Skin Cancer Screening & Surgery

Skin Cancer in Australia

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In Victoria, more than 14,000 new cases of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Early detection is the single most important factor in successful treatment — and regular skin checks by a trained GP are the most effective way to detect skin cancers early.

Comprehensive Skin Checks

Dr Chong performs thorough full-body skin examinations to identify suspicious lesions, including:

• Melanoma — the most dangerous form of skin cancer, arising from pigment cells
• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) — the most common skin cancer; slow-growing but locally invasive
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) — more aggressive than BCC; can spread to lymph nodes
• Solar keratoses (sunspots) — pre-cancerous lesions that can progress to SCC
• Seborrhoeic keratoses and other benign skin conditions

During a skin check, Dr Chong uses dermoscopy (a specialised magnifying device with polarised light) to examine lesions in detail, improving diagnostic accuracy beyond what is visible to the naked eye.

Who Should Have a Skin Check?

A skin check is recommended if you:

• Have fair skin, light eyes, or a history of significant sun exposure
• Have a personal or family history of skin cancer or melanoma
• Have noticed a new lesion or a change in an existing mole (change in size, colour, shape, or bleeding)
• Have not had a skin check in the past 2 years
• Work or spend significant time outdoors

The ABCDE rule for melanoma:

• Asymmetry — one half doesn't match the other
• Border — irregular, ragged, or blurred edges
• Colour — variation in colour within a single lesion
• Diameter — larger than 6 mm (though melanomas can be smaller)
• Evolving — any change in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms

Minor Surgical Procedures

Dr Chong has a surgical background and performs a range of minor surgical procedures in the GP setting:

• Surgical excision of suspicious and confirmed skin cancers
• Biopsy of uncertain lesions (shave, punch, or excision biopsy)
• Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) for solar keratoses and other benign lesions
• Curettage and cautery for superficial lesions
• Wound repair and suturing

Where a lesion requires specialist management (e.g., on the face, near vital structures, or pathology suggesting high-risk melanoma), Dr Chong will provide a prompt referral to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

How to Book

No referral is needed. Book a skin check appointment at Knox General Practice online via HotDoc or call (03) 9100 3130. Please allow adequate appointment time — full body skin checks require a longer appointment slot.