Question 1

What is a full body skin check?

Accepted Answer

A full body skin check is a comprehensive examination of your skin performed by a qualified skin cancer doctor. Your doctor will carefully assess moles, spots and lesions for any signs of skin cancer or sun damage using advanced dermoscopy technology.

Question 2

How often should I get a skin check?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your skin type, sun exposure history and personal risk factors. Many Australians benefit from annual skin checks, while some patients may require checks every 3–6 months if they have a history of skin cancer or high sun exposure.

Question 3

What happens during a skin check appointment?

Accepted Answer

During your appointment, your doctor will:
Review your skin and medical history
Perform a thorough skin examination
Use dermoscopy to assess suspicious lesions
Discuss any findings and recommendations
Arrange biopsy or treatment if required
Our goal is to make your appointment thorough, comfortable and reassuring.

Question 4

How long does a skin check take?

Accepted Answer

Most full body skin checks take approximately 15 minutes depending on the number of spots being assessed and your individual needs.

Question 5

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No referral is required to book a skin check appointment at Sunrise Skin Cancer Clinic

Question 6

What is dermoscopy?

Accepted Answer

Dermoscopy is an advanced skin examination technique using a specialised device called a dermatoscope. It allows the doctor to closely examine skin lesions and identify features not visible to the naked eye.

Question 7

What are the warning signs of skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

You should arrange a skin check if you notice:
A spot changing in size, shape or colour
A sore that does not heal
Bleeding, crusting or itching lesions
New or unusual moles
Persistent sun-damaged areas
Early detection is extremely important.

Question 8

What types of skin cancer do you check for?

Accepted Answer

We assess for all common skin cancers including:
Melanoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Question 9

What happens if something suspicious is found?

Accepted Answer

If a suspicious lesion is identified, your doctor will discuss the next steps with you. This may include monitoring, biopsy or treatment. Many procedures can be performed onsite at the clinic.

Question 10

Are biopsies painful?

Accepted Answer

Biopsies are generally performed under local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well.

Question 11

Do you perform skin cancer surgery onsite?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We perform a range of skin cancer procedures onsite, including:
Biopsies
Excisions
Cryotherapy
Advanced surgical repairs including flaps and skin grafts

Question 12

What is cryotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Cryotherapy is a treatment that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and treat certain sun-damaged or pre-cancerous skin lesions.

Question 13

What are flaps and skin grafts?

Accepted Answer

Flaps and skin grafts are advanced surgical techniques used to repair skin after removal of certain skin cancers. These techniques help achieve both functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Question 14

Is skin cancer treatment covered by Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Medicare rebates may apply to consultations and eligible procedures. Our team can help explain fees and Medicare rebate information during your appointment.

Question 15

Do you bulk bill?

Accepted Answer

We are a private billing practice, but we do offer bulk billing skin checks and biopsies for Pension and Concession Card Holders over 65 years of age and for DVA Gold Card holders. Any excisions will be privately billed for all patients regardless of age or pension type.

Question 16

Who is at higher risk of skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

Higher-risk individuals may include:
People with fair skin
Those with significant sun exposure
Outdoor workers
People over 40
Individuals with a personal or family history of skin cancer

Question 17

Can younger people get skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Although skin cancer is more common in older Australians, younger people can also develop skin cancer, especially with high UV exposure or family history.

Question 18

Should I get checked even if I have no symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many skin cancers develop silently and may not cause symptoms early on. Routine skin checks can help detect suspicious lesions before they become more serious.

Question 19

How can I reduce my risk of skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce your risk by:
Using SPF50+ sunscreen
Wearing protective clothing and hats
Avoiding excessive sun exposure
Seeking shade during peak UV times
Having regular skin checks

Question 20

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book online through https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/redcliffe-QLD-4020/sunrise-skin-cancer-clinic/doctors/dr-sangeeta-duggal-1 or call the clinic directly on 07 2142 1786.

Question 21

Still Have Questions?

Accepted Answer

Call our friendly team on 07 2142 1786 or book online today.

Sunrise Skin Cancer Clinic

Frequently asked questions