Frequently asked questions

Our skin checks are a hassle free 15-30 minute appointment where a dermatoscope is used to inspect any spots on your body. If any spot is considered suspicious, a biopsy and/or a photo will be taken. The biopsy is then sent to an accredited pathology lab to determine the exact nature of the spot.

Cosmetic Medicine Consultation FAQ 1) What happens in a cosmetic consultation? We start with a medical assessment (health history, medications, skin/anatomy, goals). We then discuss suitable options, expected variability in results, risks, downtime, and aftercare. You’ll receive a clear plan and you’ll have time to consider your decision. 2) Do you offer cosmetic injectables? Some cosmetic treatments involve prescription only medicines and can only be discussed properly after a private medical consultation to confirm suitability and safety. Australian rules don’t allow public advertising of the brand/substance of cosmetic injectables. 3) Why don’t you list prices on your website? Because public advertising of prescription only cosmetic injectables (including indirect references) is restricted, and pricing in reference to these injectables is generally considered advertising. We provide individualised quotes after medical assessment. 4) Can you give a price range before I book? We can usually provide: • The consultation fee $50 OOP • Pricing for device based treatments (laser) is available at booking • For prescription only cosmetic injectables, we provide a quote after consultation, because pricing depends on your anatomy, goals, product choice, and the safest plan. 5) Who will I see? Northern Skin Doctors is a physician and expert nurse led clinic. Your consultation is clinically guided, and any treatment recommendations are made with a medical safety first approach. 6) Do you do laser treatments for rejuvenation? Yes we offer laser consultations and can discuss whether laser is suitable for your concerns (texture, sun damage, redness, pores, fine lines) and your skin type. We’ll explain expected downtime, risks, and alternatives. 7) How many sessions will I need? It depends on your concern and the treatment approach. Many skin-quality treatments are done as a course, while other treatments may be occasional maintenance. We’ll outline a realistic timeline in your consult. 8) Is there downtime? Downtime varies by treatment and intensity. Some options have minimal downtime; others involve temporary redness, swelling, dryness, or flaking. We’ll explain what’s typical and what’s not, plus aftercare. 9) Are results guaranteed? No. In cosmetic medicine, results vary between individuals. We aim for natural, appropriate outcomes and will be honest if your goal isn’t achievable or a treatment is unlikely to help. 10) What are the risks? All procedures carry risk. Risks depend on the treatment and can include irritation, swelling, bruising, infection, pigment change, scarring, or unsatisfactory cosmetic result. Your clinician will explain the relevant risks and how we reduce them. 11) I’m pregnant or breastfeeding — can I have cosmetic treatments? Some treatments are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please tell us when booking and at your consultation so we can guide you safely. 12) I’m on blood thinners or I bruise easily — should I mention this? Yes. Please tell us about blood thinners, bleeding disorders, supplements, and any history of significant bruising or poor wound healing. This helps us plan safely. 13) Can I bring photos of what I’m aiming for? Yes, reference photos can help clarify style and goals. We’ll still focus on what is realistic and appropriate for your anatomy and skin. 14) Do you use before and after photos? We prioritise medical accuracy and patient dignity. We don’t rely on “transformation marketing.” If clinical images are used for education, they must be genuine and not misleading, and outcomes can vary. 15) Do you use patient reviews/testimonials in cosmetic advertising? Australian rules prohibit using testimonials to advertise regulated health services. We focus instead on providing clear information and informed consent. 16) Do you treat under 18s? Our cosmetic medicine services are for adults (18+). Cosmetic procedure advertising rules are especially strict around young people. 17) How do I book? Book a Cosmetic Medicine Consultation online, or contact our team. If you’re unsure which appointment type to choose, select a cosmetic consult and we’ll guide you from there.

A full skin check will involve the skin cancer doctor examining your entire body, including your palms, soles, and under your nails. Undergarments will be worn at all times. Please inform your doctor if you have any concerns under your clothes. We advise all our patients to remove all makeup and nail polish before appointments if possible. Mirrors are available in our bathroom for reapplication after the check. Unfortunately, melanoma can occur anywhere on your body, even in areas not exposed to the sun. Please arrive 10 minutes early if it is your first appointment with us to fill out the registration form.

We BULK BILL (no out-of-pocket costs) all patients with a health care concession card for their skin check during the week days. Out-of-pocket fees for non-HCC holders are $51.10. The overall cost as of November 2025 is $95 with a $43.90 rebate. Fees are reviewed periodically. Procedure costs will depend on the cancer diagnosis and the recommended operation. We do not compromise on our equipment and always allocate appropriate time for our potentially life-saving procedures. Weekend consults - All weekend consults have a private fee regardless of HCC status. The out-of-pocket fees on the weekend is $120 OOP (for standard 15min consult) with a $43.90 rebate.

Our doctors are highly qualified in diagnosing, treating, and preventing skin cancers, having completed extensive extra training. Our passionate skin cancer clinicians continue to further their education by regularly attending the newest courses and using advanced technologies and up-to-date treatments. We have the latest equipment and have designed the clinic with two fully established surgical theatres. Additionally, we use Dermengine, the most advanced technology for skin cancer detection and photography. We are uncompromising in the care for our patients and aim to be seen as a compassionate community clinic, providing care without the costs of a plastic surgeon.

Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world, including our region in Cairns. Recent statistics show that Smithfield and the Northern Beaches of Cairns have an 86% higher risk than the Australian average. *Evidence - Australian Cancer Atlas (https://atlas.cancer.org.au). Cancer Council Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information. Version 09-2018. Accessed [give date]. If you are over 25 years old and have never had a skin check, please book in today. Your doctor will create a personalized risk assessment at your appointment and let you know how often to book in the future.

All our doctors are passionate about skin cancer prevention. We recommend that our patients wear at a minimum 50+ SPF which is reapplied every 2-3 hours and ensure that they wear a hat, cover up as much as possible and use polarised sunglasses.

Disclaimer: All tenant doctors and other practitioners operating at Northern Skin Doctors are independent contractors. Each practitioner is solely responsible for their own fees, policies, conduct, professional services and each operate under their own ABN. Northern Skin Doctors provides support and administrative services to its tenants but does not oversee or assume responsibility for their professional activities.