Streamlining your pathway to skin cancer treatment

Yes, anyone can book a treatment consultation with MoleMap. You do not need to be an existing MoleMap patient. If you have received a skin cancer diagnosis from another provider, simply bring your report (if you have one) with you to your consultation for the doctor to review.

Please bring a copy of your diagnosis report (if you have one), as well as a list of all your current medications. You’ll also need your Medicare card and private health insurance details (if applicable).

Yes. If you do not have a diagnosis report but want to discuss suitable treatments for removing a concerning mole or lesion, you can book a consultation with the doctor. Please note, this is not a skin check or diagnosis appointment. If you’d like to seek a diagnosis before discussing treatment options, please see our skin check services.

Yes, please visit our page on the Cosmetic Removal of Moles for more information about this treatment and how to book a consult.

Some treatments for skin cancer​ may be eligible for Medicare rebates. Your clinic will inform you whether this applies to your treatment at your consultation once your doctor has confirmed your personalised treatment plan.

If you have private health insurance, we will provide you with the item codes that you can quote to your insurer and confirm if and how much you may be eligible to claim.

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Exposure to the sun is a key cause of melanoma. An important thing to remember is that UV damage over time all adds up, increasing the risk for skin cancer later in life. Skin cancer can also be found in non-exposed skin. Some skin cancers can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. This is why regular skin checks are essential. However, there are other risk factors to be aware of too. Check out the sev­en risk fac­tors of skin can­cer. To find out your individual risk, take our quick risk check quiz.

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There are different types of treatment for skin cancer, so the side effects may vary depending on the type of skin cancer and how it is treated. For example, minor surgery for cancers that have not spread to other parts of the body can be performed quickly, under local anaesthetic. In this case, any side effects are likely to be minimal. You may experience mild pain, swelling or bruising and a small scar.

The most common side effect of photodynamic therapy is sensitivity to light. This may cause some itching or burning on the top layer of the skin. You may also notice redness or rash. Avoiding sunlight and using a cold-water spray or local anaesthetic may help alleviate these symptoms. 

Potential side effects of cryotherapy may include mild soreness and blistering prior to a crust forming on the wound. The skin may also appear lighter or darker in the treated area. Side effects may be different depending on which parts of the body are undergoing treatment, as some areas are more sensitive.

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Yes, as part of your treatment consultation your doctor will advise on the potential side effects and how to care for your skin after treatment.

Taking good care of your skin can support wound healing and your general health. In some cases, the skin may feel itchy. Try not to scratch as this may slow the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Following surgical skin cancer treatment, it’s important to keep the wound clean and follow the advice provided by your medical professional. Watch out for bleeding and signs of infection. Learn more about taking care of your skin after treatment of skin cancer​ here.  

A previous history of skin cancer puts you at higher risk of developing more skin cancers. It’s important to regularly check your skin to spot any changes early. Your doctor will advise how often a professional skin check is needed (i.e. every 3, 6 or 12 months).

It’s also important to check your own skin with regular (at least every 3 months) DIY skin checks. The best time to per­form your skin self-examination is before or after a shower. Make sure you’re in a well-lit room and have a hand-held mirror (for the tricky to see spots).

Start at the parts of the body that are easy to see. Check your arms and tor­so (both sides) and go all the way down to your feet. Don’t forget to check the soles of your feet and your toes. Exam­ine the area under your armpits, the pubic area, and the genitals for strange growths. Look at your palms, backs of hands and between your fin­gers (not forgetting the fingernails). Using your mirror, check for signs of skin can­cer on the neck, back and but­tocks. Ask your partner, a family member or friend to exam­ine your head.

For more advice on what *exactly* you’re looking for, including the ABCDEFG rule, check out this post.