What Happens at a Skin Check? A Guide for Wollongong Patients

In the Illawarra, spring is a common time for people to book a skin check. UV levels can be high even on mild or overcast days, and many people are still working out their sun habits after winter. Understanding what actually happens during an appointment can make it easier to book one, rather than put it off.

Why Spring Is a Reasonable Time to Book a Skin Check

UV exposure isn't only a summer concern. Cancer Institute NSW has identified parts of the Illawarra as a melanoma hotspot region, and local reporting on Illawarra skin cancer research (Illawarra Mercury, drawing on Dr Bruce Ashford's work) has highlighted the region's comparatively high rates of skin cancer. If this data is more than 12 months old by the time you're reading it, check the Cancer Institute NSW website for the current figures.

Because UV damage builds up over time and doesn't always show symptoms straight away, a periodic check with your GP, rather than waiting for a spot to look obviously serious, is a reasonable part of preventive care for many Illawarra residents.

Signs Worth Getting Checked Between Appointments

You don't need to wait for your next scheduled skin check if you notice a spot that is:

New — a spot or mole that wasn't there before. Changing, in size, shape or colour. Bleeding or crusting. Not healing over a period of weeks.

If any of these apply, it's worth having your GP take a look rather than waiting.

What Happens During a Skin Check, Step by Step

A conversation first. Your GP may ask about your sun exposure history, skin cancer history (personal or family) and anything you've noticed recently.

A visual examination. Your GP may examine your skin from head to toe, including areas that are easy to overlook, such as your scalp, back and between your toes.

A closer look if needed. If something looks different, your GP may use a dermatoscope, photograph the area, or measure a spot so it can be monitored over time.

A biopsy, if appropriate. If further investigation is recommended, a biopsy may be performed. At Crown West Medical, this can be done on site when clinically appropriate.

A clear next step. Your GP will explain what they've found and what, if anything, happens next.

What a Biopsy Involves

A skin biopsy is a small procedure to remove some or all of a suspicious spot so it can be examined more closely. Not every skin check leads to a biopsy, most don't, but when one is recommended, your GP will talk you through why, what's involved and what the possible outcomes mean for your next steps.

Skin Checks at Crown West Medical

Crown West Medical's Skin Cancer Clinic provides skin checks in the Wollongong CBD, with biopsy and treatment available on site when clinically appropriate. We also offer Sunday appointments from 10am to 5pm, which can make it easier to find a time that fits around your week. The clinic is located at 330 Crown Street, Wollongong.

A skin check is also a useful moment to raise anything else on your mind, whether that's a men's health concern or how you've been feeling generally. Your GP appointment isn't limited to a single topic.

FAQs

How often should I get a skin check?

This depends on your individual risk factors, including skin type, sun exposure history and family history. Ask your GP what a reasonable interval looks like for you.

Does a skin check hurt?

The examination itself is not painful. If a biopsy is recommended, your GP will explain the procedure and use local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable.

What should I wear to a skin check?

Loose, easy-to-remove clothing is helpful, since your GP may need to examine areas of skin not usually visible, such as your back or scalp.

Can a biopsy be done on the same day as my skin check?

At Crown West Medical, biopsy and treatment can be available on site when clinically appropriate. Your GP will discuss timing with you based on your individual situation.

Book a skin check at Crown West Medical via HotDoc, or call (02) 4228 4155.

This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Please see your GP to talk about what's right for you.