Queensland has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, so regular skin checks are not a luxury. They are part of looking after your health, just like a blood pressure or cholesterol check.
At Sunstate Family Practice in Victoria Point, the GPs offer thorough skin checks that fit within your broader health care. We look after your moles and your general health at the same visit, which makes life simpler.
If you cannot remember your last skin check, that is usually a sign it has been too long.
Introducing our new service
Total Body Mapping (TBM)
Skin Check or Total Body Mapping?
Skin Check
- Suitable for most adults as part of regular skin cancer monitoring.
- Recommended if you have noticed a new, changing or unusual spot.
- Your GP examines your skin using a dermatoscope.
- Focuses on identifying spots that may need monitoring, biopsy or removal.
- Often performed annually, depending on your risk factors.
Total Body Mapping
- Often helpful for people with many moles, freckles or sun-damaged skin.
- Useful when it is difficult to monitor multiple moles over time.
- Includes comprehensive photographic imaging alongside your skin check.
- Creates a baseline photographic record for future comparison.
- May be recommended for people who need closer ongoing skin monitoring.
You may benefit from a skin check if:
- You have not had a skin check in the last 12 months.
- You have noticed a new or changing spot.
- You have a sore that is not healing.
- You spend a lot of time outdoors.
- You have a history of skin cancer, melanoma or pre-cancerous lesions.
- You simply want your skin checked by a GP.
You may wish to ask about Total Body Mapping if:
- You have a large number of moles or freckles.
- You have fair skin or a history of sunburn.
- You have a personal or family history of melanoma.
- Your doctor has recommended closer monitoring.
- You find it difficult to keep track of changes between skin checks.
- You want a consistent photographic baseline for future comparison.
Not sure which appointment is right for you? Contact our team or book a skin check appointment and your GP can discuss whether Total Body Mapping may be appropriate for your situation.
Why regular skin checks matter in the Redlands
Living in bayside suburbs like Victoria Point, Redland Bay and Wellington Point often means a lifetime of sun exposure. Even if you are careful now, many people carry damage from earlier years.
A regular skin check can help your GP:
- Pick up new or changing spots earlier
- Decide which moles need monitoring and which need a closer look
- Plan follow up and prevention that fits your personal risk
Finding skin cancer earlier means treatment is more likely to be effective, which is why there is so much emphasis placed on getting checked regularly.
When to book a skin check
Book a skin cancer check with your GP if any of the following sound familiar:
- You have not had a full skin check in the last 12 months
- You notice a new spot that looks different from your other moles
- A mole or spot has changed in size, shape, colour, or feel
- You have a sore that does not heal within a few weeks
- You have a history of skin cancer, melanoma, or pre-cancerous lesions
- You have many moles, very fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or you work outdoors for long periods
Bear in mind, that you do not need to wait to see something that is “obviously worrying”. If you are unsure about that mole or freckle, let your GP check it.
What happens during your skin check
A skin check with the GPs at Sunstate Family Practice is straightforward, albeit whilst undertaken carefully.
Your GP will usually:
- Talk through your history
- Past skin cancers or biopsies.
- Family history of melanoma.
- Any current spots or moles that concern you.
- Examine your skin
- This may be a full skin examination or a more focused check, depending on what you are comfortable with.
- You will be offered appropriate draping or a gown, and a chaperone if you would like one.
- Use a dermatoscope
- This is a special magnifying light that lets your GP see structures in the skin that are not visible to the naked eye.
- It helps them decide which spots are reassuring and which may need closer follow up.
If anything looks suspicious, your GP will discuss next steps, which might include monitoring, a biopsy, or removal of the lesion at the practice or via referral, depending on what is clinically appropriate.
*This information is general. Your doctor will tailor the skin check to your needs and risk factors.
Skin checks for Victoria Point and surrounding suburbs
Sunstate Family Practice is located at 127 Link Road, Victoria Point, within easy reach of:
Many of our patients fit a skin check into their usual GP care. Some book a dedicated longer appointment once a year and use that as their yearly “skin audit”.
If you live or work anywhere in the Redlands and need a skin cancer check or a mole check, our team is happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be doing my skin check?
Skin checks at Sunstate Family Practice are done by GPs, several of whom have a special interest in skin cancer detection and management, dermatology and minor skin procedures.
Because we are a family practice, your doctor can link what they see on your skin with your broader health picture. For example, they might consider how your medications, immune system, or other conditions influence your risk and your treatment options.
If your GP thinks you would benefit from seeing a dermatologist or a dedicated skin cancer surgeon, they will discuss a referral with you.
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 GP know. You can agree together which areas will be checked.
Booking a skin cancer check
You do not need a referral to see a GP for a skin check.
You can:
- Book online and choose a skin check appointment type, or
- Call our reception team on (07) 3207 7744 to arrange a time that suits you
If you have many moles, a strong history of skin cancer, or you think you may need Total Body Mapping, let the reception team know so that they can help you book an appointment length that gives your GP enough time.