Skin Checks · Adelaide GP
Skin checks in Adelaide
Thorough, unhurried, and clearly explained, from a GP with formal training in skin cancer medicine.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, and South Australia's sunshine makes that risk very real for all of us. A proper skin check, done well and explained clearly, is one of the most straightforward things you can do for your health.
Australia has the highest rate of melanoma in the world.
That's not a figure designed to alarm, it's a fact worth knowing, because it shapes how we should all approach our skin health here. South Australia's climate means significant UV exposure across much of the year, and many of us grew up in an era before sun-safe habits were routine.
The reassuring side of the picture is equally true: when skin cancer is caught early, outcomes are very good. Melanoma detected at an early stage has a five-year survival rate of around 94%, according to Cancer Australia. The difference between early and late detection is significant, and that's exactly where a regular skin check earns its place.
Most spots turn out to be nothing concerning. But the ones that do matter are far better found in a clinic than discovered later when they've had time to change.
Things I hear regularly, and what's actually true
These come up in the consult room more than you'd think. Getting the facts right is part of getting the care right.
What actually happens at a skin check
Skin checks at my clinic are unhurried and clearly explained at every step. You'll always know what I'm looking at, what I'm thinking, and what I'm recommending, before anything happens.
History
We start with a conversation, your skin type, history of sunburn or sun exposure, any personal or family history of skin cancer, and anything you've noticed or been concerned about. This context shapes what I'm looking for.
Full skin examination
A systematic head-to-toe skin check. I look carefully at each area, not just the spots you've flagged. Skin cancer often turns up where patients least expect it.
Dermoscopy where needed
For lesions that warrant a closer look, I use a dermoscope, a handheld instrument that illuminates and magnifies the skin's surface. It helps distinguish lesions that need attention from those that don't.
Clear explanation
I explain what I've found in plain language, what each lesion looks like, what I think it is, and why. If I'm uncertain, I'll say so, and tell you what the next step is. Nothing is left vague.
Management plan
If a lesion needs to be removed, biopsied, or monitored, I'll explain exactly what that involves before we proceed. You'll know what the procedure is, what we're hoping to find out, what the result might mean, and what happens next.
Your appointment
A skin check is a dedicated appointment. Please book it separately rather than adding it to the end of a general consultation, particularly if you'd like a full-body check.
Telehealth is not suitable for skin checks. These require an in-person appointment.
Simple cases, resolved here.
For straightforward lesions, I can assess and treat in-clinic without the need for a specialist referral. Where a case is more complex or would benefit from specialist input, I refer clearly, and I'll tell you why. The two approaches work well together.
Punch biopsy
A small circular sample of skin is taken under local anaesthetic. Used when a definitive diagnosis requires pathology, I'll explain what we're looking for and what the result will mean for your care.
Shave excision
A raised lesion is shaved flush with the skin under local anaesthetic. Can be used for diagnosis and, in appropriate cases, treatment. A clear and common option for many superficial lesions.
Elliptical excision
A lesion is removed with a margin of surrounding skin and the wound is closed with sutures. Used where full excision is the appropriate management, I'll explain the margins and what we're aiming for before proceeding.
Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen)
Targeted application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy certain lesions. Commonly used for solar keratoses and some other benign or pre-cancerous spots. Quick, well-tolerated, and effective for appropriate lesions.
Qualified to assess. Happy to refer.
I've completed formal postgraduate training in both skin cancer medicine and dermoscopy because I want to bring more to a skin check than a visual glance and basic training.
In practice, that means I can assess most lesions with confidence, manage straightforward cases in-clinic, and know when something warrants specialist input. When a dermatologist is the right next step, whether for a complex lesion, a high-risk patient, or a case where I want a second opinion, I refer without hesitation and explain clearly why.
My approach is collaborative. Most patients do best when their GP and their specialist are working in the same direction, with good communication at each step. I'm always happy to be part of that team.
Things patients often ask
Ready to book a skin check?
Unhurried, clearly explained care. New patients welcome. Book online or call during business hours.
Glenelg's GP, close to home.
Serving Glenelg, Glenelg North, Glenelg East, Brighton, Hove, Seacliff, Seacliff Park, Somerton Park, Plympton, Plympton Park, Morphettville, Marion, Warradale, Oaklands Park and surrounding southern Adelaide suburbs.
Also serving: Ascot Park, Mitchell Park, Edwardstown, South Plympton, and surrounding suburbs.
Book a skin check
New patients welcome. Book a dedicated skin check appointment, online in minutes, or call us during business hours.
Book online via HotDoc Or call us: 08 8295 2167