Skin Cancer Check
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in New Zealand and early detection can make a big difference to the success of your treatment.
Over 90,000 New Zealanders are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancers each year and over 2700 are diagnosed with melanoma*. It can occur at any time and your risk increases with age.
The good news is early detection increases your chance of successful treatment.
Protect Yourself
Daily sun protection with sunscreen, sunhats and long-sleeved clothing is important in reducing the risk of skin cancer. Checking your own skin every few weeks and showing any changes to a doctor for assessment is the way many skin cancers are detected.
An annual Skin Cancer Check will identify both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (such as Squamous cell cancers – “SCC’s”, and Basal cell cancers – “BCC’s”). Early detection, particularly on the head and neck, can be life-saving.
Epsom Medical Centre offers both Full Skin Checks and Spot Clinics (to check 1-2 new or changing moles).
Our Skin Check Services
Full Skin Cancer Check: (15 minute appointment) $60
A careful and thorough examination of your skin will identify any lesions of concern. If any irregular lesions are identified a treatment plan, that may involve cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen), biopsy, surgery or referral to a specialist, will be discussed.
Cryotherapy can often be done during the appointment and a punch biopsy may be available on the same day.
Your history of skin cancer, skin type and age all influence how often you should schedule a full skin cancer check.
We recommend you get checked as follows:
- previous skin cancer every 6 – 12 months
- sun-damaged skin every 12 months
- 40 years+ every 1-2 years
“Spot Check” clinic (7 minute appointment) $30
This clinic is a great option if you have had one or two new skin lesions develop or change. The doctor will closely examine the moles of concern and, if any lesions require further management, will discuss the best treatment plan.
Currently, our Spot Clinic runs on Wednesday afternoons and must be booked by emailing us with your details.
Read more about Skin Cancer Procedures at Epsom Medical Centre.
Further Treatment Fees
- Cryotherapy $10-20
- Referral $25
- Biopsy or removal costs will vary depending on the lesion