A skin check can save your life. At TMMP we have 2 accredited skin cancer doctors, Dr Jan Zomerdijk and Dr Henri Coombs.  Checkout the video below for more information on skin cancer doctors 

https://youtu.be/-d6ocutQBF4 

Skin Clinic

At TMMP clinics, our doctors see and treat many patients every year with skin cancer and sun related skin disorders. Skin cancers can occur anywhere on the body. Our accredited doctors, who have a diploma in Skin Cancer Medicine, offer all patients a full head - toe skin check. They are registered with the Skin Cancer College Australasia, the peak body representing and supporting primary skin care practitioners in Australasia (http://www.skincancercollege.org). 

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and is associated with a history of multiple sunburns.  Each year in Australia, nearly 10,000 new cases are diagnosed, with 1,200 people dying from this disease every year.  Melanoma develops over weeks to months.  If untreated, cancer cells may spread to other parts of the body.  If treated early, 95% are cured.  It may appear as a new spot, or an existing spot, freckle or mole that changes in colour, size or shape.  It usually has an irregular or smudgy outline and is more than one colour. A melanoma can be black, pink, purple, red, multi-coloured and even pale.  Melanoma may grow over weeks to months, anywhere on the body.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Is not as dangerous as melanoma but may spread to other parts of the body if not treated.  A thickened red, scaly spot.  Later it may bleed easily or ulcerate.  Usually appears on sites most often exposed to the sun.  Usually grows over some months.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

It the most common and least dangerous skin cancer.  May appear as a lump or scaling area Is red, pale or pearly in colour.  As it grows it may become ulcerated like an unhealing sore or one that heals then breaks down again.  Grows slowly, usually on the head, neck and upper chest.

Dysplastic Naevi

Is not skin cancer, but a warning that you may be more prone to melanoma.  Often flat, fairly large moles which share  some of the features of early melanoma.  Characterised by irregular boarders and uneven colour with multiple shades of brown and sometimes pink.

Solar Keratoses

Is not a skin cancer but a warning that you may be more prone to developing skin cancer.  Characterised by red, flattish, scaling  areas which may sting if scratched.  Sunspots appear on sun exposed skin in people over 40 years of age.

Freckles and Moles

Freckles are harmless coloured spots that range in size from 1 to 10mm.  Moles are evenly coloured and may be raised although they do not have to be.  Moles have clear, even edges and are usually circular or oval in shape.

Seborrhoeic Keratoses

By the age of 60, most people have at least one or two of these.  They have a very discrete edge and  frequently sit up on top of the skin. Colour varies from pale skin through orange to black.  Size varies from few millimetres to 2cm.

Prevention

SunSmart recommends five steps to protect against sun damage when the UV index is 3 or above:

• Slip on some sun-protective clothing – that covers as much skin as possible.
• Slop on SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30+ sunscreen – make sure it is broad spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays) and water resistant.  Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and reapply every two hours.  Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
• Slap on a hat – that protects your face, head, neck and ears.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standard AS1067.

Extra care should be taken between 10am and 3pm when UV levels reach their peak.

Check your skin regularly, at least every three months.
If you find a spot and notice any of the following, please see your doctor:
A: Asymmetry (unevenness) – one half of the spot doesn’t match the other.
B: Border – the edges of the spot are irregular, ragged, notched or blurred.
C: Colour – the colour of the spot is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, red, white or blue.
D: Diameter – the spot is larger than 6mm across (about 1/4 inch) or is growing larger.
E: Evolution and/or elevation – the spot may change in shape or size (enlarge) and a flat spot may become raised in a matter of a
    few weeks.

Also be aware of any mole or freckle that:

• Changes over a period of months

• Grows in size

• Changes shape

• Becomes mottled in colour

• Has a persistent itch.

If you notice anything new or unusual on your skin, see your doctor.

Acne clinic

Tamborine Mountain Medical Practice have accredited doctors with a Diploma in Dermatology, who offer an acne diagnosis and treatment service. Acne is a complex common skin condition that will affect almost all Australians at some stage of their lives. Although acne can be nothing more than a couple of embarrassing blemishes on the face, it can also become very severe with disfiguring scarring on all parts of the body. It is estimated 70% of moderate to severe acne sufferers never see a doctor for treatment. Unfortunately they rely on treatments and ‘Over-the-counter’ products, which often do not work, leading to long term severe facial scarring and impact on self-esteem.