What Happens After Your Skin Check? Your Next Steps, Clearly Explained.

One of the most common concerns patients have before a skin check isn't the appointment itself, it's not knowing what happens next. What if something is found? What does a follow-up actually involve? How long before you hear back about a biopsy?

At SkinGP, every patient leaves with a clear understanding of their results and their next steps. Here's what to expect across each possible outcome.

All clear

If no concerning lesions are identified, your doctor will advise when to return for your next skin check based on your individual risk profile. For most patients with no significant history or risk factors, an annual check is recommended. Your imaging records are retained at the clinic, giving future appointments a precise baseline to compare against.

Monitoring recommended

Some lesions don't clearly require immediate biopsy but warrant closer observation over time. If your doctor recommends photographic monitoring, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled - typically around three months later - to compare images and assess for any change. This is a structured, proactive process, not a reason for alarm.

Treatment required

If a biopsy or procedure is recommended, your doctor will explain exactly what was found, why treatment is necessary, and what the procedure involves before anything proceeds. In most cases, biopsies and surgical excisions are performed in-clinic at SkinGP under local anaesthetic, without the need for a referral or a separate appointment elsewhere.

If a biopsy sample is taken, pathology results are typically available within a few days. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the findings and, if required, outline a treatment plan.

Referral to a specialist

In some cases, where a lesion is in a complex location or requires specialist reconstructive expertise, a referral is the most appropriate next step. When this happens, SkinGP provides the receiving specialist with comprehensive documentation including biopsy results and high-quality photographic records, ensuring continuity of care and no unnecessary delays.

You will never leave uncertain

Whatever the outcome, our team will ensure you understand your results, your options, and what happens next before you leave the clinic. If questions arise after your appointment, our reception team is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm, on (03) 9969 5000.

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