Yes, we can.
Dermoscopy is like wearing polarised sunglasses to see through the water. Optical biopsy takes it to the next level – it’s like diving into water and snorkelling. An optical biopsy allows us to move visually through your skin in 3D, examining your cells, blood vessels and connective tissue, all without making a cut. It’s quite amazing.
Absolutely. We offer optical biopsy, meaning we can investigate suspicious moles without cutting into your skin (in most cases). It is ideal for lesions on your face where you are understandably keen to protect your appearance and avoid the risk of scarring.
It depends on your level of risk. There is no nationally accepted guidance on how often you should have a skin check, although we know that people at higher risk of skin cancer may benefit from being seen every 3-6 months.
Following your initial skin check, our doctors will advise you on how often you should have checks based on our assessment and your individual characteristics.
If it has been a while since your last skin check or you are concerned about your moles, please book an appointment. Some skin cancers can grow very quickly, so please do not delay.
In the majority of cases, optical biopsy is used to detect skin cancer. This procedure is painless, non-invasive, and gives immediate results.
However, some lesions are not suitable for optical biopsy. In these cases, we recommend a surgical biopsy. We’ll explain the process to you carefully and ensure you’re comfortable with the procedure before we proceed.
It’s such a big risk that it’s been dubbed our national cancer. By the age of 70, two-thirds of Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer. Your risk varies with your skin type, level of sun exposure, medical history and the number of moles on your body (the more moles, the higher the risk).
AI helps in the detection process of skin cancer, but a trained and experienced doctor makes the investigation and diagnosis (if any).
It’s similar to using your GPS when driving. The GPS identifies the best route to your destination based on your set parameters, such as avoiding tolls.
In our screening process, your doctor similarly sets parameters. For example, we may tell the computer to show all moles over 6mm in diameter or all asymmetrical moles.
An accredited skin cancer doctor examines those images closely, using their medical skills and experience to judge which moles are suspicious.
No. At Skintel, we specialise in diagnosing skin conditions, but we do not provide treatment for skin cancer. Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that the expertise required for diagnosing skin cancer differs significantly from that needed for treatment. While skin cancer doctors and dermatologists are experts in identifying skin cancer, they do not possess the extensive 5-10 years of specialist surgical training that plastic and reconstructive surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons, and Mohs surgeons undergo. Therefore, we recommend consulting with a highly trained surgical specialist to provide comprehensive care for treatment.
As diagnostic experts, Skintel ensures that should you need treatment for skin cancer, you and your chosen surgical specialist will receive a thorough dossier from us, including all necessary information, photographs, and detailed reports to facilitate your care. We prioritise your autonomy in selecting your treatment path and specialist, unlike other clinics where you might be confined to the in-house treatment options.
Skintel hosts independent visiting doctors. If it is more convenient for you, we can explore the possibility of receiving your treatment on-site at Skintel with one of these visiting specialists.
Suite 101, 566 St Kilda Road,
Melbourne, VIC 3004
