Skin cancer is common in Australia, so keeping an eye on your skin matters. At Mediclinic, you can book a skin check in Clayton South with one of our GPs or our Nurse Practitioner. We look at any spots that worry you, check your skin for changes, and can remove or test suspicious lesions where needed.
Skin cancer found early is usually easier to treat. If you notice a new spot, or one that is changing, don’t wait for your next routine check.
Who you can see for a skin check in Clayton
Nurse Practitioner Vara Perikala
Vara holds a Professional Certificate of Skin Cancer Medicine and a Professional Certificate in Dermatology. She sees patients for mole checks, skin conditions such as eczema and acne, and skin cancer prevention.
Dr Robina Hanafi
Dr Hanafi is a GP with a special interest in skin checks.
Dr Xue-Feng Hu
Dr Hu has a special interest in skin cancer and minor surgical procedures.
What happens at a skin check
Tell us your concerns
We ask about your history, sun exposure, past skin cancers and family history, and about any spots you have noticed.
Skin examination
Your practitioner checks your skin, including areas that are hard to see yourself. You can ask for a chaperone.
Dermatoscopy
Spots of concern are examined with a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifying light that shows patterns under the skin surface.
Next steps
If a spot looks suspicious, we may suggest a biopsy, an excision, monitoring, or a referral.
Skin procedures we offer
- Dermatoscopy: a closer look at moles and spots.
- Biopsy: a small sample of skin is taken under local anaesthetic and sent to pathology for testing.
- Shave biopsy: the top layers of a raised spot are shaved off and tested.
- Excision: the whole spot is cut out under local anaesthetic, the wound is stitched, and the sample is sent for testing.
- Skin tag removal: removal of small, harmless skin growths.
Your practitioner will explain the procedure, the possible risks such as bleeding, infection and scarring, and the aftercare. Whether a procedure is suitable for you is assessed individually.
After an excision, you may need to come back for a wound check or stitch removal. See wound care and minor procedures.
Know your skin. Check your own skin regularly and see us if you notice a spot that is new, changing in size, shape or colour, itchy, bleeding, or that looks different from your other spots.
Fees for skin checks and excisions
Skin excisions have a $55 gap fee, plus the consultation fee with its Medicare rebate (Level B or C). Minor skin removals, such as skin tags removed for cosmetic reasons, attract a private fee. Pathology testing of samples may be billed separately by the laboratory.
Mediclinic is a mixed-billing practice. Bulk billing for consultations may be offered at the practitioner’s discretion for some eligible patients. Fees may change, so see /fees/ or ask reception.
How often should I have a skin check?
It depends on your risk. People with fair skin, lots of moles, a history of skin cancer or a family history may need more regular checks. Your practitioner can advise you.
Do I need a referral for a skin check?
No. You can book directly with one of our GPs or Nurse Practitioner Vara Perikala at /book/ or by calling (03) 9544 1555.
Can you remove a spot on the same day?
Sometimes. It depends on the spot and the time available. Often we will book a separate procedure appointment so enough time is set aside.
How much does a skin excision cost?
There is a $55 gap fee plus the consultation fee less your Medicare rebate. Laboratory fees may also apply. Fees may change, so see /fees/ or ask reception.
Does it hurt?
Biopsies and excisions are done under local anaesthetic. You will usually feel a brief sting from the injection, then pressure rather than pain. The area may be sore for a few days afterwards.
Can you remove skin tags?
Yes. Skin tag removal is available. Removal for cosmetic reasons attracts a private fee.