Why Your Skin Check Needs a Surgical Eye

Living in a High-UV Hotspot

The Illawarra lifestyle is defined by the outdoors. Whether you are surfing at North Beach or hiking the escarpment, the Australian sun is a constant companion. However, our coastal lifestyle comes with a high biological cost. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and in a high-exposure area like Wollongong, a "quick look" at your moles is often insufficient.

The Clinical Edge of Dr Rui Feitosa

At Crown West Medical, our Skin Cancer Clinic is led by Dr Rui Feitosa (FRACGP). Dr Rui brings over 20 years of clinical experience to the practice, including a significant tenure as a Surgical Registrar in the Melanoma and Plastic Surgery Units at both RPA and Wollongong Hospital.

This background is critical. A doctor with surgical training doesn't just see a "spot"; they understand the underlying tissue architecture. This perspective allows for a more nuanced assessment of which lesions require a "watch and wait" approach and which require immediate clinical intervention.

Identifying the "Invisible" Cancer

While most patients are trained to look for dark, irregular moles (the "ABCD" criteria), some of the most aggressive skin cancers are Amelanotic Melanomas. These cancers lack melanin, meaning they have no colour. They often appear as harmless pink bumps, firm spots, or even look like old scars.

Without specialized tools, these can be easily missed. Dr Rui utilises polarised dermoscopy, a non-invasive technology that cancels out surface reflections. This allows the clinician to see deep into the dermal layer to identify unique vascular patterns—the tiny blood vessel structures that feed a growing cancer—long before they are visible to the naked eye.

Continuity: From Detection to Removal

One of the primary benefits of our clinic is the continuity of care. If a suspicious lesion is identified, Dr Rui is equipped to perform biopsies and complex surgical removals on-site at our Crown Street location. This integrated approach reduces the anxiety of long waiting lists and ensures that the clinician who diagnosed the spot is the one meticulously managing its removal.

Don't leave your skin health to chance. Secure your peace of mind with a comprehensive check. Skin Cancer Clinic is available at Crown West Medical. Book now.

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