Patient Information
Skin Cancer Frequently Asked Questions
These skin cancer frequently asked questions provide general information about skin checks, moles, dermoscopy, biopsies and follow-up.
If you have a specific concern about a new or changing lesion, a clinical assessment is recommended.
How often should I have a skin check?
There is no single interval that is right for everyone. The appropriate frequency depends on factors such as:
- Personal history of skin cancer
- Family history
- Number and type of moles
- Sun exposure
- Skin type
- Previous biopsy results
- Individual risk factors
Your doctor can recommend an appropriate review interval after assessment.
What should I do if I notice a changing mole?
Arrange a medical assessment if you notice a mole that is new or changing in:
- Size
- Shape
- Colour
- Border
- Surface
- Symptoms
A lesion that looks different from your other moles should also be assessed.
What is dermoscopy?
Dermoscopy is a non-invasive technique that uses magnification and specialised lighting to examine structures within a skin lesion that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Does dermoscopy diagnose every skin cancer?
No. Dermoscopy assists clinical assessment, but some lesions require biopsy or excision for a definitive diagnosis.
Will every suspicious mole need a biopsy?
No. Depending on the findings, a lesion may be:
- Monitored
- Photographed
- Reassessed
- Biopsied
- Excised
- Referred for specialist review
Does a biopsy hurt?
Local anaesthetic is commonly used for skin biopsy procedures. You may feel the initial anaesthetic injection and some pressure during the procedure, but the area is usually numb while the biopsy is taken.
How long do pathology results take?
Turnaround times vary depending on:
- Pathology provider
- Type of specimen
- Complexity of the test
- Whether additional analysis is required
How you will receive your results is discussed at your appointment.
What happens if skin cancer is diagnosed?
The next step depends on the type of skin cancer, its size and location, the pathology findings and patient factors. Management may include:
- Excision
- Other minor procedures
- Topical treatment for selected lesions
- Monitoring
- Referral to another specialist where required
Can I have a skin check if I am worried about only one mole?
Yes. You can book an assessment for a specific lesion or discuss whether a full skin check is also appropriate.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Where relevant, bring:
- Previous pathology reports
- Previous skin cancer records
- Photographs showing change over time
- A list of medications
- Details of previous biopsies or surgery
When should I seek more urgent medical review?
Seek timely medical assessment for a lesion that:
- Is changing rapidly
- Repeatedly bleeds without obvious trauma
- Does not heal
- Becomes persistently ulcerated
- Changes significantly in appearance
This website cannot assess urgent problems. If you are acutely unwell, call 000 or attend an emergency department. For a rapidly changing lesion, contact your GP or the clinic promptly.
Next step
Arrange a consultation
Assessment in person is the only way to work out what is causing a skin concern and what can reasonably be done about it. Fees are explained before anything is arranged.
Medical disclaimer
This page is general information only and is not a diagnosis, a treatment recommendation, or a substitute for individual medical advice. Conditions that look similar can have different causes, and what is suitable for one person may not be suitable for another. If you are unwell, in significant pain, or worried about a rapidly changing symptom, seek medical care promptly. In an emergency call 000.
- Written for patients by
- Dr Benyamin Mansoori, cosmetic physician & skin cancer doctor
- Medically reviewed by
- Dr Benyamin Mansoori (MD, FRACGP, FACCSM), AHPRA MED0002097300
- Last medically reviewed