With the highest rates worldwide, approximately 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Early detection and prompt treatment of the skin cancer leads to a greater chance of a cure.

  • It is important to recognise there are different subtypes of skin cancers within each group that can carry very different prognoses.
  • Our dermatologists are trained to correctly diagnose and then suggest treatment that is suited to your specific diagnosis.
  • Wollongong Dermatology has a state of the art operating theatre and procedure rooms where both simple and complex procedures can be performed without the need to attend a day surgery or hospital.
  • The dermatologists and nursing staff at Wollongong Dermatology are highly trained and experienced - all are experts in the treatment of skin cancer.
  • Specimens that are collected are referred to Kossard Dermatopathology for interpretation. Professor Kossard and his team are considered the best in the country in this specialist field.

Skin cancer can be broadly divided into two types: The first is non-melanoma skin cancers, of which the most common examples are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Pre-cancerous forms of non melanoma skin cancer, or sun cancers, are known as sunspots or actinic keratosis. One in ten of these has the potential to convert into a skin cancer.

The other group, melanoma skin cancers, which are more dangerous but less common. These are the moles that change and grow and can spread through the body. With early diagnosis these are curable. Hence the importance of early detection. Therefore, any new or changing spot always needs to be reviewed by your Dermatologist.

Treatment is more likely to work well when cancer is found early. If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs. Therefore, it is important you have your skin checked by a specialist dermatologist who has the skills and training for early detection and management.

Precancerous lesions such as solar or actinic keratosis are commonly seen in those with fair skin, our dermatologists can diagnose and advise treatments for individual lesions as well as field therapies where appropriate – treatments include liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, cream options and photodynamic therapy.

Skin Cancer Treatments

  • Skin Cancer
    Surgery
  • Curettage
    and Cautery
  • Cryotherapy
    Treatment
  • Topical
    Treatments
  • Photodynamic
    Therapy
  • Radiation
    Therapy

Frequently asked questions

How common is skin cancer?

Approximately, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70. Non-melanoma skin cancer is more common in men, with almost double the incidence compared to women. Excluding non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australians.

Who gets skin cancer?

Everyone can get skin cancer. Most skin cancers are associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, and many people of color are less susceptible to UV damage thanks to the greater amounts of melanin darker skin produces. The risk for skin cancer is also higher in individuals with blond or red hair, blue or green eyes, or skin that burns or freckles easily.

What causes skin cancer?

Cancer occurs when the cells of the body are damaged, causing them to grow out of control. Skin cancer can grow when skin cells are damaged. In most cases this damage is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as solariums.

How do I spot a skin cancer?

Some dermatologists and doctors include skin exams as part of routine health check-ups. Many doctors also recommend that you check your own skin about once a month. Look at your skin in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. Use a hand-held mirror to look at areas that are hard to see. Use the “ABCDE rule” to look for some of the common signs of melanoma, this stands for Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter and Evolving.

What are my treatment options? Which treatment do you recommend and why?

The type of cancer treatment or combination of treatments that a patient has depends on the type and stage of the cancer. The most common types of cancer treatment are surgery, curette and cautery, photodynamic therapy, Imiquimod cream, cryotherapy and radiation therapy. Aggressive skin cancers usually require surgery or radiation therapy. Less aggressive skin cancers can be treated with non surgical means such as photodynamic therapy or Imiquimod cream for better cosmetic results.

What are the possible side effects of treatment?

Both surgery and curette and cautery have possible side effects:

  • Bleeding
    • The risk of post operative bleeding increases if you are taking blood thinners. Please inform your doctor if this is the case.
    • If bleeding occurs initially apply firm pressure to the wound for 10 - 15 minutes. If it continues please contact Wollongong Dermatology or your GP/Hospital after hours.
  • Infection
    • Signs of infection include increased pain, increased redness of wound or the development of puss. Please contact Wollongong Dermatology if this occurs. Infections usually require antibiotics.
  • Scarring
    • This is an inevitable result of surgery. However the dermatologists at Wollongong Dermatology are experts at minimising and treating scars.

Ready to get started on your good skin journey? Get in touch today.

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