When it comes to skin cancer, early detection saves lives. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world — and Queensland sits right at the top. With over 250 sunny days a year on the Gold Coast, regular skin checks aren’t optional, they’re essential. Our skin cancer team at Southport Metro combines specialist dermasurgery expertise with accredited GP skin cancer care.
See a doctor promptly if you notice: a new spot, a mole that has changed in size, shape or colour, a sore that won’t heal, a spot that bleeds, itches or is painful, or any skin change that concerns you. Don’t wait for your next routine check.
Our Skin Cancer Doctors
Southport Metro has two dedicated skin cancer doctors — a specialist Dermasurgeon and an accredited skin cancer GP. Between them they offer everything from routine annual checks through to complex surgical procedures.
Dr Nelson Sucgang
MD, BSc | Dip. SCCA | Dip. AAAM | Dip. General Dermatology
Dermasurgeon & Cosmetic Physician
Dr Sucgang is a Diplomate of the Skin Cancer College of Australasia and a Diplomate of the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. He brings specialist-level expertise in skin cancer diagnosis, dermasurgery, and cosmetic skin procedures — offering a level of advanced skin cancer care rarely available outside a specialist clinic.
Book with Dr Sucgang
Dr Sergey Bromberg
MBBS (VIC), FRACGP
General Practitioner | Skin Cancer Accredited
Dr Bromberg is an accredited skin cancer GP with extensive experience in thorough skin checks, dermoscopy, biopsies, and minor surgical excisions. He is accredited by the Skin Cancer College of Australasia and sees patients for routine annual skin checks and more complex lesion assessment and removal.
Book with Dr BrombergWhat Our Skin Cancer Clinic Offers
- Full body skin checks
- Dermoscopy
- Mole and lesion assessment
- Skin cancer diagnosis
- Biopsies
- Minor surgical excisions
- Flaps and grafts
- Cryotherapy
- Actinic keratosis treatment
- Sun damage assessment
- Cosmetic skin procedures
- Referrals to dermatology
Types of Skin Cancer We Check For
- Melanoma The most dangerous form of skin cancer and one of the most common cancers in young Australians. Melanoma can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new spot. When caught early the survival rate is above 95%. Our doctors use dermoscopy — a magnified examination tool — to assess moles and pigmented lesions systematically.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) The most common type of skin cancer in Australia. BCCs rarely spread but can cause significant local tissue damage if left untreated. They often appear as a pearly or shiny bump, a flat scar-like lesion, or a pink growth. Easily treated when caught early.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) The second most common skin cancer. SCCs can grow quickly and occasionally spread. They often appear as a firm red nodule, a scaly flat lesion, or a new sore that doesn’t heal. People with significant sun damage or a history of skin cancer are at higher risk.
- Actinic Keratosis (Sun Spots) These rough, scaly patches are pre-cancerous. Left untreated, a small percentage can develop into squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment is straightforward and prevents progression. Very common on the Gold Coast given the climate.
The ABCDE rule for moles: Asymmetry, irregular Border, multiple Colours, Diameter larger than 6mm, Evolving (changing in shape, size or colour). If any of these apply to a spot on your skin, see a doctor promptly.
Who Should Get a Skin Check?
Everyone living in Queensland should have regular skin checks — ideally every 12 months. Annual checks are particularly important if you:
- Have fair skin, freckles or light hair
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Work outdoors or spend significant time in the sun
- Have had significant sunburn in the past
- Have many moles (more than 50)
- Are over 40
- Have a weakened immune system
- Have noticed a new or changing spot
Skin Check Fees
Dr Nelson Sucgang — Dermasurgeon
| Service | Fee | Medicare Rebate | Out of Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Check | $135 | $84.90 | $50.10 |
| Biopsy | Bulk billed | ||
| Excisions & Surgical Procedures | Bulk billed — pricing discussed prior to procedure | ||
Dr Sergey Bromberg — Accredited Skin Cancer GP
| Service | Fee | Medicare Rebate | Out of Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Check | $90 | $43.90Bulk billed for concession card holders | $46.10$0 for concession card holders |
| Biopsy — 1st | $100 | $48.90 | $51.10 |
| Biopsy — 2nd | $45 | $24.45 | $20.55 |
| Biopsy — 3rd or more | $22.50 | $12.25 | $10.25 |
| Excisions, Flaps & Grafts | Pricing discussed by your doctor prior to procedure | ||
When booking, please select Skin Check as the appointment type so the right time slot is allocated. For lesion removal or surgical procedures, your doctor will discuss fees with you prior to any procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full body skin check take?
A full body skin check takes around 15 minutes. If your doctor identifies anything needing closer examination or a biopsy, allow a little extra time. Book specifically as a skin check appointment so the right slot is allocated.
What’s the difference between a GP skin check and seeing a Dermasurgeon?
Dr Bromberg performs thorough GP skin checks accredited by the Skin Cancer College of Australasia — suitable for routine annual checks, mole monitoring, and standard biopsies and excisions. Dr Sucgang is a Diplomate Dermasurgeon with specialist-level expertise for complex lesions, advanced surgical procedures, and cosmetic skin concerns. Your GP can refer you to Dr Sucgang if your situation requires that level of care.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a skin check?
Remove nail polish from fingers and toes before your appointment — the skin under nails is also checked. Wear or bring easy-to-remove clothing. No other preparation is needed.
What happens if my doctor finds something suspicious?
Your doctor will discuss their findings and recommend next steps — this might be monitoring at your next check, a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis, or a minor surgical removal. Nothing will be done without a clear explanation first.
How often should I have a skin check?
Annually for most people in Queensland. If you have a personal history of skin cancer or are considered high risk, your doctor may recommend every 6 months.
I’ve noticed a spot that concerns me. Should I wait for my annual check?
No — book a specific appointment to have it looked at now. Don’t wait for a routine check if something has changed or is worrying you. Call us on (07) 5612 7830 or book online.
Can I book a skin check for my partner or children at the same time?
Yes, but each person needs their own appointment. Call reception on (07) 5612 7830 and we can book back-to-back appointments on the same day.
Related Services
- → Southport Skin Doctors — full service information
- → Men’s Health
- → Women’s Health
- → Fees and billing
Book a skin check today
Open 7 days at Australia Fair Metro, ground floor, 58 Scarborough St, Southport. Select “Skin Check” when booking online.
Book Online Or call (07) 5612 7830