Skin Checks

Have you noticed a change in the look of your skin?

Did you know that non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world? It affects two out of every three Australians by the age of 70.

While skin cancer is almost entirely preventable, early detection is important.

If you have a mole that is worrying you or you’ve noticed any of the following changes, it’s important to have it checked by a doctor as soon as possible. 

• Has your mole changed in colour or size, or has become itchy?
• Do you have an area of skin that never heals?
• Do you have a spot that has grown quickly, or is new?

Even if you feel your skin is healthy, we recommend consulting a doctor for a skin check at least once a year, especially if you spend time in the sun for work or leisure purposes.

At Westcare Family Medical Centre, Dr Farrukh Tufail and Dr Hina Zulfiqu have significant experience in the early detection and management of all types of skin cancer. They have completed extensive additional training in the fields of skin cancer medicine and surgery.

They offer the following skin cancer medicine services:

• Full-body skin checks using a dermatoscope: Dermoscopy helps differentiate between skin legions, such as freckles, moles, seborrheic keratoses, and skin cancers, to determine whether a lesion is likely benign or requires further testing.
• Biopsies: A skin biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of skin for testing, which can help diagnose an abnormal area of skin.
• Excisions: If necessary, your doctor can perform a surgical procedure to remove cancerous tissue, assisting healthy skin cells to regenerate and repair the surgical site.
• Grafts and flaps: Dr Farrukh and Dr Hina are both experienced in reconstructive procedures, including grafts and flaps, to restore functionality and aesthetics to treated areas.
• Topical creams: Non-invasive and targeted treatment solutions, such as topical creams, are options for certain types of skin cancers.
• Cryotherapy: An effective and minimally invasive treatment option for certain conditions, using liquid nitrogen to eliminate abnormal skin cells.

Please note: Procedures such as biopsies, excisions, grafts, and flaps are performed after the initial skin check. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled if these services are required.

We recommend annual skin checks for people aged 50 years and over or who have:

• Family history of melanoma
• Previous history of non-melanoma skin cancer
• Previous history of melanoma
• Significant sun damage
• A spot that has changed, is new, or has become symptomatic.

If this is you or someone you know, please book a skin check appointment with Dr Farrukh or Dr Hina online or by calling us on (03) 9747 5800.