What's the benefit of a Full Skin Check?
After prevention, the best strategy for skin cancer is early detection. A skin check at The Dermoscopy Centre can help detect skin cancers at an early stage, when they are easily treatable.
Do I need a GP referral?
Often a GP will refer to us, but it isn’t a requirement. You can make an appointment without a referral, just call us on 03 310 7315.
How long will it take?
A Full Skin Check typically takes about forty five minutes, some less, some more.
Undressing?
Your privacy will always be respected; the doctor will only ask you to strip down to your underwear, a sheet and blanket is available, and if you wish, you may ask to be accompanied by a relative or friend, or to ask for another staff member to be present.
If you need help undressing or dressing, you are very welcome to bring someone who you would like to assist you.
What about make up?
The examination is a systematic review of your skin from head to toe; if you would normally wear make up, or nail polish, please remove these before your appointment.
What happens after the examination?
After the examination, the doctor will discuss any concerns, and if anything requiring further attention has been identified, work through the next step options relevant to your circumstances. Where required, The Dermoscopy Centre team will take care of organising any follow-up treatments, referrals etc.
How often should I have a skin check?
This varies, and is dependent on your lifestyle and clinical histories, as well as the outcomes of the examination. As part of the skin check process, a time frame, specifically for you, will be suggested for your next skin check.
You should however always remain alert to change and the doctor will explain a process of self- checking and provide some material for you to share with your family, so that they can help you, and themselves, to know the early signs of skin cancer, and what to do if these are discovered.
If a recall period was advised The Dermoscopy Centre will also post out a reminder as and when this becomes due.
Will you let my GP know how it went?
The Dermoscopy Centre team will also prepare a comprehensive report, including any relevant dermoscopic images, and, with your permission, send this to your GP so that your records there can be maintained.
Your GP is the key player in your primary care, and apart from the report, its usual practice to keep them informed of any treatment that arises. Again, this is of course, subject to your permission being given.
Our images are retained using secure and encrypted systems so that the records of today, are available tomorrow.
I’m expecting a baby; is it safe to have a skin check?
Absolutely safe.
Still Have Questions or are Unsure?
Get in touch with one of our friendly and discreet staff members by completing the form or call us on 03 310 7315
