we’ll make sure you’re matched accordingly.
Our team of doctors is highly trained in skin cancer medicine and dermoscopy, and they’ll take time to explain the process, answer your questions and ensure you feel completely at ease.
Preparing for the Skin Check
For a full-body check, you’ll be asked to remove your clothing down to your underwear. You’ll have privacy to change, and we provide a modesty sheet for your comfort.
If you’re wearing makeup or nail polish, we may ask you to remove it in certain areas to properly examine the skin underneath. A full checklist can be found here.
“Your doctor will methodically assess your skin from head to toe.”
The Examination
Your doctor will carefully examine your skin using a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifying device with polarised light that reveals patterns beneath the skin’s surface not visible to the naked eye.
Your doctor will methodically assess your skin from head to toe, including the scalp, soles of your feet and between fingers and toes. If you have long hair, you may be asked to tie it up so the scalp can be checked.
The full-body skin check takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, depending on how many moles or lesions you have.
Documenting and Monitoring Any Spots
If your doctor finds a spot that appears unusual but not immediately concerning, they may photograph it using clinical imaging software. This allows us to track any changes over time and compare the images during future skin checks.
This approach is particularly helpful for people with lots of moles or those at higher risk of melanoma or other skin cancers.
What Happens if a Lesion Looks Suspicious?
If a mole or spot raises concern, your doctor might recommend a biopsy. We offer both shave and punch biopsies, depending on the type and location of the lesion, which we will discuss at the time of your skin check. This involves taking a small sample of skin under local anaesthetic for testing in a pathology lab.
The biopsy itself is quick and generally pain-free. Most patients describe feeling only a brief sting from the local anaesthetic injection. Results are usually available within 10 to 14 days. We’ll contact you directly by phone or text message to discuss them and any follow-up steps if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it hurt?
Not at all. The examination is non-invasive and painless. If a biopsy is needed, it’s done with local anaesthetic. You may feel a small pinch from the injection, but it’s quick and very tolerable.
How long will it take?
A full skin check takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. If you require a biopsy or further discussion, the appointment might run a bit longer. Either way, your doctor will take the time needed to ensure the check is thorough.
Do I need to fully undress?
You’ll only need to undress to your underwear, and we’ll provide a modesty sheet for comfort and privacy.
Is it bulk billed?
Shade Skin is a private billing clinic, but Medicare rebates apply to most consultations and procedures. We’re always transparent about fees, so please ask our team for a cost estimate when booking. We’ll walk you through any out-of-pocket costs beforehand.
What if I feel embarrassed or nervous?
That’s completely understandable. Our doctors are experienced, approachable and always respectful. You’re welcome to bring a support person along if that helps you feel more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Early detection through a professional skin check can save your life.
At Shade Skin, we’re proud to offer a modern, welcoming approach to skin cancer medicine. Our team is compassionate, our clinic is calming, and our doctors and nurses are dedicated to thorough and patient-focused care.
If it’s your first time, or just your first time in a while, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to book your skin check?
