Local Skin Cancer
Care in Oberon

In Australia, anyone can develop skin cancer — but some people have a higher risk and should have their skin checked more regularly.

You should see a doctor (such as a GP or skin cancer–experienced doctor) for a professional skin examination if you have one or more of the following risk factors:

Higher-risk factors

• A personal history of skin cancer (melanoma or non-melanoma), or a family history of melanoma
• Fair or freckled skin, light or red hair, light-coloured eyes, or skin that burns easily and doesn’t tan
• Many moles (for example, more than 100), or atypical/irregular moles
• Significant sun exposure, especially during outdoor work or recreation, or a history of severe sunburns or solarium use
• A weakened immune system (for example, after an organ transplant, or due to certain medications or chronic illness)

Book a check immediately if you notice:

• A new mole or spot that wasn’t there before
• A spot or mole changing in size, shape, or colour
• A spot that bleeds, itches, scabs, or doesn’t heal
• A sore or patch of skin that persists or changes over time

For people at average or below-average risk, the key advice is to:

• Know your own skin and check it regularly (every 2–3 months at home)
• Protect yourself from UV radiation by following sun safety practices
• See a doctor promptly if you notice anything new, changing, or unusual

At Wise Health Skin Plus  your comfort and confidence are our priority.
A professional skin check is a simple, non-invasive appointment where one of our experienced doctors carefully examines your skin for any signs of sun damage or skin cancer.

Here’s what to expect during your visit:

1. Discussion of your skin and medical history

Your doctor will start by asking a few questions about:

• Your medical and family history, including any previous skin cancers
• Your sun exposure habits and use of sun protection
• Any spots or moles that have changed or concern you

This helps identify if you are at higher risk and ensures the check is focused and thorough.

2. Full-body skin examination

Your doctor will perform a head-to-toe examination of your skin, including areas not often exposed to the sun (like your scalp, ears, and the soles of your feet).

• You may be asked to remove some clothing, keeping underwear on — a gown or drape will be provided for privacy.
• The doctor uses a dermatoscope, a special magnifying light, to examine spots in detail and detect features invisible to the naked eye.

  3. Discussion of your results

At the end of the check, your doctor will:

• Explain any findings in clear terms
• Let you know if a biopsy (small sample for testing) or treatment is needed
• Advise when you should have your next skin check — based on your risk level and skin type

4. Sun safety and skin care advice

You’ll receive tailored recommendations on how to:

• Protect your skin from UV radiation
• Perform regular self-skin checks at home
• Monitor for any new or changing spots

A standard full-body skin check usually takes 15–30 minutes, depending on your skin type and number of moles.

In Australia, we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world — which makes regular skin checks an important part of looking after your health.

How often you should get checked depends on your risk

For most people (average or low risk)

There is no set national recommendation for how often you need a full-body skin check if you’re at average risk.
Cancer Council Australia advises that you:

• Get to know your own skin,
• Check your skin regularly (every 2–3 months at home), and
• Book a professional skin check if you notice any new or changing spots, moles, or freckles.

For people at higher risk

If you have any of the following risk factors, professional skin checks are recommended every 6 to 12 months:

Your doctor may advise more frequent checks based on your personal history and skin type.

In between professional checks

• Perform a self-skin check every 2–3 months, using a mirror or a partner’s help.
• Look for new, changing, or unusual spots — especially those that are different from others (“the ugly duckling” sign).
• If you notice a spot that changes in size, colour, or shape, or one that itches, bleeds, or doesn’t heal, book an appointment immediately.

Yes, we do. We provide treatments on-site with two specialist doctors available.

Yes, we can provide services for patients who are unable to travel to Oberon.

No. A referral is not required to book an appointment. However, if you do have a referral, we are happy to accept it.

Wise Health is a mixed-billing clinic. Please speak with our friendly reception team for more details.