Our top tier consultant dermatologists are highly experienced in performing skin cancer surgery and also train and mentor others in the field. Our long standing team of doctors specialise in surgical and non-surgical treatments of melanoma and non melanoma skin cancers.
We pride ourselves on minimising the functional and cosmetic impact of excision scars (which always result from surgery) and also offer specialist post-operative management, including lasers, and other treatments, to further reduce the appearance of scars.
Your doctor will advise on the most suitable options to help you make an informed choice about the treatment options. After careful diagnosis, a definitive treatment plan will be discussed with you and scheduled.
What to expect
Where will my procedure be performed?
Our doctors deliver effective and convenient surgical and non surgical solutions at our rooms in Brisbane City. Most surgery can be carried out comfortably at our on site surgical suites in a single treatment with external sutures removed (if required) 5-14 days later.
For larger surgical procedures and skin grafts our dermatologists treat patients at Greenslopes Private Hospital under anaesthesia.
For eligible patients medicare rebates almost always apply and eligible health fund rebates are available to those with cover treated in hospital.
Will my skin cancer be treated with surgery or non-surgical methods?
Our doctors will first provide a thorough examination, confirm diagnosis and discuss the best treatment options based on your concern.
Some low risk skin cancers are suitable for non-surgical treatment, including certain prescription creams, photodynamic therapy and cryotherapy.
All melanoma and most squamous cell carcinomas and higher risk basal cell carcinomas (morpheic, sclerosing, recurrent) are unsuitable for non-surgical treatments, and almost always require excision.
Do I need to do anything beforehand?
It is best if you shower and wear clean clothing prior to attending your appointment. Taking some analgesic half an hour before your appointment, such as Paracetamol can also help to keep you comfortable. Do not take aspirin or nurofen as it tends to cause increased bleeding.
If you regularly take blood thinners this may need to be ceased prior to your operation and your doctor will discuss this with you.
If you have any allergies to tape, dressings, creams or medications, it is also important to tell your doctor.
What happens during my treatment?
Most minor surgical procedures involve injection of a local anaesthetic to numb the area. The skin cancer is removed and the site is repaired with sutures. The wound will be dressed and you will be supplied with post operative instructions for wound care.
What happens afterwards?
A follow up visit is organised 5 to 14 days later for removal of sutures. The timing of removal is dependent upon the type and location of the surgery. At this visit you will be advised of your pathology results and if any further treatment is required. Further skin check visits are usually scheduled for follow up.
What is the out of pocket cost?
The out of pocket cost may vary depending on the size, complexity, number of lesions, location and the method of treatment. For a treatment quote and out of pocket estimate we require a consultation and assessment with our skin cancer doctors and dermatologists.