Finding out that your skin cancer screening has flagged a suspicious lesion can feel unsettling, but it’s an important step toward protecting your health. At Station Road Medical Centre, a trusted medical center Ipswich residents rely on, our team walks every patient through the process calmly and clearly, so you always know what comes next and why each step matters.
Understanding a Suspicious Lesion Finding
A “suspicious” result doesn’t automatically mean cancer — it simply means a spot needs closer attention. Common reasons a lesion is flagged include:
- Irregular borders, colour, or shape compared to surrounding skin
- Recent changes in size, texture, or bleeding
- A new growth that wasn’t present at your last check
- A spot that matches ABCDE warning signs
Step 1: A Closer Look with Dermoscopy
Once a lesion catches the doctor’s eye, they’ll usually examine it more closely using a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifying tool that reveals structures invisible to the naked eye.
- Non-invasive and painless
- Helps doctors decide whether a biopsy is truly needed
- Reduces the chance a concerning lesion is missed without proper dermoscopy
Step 2: Biopsy for Confirmation
If the lesion still looks concerning, your doctor will recommend a biopsy — removing a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis. This is the only way to confirm whether cancer cells are present.
| Biopsy Type | What It Involves | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Shave biopsy | Top layers of skin shaved off | Surface-level lesions |
| Punch biopsy | Small circular tool removes a deeper sample | Lesions needing full-thickness assessment |
| Excisional biopsy | Entire lesion removed with a margin | Suspected melanoma |
You can read more about how a skin biopsy helps diagnose skin cancer early or what a punch biopsy involves.
Step 3: Waiting for Results
Biopsy results typically take one to two weeks. During this time:
- Keep the biopsy site clean and dry as instructed
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure to the area
- Contact the clinic if you notice unusual swelling, pain, or discharge
- Book a follow-up appointment in advance so results are discussed promptly
Step 4: Understanding Your Results
Once results are ready, one of our doctors will explain them in plain language.
- Benign — no cancer cells found; routine monitoring continues
- Precancerous — early changes present, treatable before progressing
- Malignant — cancer confirmed, requiring a treatment plan
Step 5: Treatment Options If Cancer Is Confirmed
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Options offered by doctors in Ipswich at our clinic may include:
- Surgical excision to remove the tumour with clear margins
- Cryotherapy for freezing early, superficial lesions
- Photodynamic therapy as a non-invasive alternative
- Mohs surgery for precise removal in cosmetically sensitive areas
- Referral for sentinel lymph node biopsy if spread is suspected
- Skin grafts or flaps for larger surgical sites
| Treatment | Recovery Time | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cryotherapy | Days | Superficial, early lesions |
| Surgical excision | 1–2 weeks | Confirmed BCC/SCC/melanoma |
| Mohs surgery | 1–2 weeks | Face, ears, sensitive areas |
| Photodynamic therapy | Several days | Actinic keratosis, superficial BCC |
Ongoing Monitoring After Treatment
Even after successful treatment, regular monitoring is essential.
- Schedule follow-up skin checks every 6–12 months
- Consider mole mapping to track changes over time
- Report any new or changing spots immediately
- Practise daily sun protection to reduce recurrence risk
Learn more about mole mapping and early detection or what to expect at your first skin cancer check appointment.
Why Choose Station Road Medical Centre?
As a trusted skin cancer clinic Ipswich families turn to, our experienced doctors combine advanced diagnostic tools with compassionate, patient-first care.
- Experienced GPs and skin cancer specialists on-site
- Modern dermoscopy and same-day biopsy capability
- Clear communication at every stage of diagnosis and treatment
- Convenient location for patients across Ipswich and surrounding suburbs
Meet our team on the our doctors page, or explore our skin cancer information hub for further reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does a suspicious lesion always mean skin cancer?
No. Many suspicious lesions turn out to be benign after biopsy, but testing is the only way to know for certain.
2. How long does it take to get biopsy results?
Most results are available within one to two weeks, depending on the laboratory.
3. Is a biopsy painful?
A local anaesthetic is used, so most patients feel only mild pressure during the procedure.
4. What happens if the biopsy confirms cancer?
Your doctor will discuss suitable treatment options based on the cancer type, size, and location.
5. How often should I get a skin check after treatment?
Most patients are advised to have a follow-up check every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if new changes appear.
6. Can I book a skin cancer screening at Station Road Medical Centre?
Yes, appointments can be made directly through our online booking page.
Contact Us
If you’ve noticed a suspicious spot or are due for a skin cancer screening, don’t wait to get it checked. Reach out to our friendly team at Station Road Medical Centre today.
Call us: (07) 3816 1155
Email: admin@srmcbooval.com.au
You can also visit our contact page for directions and opening hours, or explore our day procedure skin cancer clinic services for more information.
