Services > Skin Cancer Care
Dr Neil Hearnden is an accredited skin cancer doctor by the Skin Cancer College of Australasia
Dr Hearnden has completed the Master of Medicine degree from the University of Queensland, in the field of Skin Cancer
Difficult areas such as the head and neck as well as lower legs may require special plastic surgery techniques. Dr Hearnden has trained in the skills required for correct skin cancer removal. Many of these lesions using local skin flaps.
The most difficult lesions requiring full-thickness grafting are mostly referred to trusted Plastic Surgeons.
Dr Hearnden is an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor with the Skin Cancer College Australasia. This means that he has successfully completed a high level of training with the College and has proven skills in the diagnosis, treatment and management of skin cancer.
Australia continues to experience the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with an urgent warning to Queenslanders to stay vigilant with the sun protection.
Medical staff at Arana Hills Medical are experienced in skin cancer detection, however Dr Hearnden has additional skills accredited by the Skin College of Australasia.
Detection is enhanced by the use of Dermoscopy equipment and magnifying loupes. There is also photographic equipment to store images quickly as well as quality dermatoscopes. Dr Hearnden has experience in using these diagnostic aids. Any suspicious lesions are examined by biopsy which may be by:
- Shave
- Punch biopsy
- Total excisional removal
- Flap repair in difficult areas
If the lesions are considered of low-risk such as Actinic Keratoses or Seborrhoeic Keratoses, removal may be undertaken by:
- Cryotherapy
- Hyfrecation under local anaesthesia
- Phenol application
- Topical cream therapy using Efudix, or Aldara
High-risk lesions and cancers are recommended for removal by full excision and suture.