Living in South East Queensland means spending plenty of time outdoors. While enjoying the sunshine is part of our lifestyle, regular exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can increase the risk of skin cancer over time. Queensland has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, making routine skin checks an important part of preventive healthcare.
If you live in Redland Bay, our experienced GPs provide comprehensive skin checks for patients who want to monitor their skin health or have concerns about new or changing spots.
Whether you’re due for a routine skin examination or you’ve noticed a mole or lesion that looks different, we’re here to help assess your skin and discuss the most appropriate next steps.
On this page:
What Is a Skin Check?
A skin check is a thorough examination of your skin performed by a GP in Redland Bay. During the appointment, your doctor will assess moles, freckles and other skin lesions across your body, looking for features that may require monitoring or further investigation.
If an area of concern is identified, your GP will explain their findings and discuss appropriate management options, which may include monitoring, biopsy, treatment or referral where clinically indicated.
Not every unusual spot is skin cancer, but having changes assessed promptly is important.
Who Should Have Regular Skin Checks?
Skin checks may be appropriate for adults of all ages, particularly those who have one or more risk factors, including the following:
- Fair skin that burns easily
- A history of significant sun exposure or sunburn
- Outdoor work or recreational activities
- A large number of moles
- Previous skin cancer
- A family history of melanoma or other skin cancers
- A weakened immune system
If you’re unsure how often you should have your skin checked, your GP from Redland Bay can provide personalised advice based on your individual risk factors.
Signs You Should Book a Skin Check
Arrange an appointment if you notice:
- A new mole or skin spot
- A mole that has changed in size, shape or colour
- A lesion that bleeds or crusts
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A spot that itches, becomes tender or painful
- Any skin change that concerns you
If you’re worried about any change to your skin, it’s important to seek medical assessment rather than attempting to diagnose it yourself.
How to prepare for your appointment
A few simple steps can make your skin check smoother:
- Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove
- Avoid heavy makeup or thick fake tan on the day
- Remove nail polish if you have any spots on your fingers or toes that you are worried about
- Bring a list of any previous skin cancers or biopsies, if you have it
If you are uncomfortable with a full body examination, let your Redland Bay GP know. You can agree together which areas will be checked.
What Happens During Your Appointment in Redland Bay?
Your in Redland Bay GP will:
- Discuss your medical and skin history
- Ask about any new or changing spots you’ve noticed.
- Examine your skin, including areas that are difficult for you to see yourself
- Use dermoscopy where appropriate to assist with the assessment of skin lesions
- Explain any findings and recommend suitable follow-up if required
The appointment is designed to be thorough while allowing time to answer any questions you may have.
Skin Monitoring Technology
Where clinically appropriate, our clinic uses high-quality imaging and dermoscopy to assist with the assessment and documentation of skin lesions.
For some patients, photographic documentation may help monitor changes in selected lesions over time as part of an ongoing skin surveillance plan. The suitability of this approach depends on your individual circumstances and will be discussed during your consultation.
Why Regular Skin Checks Matter
Many skin cancers can develop without causing pain or other symptoms in their early stages. Regular skin examinations can help identify suspicious lesions that may require further investigation.
Redland Bay GP will recommend an appropriate review schedule based on your personal risk profile, previous history and examination findings.
Skin Checks for Redland Bay Residents
Our clinic welcomes patients from Redland Bay and surrounding suburbs seeking comprehensive skin examinations.
We provide:
- Full skin examinations
- Assessment of new or changing moles
- Dermoscopic examination where appropriate
- Ongoing skin surveillance for higher-risk patients
- Advice on sun protection and skin health
- Management plans tailored to your individual needs
Introducing our new service
Total Body Mapping (TBM)
Track your skin’s story with precision. If you have fair skin, a history of sunburns, or many moles, Total Body Mapping creates a consistent baseline so your GP can spot changes over time.