Frequently asked questions
Where are your clinics located?
We have clinics in Grovedale, Geelong and Colac, providing expert skin care services to the local community. We were formerly Western Skin Institute in Waurn Ponds and have since moved to 117 Pioneer Road in Grovedale.
Do I need a referral to attend Pioneer Skin Doctors?
A referral is not needed for most of our services. However, if you require specific treatments, our team can advise you on whether a referral is necessary.
Do you offer Medicare rebates?
Some of our services, such as skin cancer checks and treatments, may be eligible for Medicare rebates. Our team can provide more information based on your specific treatment.
Can I discuss multiple medical issues in one consultation?
While we understand that you may have multiple concerns, a standard consultation may not allow enough time to address all issues thoroughly. If you have more than two concerns, we recommend booking a follow-up appointment or requesting a long consultation when scheduling your visit.
How often should I have a skin check?
We recommend an annual skin check to monitor any changes. If you have a history of skin cancer or high sun exposure, more frequent checks may be advised.
How can I check my own skin?
Performing regular self-checks is essential for early skin cancer detection.
What to look for:
- Any crusty sores that won’t heal
- Small red, pale, or pearly lumps
- New spots, freckles, or moles that change in colour, size, shape, or thickness over weeks to months
- Dark brown to black, red, or blue-black spots
How often to check
Self-examinations should be done every three months. Additionally, an annual professional skin check is recommended, either with your GP or at a Pioneer Skin Doctors clinic.
How to check
Use a mirror or ask a family member to help examine areas such as your back, scalp, and behind your ears. Be sure to check your entire body, including your face, neck, arms, hands, legs, feet, and between fingers and toes.
Who is at risk?
You may have a higher risk of developing skin cancer if you:
- Spent your childhood in Australia
- Have a large number of moles
- Have suffered from sunburn
- Have fair skin that burns easily and does not tan
- Have blue or green eyes
- Have fair or red hair
- Have been diagnosed with melanoma in the past
- Have a family history of melanoma
What is dermatoscopy?
Dermatoscopy (or dermoscopy) is a technique used to examine skin spots with a dermatoscope, which provides magnification and a light source. This tool allows trained practitioners to identify melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers with greater accuracy, sometimes detecting them before they are visible to the naked eye. It also helps rule out harmless spots, reducing unnecessary excisions.
What are cosmetic injectables?
Cosmetic injectables, such as anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, help reduce the appearance of fine lines, restore volume, and enhance facial features. They can also be used to treat medical conditions like jaw clenching and bruxism.
Are injectables painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during injectable treatments. Our practitioners use fine needles and may apply a numbing agent to ensure a comfortable experience.
How long do injectables last?
- Anti-wrinkle injections: 3 to 4 months
- Dermal fillers: 6 to 18 months, depending on the treatment area and product used
Do you offer treatment for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)?
Yes, we provide hyperhidrosis treatments to help reduce excessive sweating in areas such as the underarms, hands, and face.
If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Pioneer Skin Doctors. Our friendly team is here to assist you with all your skin care needs.
