Skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis are central to care at Atlas Dermatology. Australia’s high UV exposure means many people develop sun damage or changing spots over time. Careful assessment helps detect concerns early, when treatment is simpler and outcomes are better.
With extensive experience in medical dermatology and dermoscopic skin examination, we focus on distinguishing harmless lesions from precancerous or cancerous changes. Regular skin checks and tailored surveillance plans help patients understand their risk and feel confident in their ongoing care.
If you have noticed a new or changing spot, or would like a routine full skin check, please contact us to arrange an appointment.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, and early detection remains vital. At Atlas Dermatology we assess all types of skin lesions using dermoscopy, allowing close visualisation. For patients who need long-term monitoring, we offer clinical and dermoscopic photographic mapping with FotoFinder® technology to support early detection.
Biopsies can usually be performed on the same day if needed. When treatment is required, options range from minimally invasive procedures to more complex dermatologic surgery performed onsite.
Who is at higher risk?
– Light or sun-sensitive skin
– Past sunburns or tanning
– Living or growing up in Australia
– Family history of melanoma
– Numerous or changing moles
– Immunosuppression
Our approach
– Early, accurate diagnosis
– Clear explanation of findings and options
– Surgical care focused on full removal with the best possible cosmetic outcome
– Thoughtful follow-up and long-term surveillance
Types of Skin Cancer We Treat
Melanoma
A serious form of skin cancer requiring prompt recognition and careful management. Early melanoma is highly treatable.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
A slow-growing cancer that can appear as a pearly bump, pink patch or non-healing spot.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
A faster-growing cancer that may crust, bleed or become tender. Early treatment minimises the risk of spread.
When Surgery Is Needed
Procedures are performed onsite in purpose-built rooms for dermatologic surgery. If you have a new or changing spot, or would like a skin check, please contact us for an appointment.
Regular Skin Checks
Routine skin examinations are recommended, especially for those at higher risk. Ongoing surveillance helps detect changes early and reduces the need for more invasive treatment later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a skin check?
A full skin check includes examining the skin from head to toe using dermoscopy. Suspicious lesions are discussed, and monitoring, biopsy or treatment may be recommended. FotoFinder® mole mapping is available for long-term surveillance.
Will I need a biopsy?
A biopsy may be recommended if a lesion needs clarification. It is performed with local anaesthetic, and results are usually available within several days.
How are skin cancers treated?
Treatment depends on the lesion and may include topical creams, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy or surgery. Surgery is performed onsite with a focus on complete removal and optimal cosmetic outcome.
Private health funds do not cover skin cancer procedures performed outside private hospitals. However, when surgery is done in a hospital setting, there are usually additional costs such as consultation fees with a surgeon, and out-of-pocket gap fees for both the surgeon and the anaesthetist. This often results in a significantly higher overall cost compared to having the procedure performed in a private clinic like Atlas Dermatology.
The fees you pay for procedures in a private clinic like ours contribute towards your Medicare Safety Net threshold. This means that once you reach the threshold in a calendar year, Medicare provides a higher rebate for subsequent eligible medical services, helping to reduce ongoing costs.
How much does treatment cost?
Out-of -pocket costs vary depending on the lesion’s size and location. A clear quote is provided before treatment.
Surgical Treatments
Curettage and Cautery
A minimally invasive treatment for certain superficial skin cancers and precancerous lesions. The area is numbed, the lesion is removed, and the base is cauterised. Healing is generally quick and does not require stitches.
Surgical Excision
Used when full removal is the most reliable option. Performed under local anaesthetic in dedicated procedure rooms. The lesion is removed with a small margin of normal skin, and the wound is repaired carefully. Larger or more complex repairs may require layered closure, flaps or grafts. Specimens are sent to pathology to confirm complete removal.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Some lesions can be treated non-surgically with:
– Topical immune-modulating creams
– Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic Therapy
PDT treats certain precancerous lesions and some superficial skin cancers. A light-sensitive cream is applied, then activated by a controlled light source. Atlas Dermatology offers artificial daylight PDT, which provides gentler light exposure and improved comfort. PDT targets abnormal cells while preserving healthy skin and usually requires minimal downtime. It is especially useful for larger areas of sun damage.
Cryotherapy
A quick freezing treatment used for some sun spots and superficial lesions.