Some medical practitioners have expressed concern regarding the quality of care provided by some skin cancer clinics. The majority of doctors working in skin cancer clinics are general practitioners with no recognised post graduate qualifications. Recently the Cancer Council of New South Wales published the following information regarding skin cancer clinics:  

Many skin clinics operate in NSW and offer a variety of services and fee arrangements. Skin clinics are usually operated by GPs and some bulk-bill. If you decide to make an appointment with a skin clinic, it is important to ask:

• about the qualifications, skills and experience of the person who will examine you
• whether that person is a member or fellow of any professional association relevant to skin cancer (such as the Australasian College of Dermatologists)
• what costs may be involved, not just for the initial consultation, but for any follow-up treatment you may require.

Many clinics offer the latest digital technology to assist in examining skin spots. It is important to remember that these are just tools that help the person examining your skin to make a diagnosis. The quality of that diagnosis still depends on the experience and skills of that person.

Anti-wrinkle injections refer to a very commonly performed cosmetic procedure.  Infact, it is the most commonly performed medical cosmetic procedure performed world wide.  It involves the use of a very well known product.  However, TGA restrictions prohibit the advertising of prescription medications and it cannot be named on the public area of the website.

Anti-wrinkle injections  are derived from a natural, purified protein that relaxes wrinkle-causing muscles creating a smoother, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance. It is a simple and quick, minimally invasive non-surgical procedure that delivers dramatic results. The treatment is administered in a few tiny injections that relax the muscle by blocking nerve impulses that trigger wrinkle-causing muscle contractions. It can also be used to partially reshape or elevate the eyebrows. Discomfort is minimal and normal activities can be resumed immediately.

It takes effect within 2-5 days with maximal effect after 7-14 days. The results generally last between 3 and 4 months at which time the treatment can be repeated if desired. The results gradually wear off and eventually the wrinkles will return as before treatment.

These injections can also be used to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of armpits and hands. Its use in treating migraines is also under investigation but has been very promising.

As we age the face loses volume and changes shape. Typically a child or young adult will have full face with the cheek area or mid face being broader than the lower face. As we age, usually beginning in the thirties, we begin to lose volume in the cheek area. This causes flatness and a tired look. As this volume loss progresses there is loss of support for the lower face which exacerbates nasolabial lines (folds between the outer lower nose and the outer lip).  In addition, volume loss between the corners of the mouth and jaw leads to marionette lines and jowls. Volume loss also occurs in the temples, around the eyes and lips. All of these factors contribute to increased heaviness in the lower face and a more square shape as we age. In addition, loss of volume can also cause finer wrinkles in the facial skin generally. This has been likened to the look of a partially deflated balloon. Dermal fillers are injectable substances that can be used to address these issues.

There are a variety of dermal fillers available. By far the most common type of filler are those comprised of synthetic hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the body and is responsible for helping the skin remain hydrated and plump. The reason that hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular is due to their natural look and feel as well as their excellent safety profile. Hylauronic acid fillers are temporary and, if necessary, can be dissolved away. Other fillers often last longer but have a much greater risk of side-effects and complications.