Plastic Surgery Queensland logo on a transparent background
Plastic Surgery Queensland logo on a transparent background
PSQ logo

FOUR LOCATIONS ONE EXPERIENCED TEAM

BRISBANE
SUNSHINE COAST
NOOSA
GOLD COAST

Skin Cancer Checks

Skin cancer checks are a vital preventative health measure, particularly for those living in the high-UV environment of the Gold Coast. At Plastic Surgery Queensland, Dr Michael Stapelberg provides comprehensive skin assessments to detect suspicious lesions, melanomas, and non-melanoma skin cancers at their earliest, most treatable stages.

As a specialist with extensive experience in both diagnosis and surgical intervention, Dr Stapelberg offers a seamless pathway from initial detection to expert excision. This integrated approach ensures that if a concerning spot is identified, it can be managed with the precision and aesthetic consideration of a plastic surgeon, minimising scarring while prioritising your health.

What Is A Skin Cancer Check?

A skin cancer check is a thorough physical examination of the skin, from head to toe, performed to identify any abnormal spots, moles, or lesions. During the consultation, Dr Stapelberg uses dermoscopy, a specialised handheld magnification tool, to look deep into the structure of the skin. This allows for the identification of subtle features of skin cancer that are often invisible to the naked eye.

Dr Stapelberg also utilises FotoFinder, an advanced digital dermoscopy system specialising in the mapping and monitoring of individual moles through sequential digital dermoscopy. FotoFinder captures high‑resolution, standardised images of individual lesions and moles, allowing:

  • Detailed baseline documentation of individual moles and lesions.
  • Precise side‑by‑side comparison over time to detect even subtle changes.
  • Earlier identification of new or evolving lesions that may warrant closer monitoring or biopsy.

This combination of clinical assessment, dermoscopy and state‑of‑the‑art imaging supports more accurate diagnosis, earlier detection and, ultimately, more effective treatment.

The process is non-invasive and focuses on identifying the three main types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. If a suspicious lesion is found, Dr Stapelberg can discuss the necessary next steps, which may include a biopsy or a formal surgical excision. By combining diagnostic expertise with surgical skill, he ensures that any necessary removals are performed with meticulous technique to achieve the best possible functional and cosmetic outcome.

Consultations - Length + Pricing

  • Spot Check (10min): $100 (Medicare rebate approximately $50)

  • Short Consultation (15 min): $175 (Medicare rebate approximately $50)

  • Full Body Skin Check (20 min): $200 (Medicare rebate approximately $90)

  • Aesthetic Consultation (20 min): $200 (no Medicare rebate)

  • Biopsies during skin check $75 rebate ~50

  • Cryotherapy during skin check $50 rebate ~40

Your Guide To Skin Cancer Checks

Your skin cancer check journey at Plastic Surgery Queensland with Dr Michael Stapelberg begins with a detailed discussion of your medical history, sun exposure habits, and any specific spots you may have noticed. We perform a systematic examination of your entire body in a professional and comfortable environment, ensuring no area is overlooked.

Where appropriate, FotoFinder digital dermoscopy and mole mapping is used to create a detailed record of individual moles and lesions. This is particularly useful if you have many moles, a history of melanoma, or if ongoing surveillance has been recommended. These images are securely stored and used at future visits to monitor for changes in specific moles with a high degree of accuracy.
Plastic Surgery Brisbane Queensland
Skin Cancer:

Are You At Risk?

Living in Queensland means almost everyone is at some degree of risk due to high lifetime UV exposure. However, you may be at a higher risk if you:

  • Have a fair complexion, light-coloured eyes, or hair that freckles or burns easily.
  • Have a personal or family history of melanoma or other skin cancers.
  • Have a large number of moles or "atypical" (unusual-looking) moles.
  • Have a history of severe, blistering sunburns or frequent sun exposure without protection.
  • Work outdoors or spend significant time in recreational outdoor activities on the Gold Coast.

If any of these apply to you, regular skin cancer checks with a specialist such as Dr Stapelberg are strongly recommended.

Book Your Skin Check Now!

Online Bookings Available

Before and after

Excision Surgery
Dr Michael Stapelberg
Excision Surgery
Dr Michael Stapelberg
Excision Surgery
Dr Michael Stapelberg
All patients have consented to their images being published. These images are no guarantee of any individual surgical outcome, Individual results may vary. Any surgery or invasive procedure carries risks.

Plastic Surgery Queensland advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
(AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

What You Need to know

1. EXPECTATIONS

A referral is not required for consultation with Dr Stapelberg. You can book directly for a skin cancer check.

At your initial assessment, he will:

  • Take a history of your sun exposure and any previous skin cancers or treatments.
  • Perform a full‑body skin examination using dermoscopy.
  • Utilise FotoFinder imaging where clinically appropriate to document and monitor your moles.

If a lesion requires treatment, he will explain the options available, ranging from short‑interval monitoring with FotoFinder to biopsy or surgical excision. It is important to be open about your history of sun damage, medications, and any previous skin cancer treatments.

2. SURGERY & EXCISIONS

If a skin cancer or suspicious lesion is identified, Dr Stapelberg specialises in surgical excisions.

This is particularly important for lesions on the face, nose, ears, scalp, hands or décolletage, where preserving appearance and function is paramount. Depending on the size and location of the lesion, Dr Stapelberg may use advanced reconstructive techniques such as local flaps or skin grafts to achieve the best possible outcome.

Excisions are typically performed under local anaesthetic as a day procedure. You will be given clear instructions on how to care for the wound post‑operatively.

3. RISKS

While skin checks themselves are non‑invasive, surgical excisions carry standard risks such as:

  • Infection, bleeding or bruising.
  • Wound breakdown or delayed healing.
  • Scarring, which may be more visible in some skin types or locations.
  • The potential need for further treatment if pathology results indicate that the margins are not clear or if a more aggressive cancer is identified.

Your specific risks will depend on the size, type and location of the lesion and your overall health. Dr Stapelberg will discuss all relevant risks and benefits with you before proceeding with any treatment.

4. POST
PROCEDURE

If no suspicious lesions are found, you will be advised on:

  • An appropriate interval for your next skin check (often annually, or more frequently if you are high‑risk).
  • Self‑examination techniques and sun‑protective measures tailored to Queensland conditions.

If you undergo an excision, you will receive:

  • Detailed wound care instructions, including how to keep the area clean and dry.
  • Guidance on activity restrictions while sutures are in place and during early healing.
  • A follow‑up appointment to remove sutures if required and to discuss pathology results.

Our clinical team is available if you have concerns during your recovery. Most patients return to normal daily activities quickly, with more strenuous exercise delayed until healing is established.

FAQs

No. You do not need a referral to book a skin cancer check with Dr Stapelberg. Many patients are referred by their GP or dermatologist, but you are also welcome to make an appointment directly.

For most Queenslanders, an annual professional skin check is recommended. If you are at higher risk or have a history of melanoma or multiple skin cancers, Dr Stapelberg may recommend more frequent checks, such as every 3 to 6 months.

 

FotoFinder is an advanced digital dermoscopy and mole mapping system. It:

  • Creates a detailed, high‑resolution record of individual moles and lesions.
  • Allows precise comparison between visits to detect very small changes over time in specific moles (sequential digital dermoscopy).
  • Supports earlier identification of evolving lesions that may need biopsy or excision.

Between visits, you should check your own skin regularly, looking for:

  • New spots or moles.
  • Existing moles that are changing in size, shape or colour.
  • The “ABCDE” warning signs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving.

Any spot that crusts, bleeds, becomes tender or doesn’t heal within a few weeks should be assessed promptly.

Yes. Dr Stapelberg performs the surgical excisions and any necessary reconstruction (such as local flaps or skin grafts) himself. This ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through to treatment and follow‑up. Additionally, the clinic has board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeons available to perform skin cancer surgery if required or specifically requested by you as the patient.

 

Any surgical incision will result in a scar. However, Dr Stapelberg uses plastic surgery principles to carefully place and close incisions, often along natural skin lines, to make scars as fine and discreet as possible. Over time, most scars fade significantly, and you will be given guidance on scar care to support optimal healing.

A comprehensive full‑body skin check typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of moles and the complexity of your skin history. If FotoFinder imaging or multiple biopsies are required, your appointment may take a little longer.

Subscribe

Subscribe to emails to hear more about our procedures, surgeons, after care and more.
Plastic Surgery Queensland logo on a transparent background
contact us
Privacy Policy
Referral forms
Plastic Surgery Blog
BRISBANE
Suite 2.02
550 Stanley St
Mater Private Clinic
South Brisbane
QLD 4101
(07) 3844 6069
reception@psqld.com
SUNSHINE COAST
19/5 Innovation Parkway,
Birtinya
QLD 4575
(07) 5437 9333
info@psqsc.com.au
NOOSA
197 Weyba Road,
Noosaville
QLD 4566
(07) 5437 9333
info@psqsc.com.au
GOLD COAST
Shop 9/109 West Burleigh Rd
Burleigh Waters,
QLD 4220
(07) 3844 6069
reception@psqld.com
Plastic Surgery Queensland advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
© Copyright 14/03/2026 | All Rights Reserved | Plastic Surgery Queensland | Sitemap | SEO by DMB Digital