About Beach Road Surgery

Comprehensive sanitation procedures: All staff follow a strict hand washing protocol and hand sanitisers are available to all patients. Our staff undertake rigorous, regular sterilisation of treatment rooms, equipment and high-touch surfaces such as reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas in between all patient interactions.

Easy appointment cancellation and rescheduling: All patients who have recently travelled to high-risk areas as defined by the Australian government or those who are feeling unwell and show flu-like symptoms such as headache, cough or fever, are asked to reschedule their appointment. No cancellation fee will apply and we will reschedule the appointment.

No, you do not need a referral. However, if your GP has referred you to us, they will give you a letter to bring to your appointment.

A skin check can take between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on your skin type and the number of  skin spots or moles you have. Make sure you tell the doctor about any spots or moles which are sore, changing, abnormal or new.

The doctor will ask you to undress down to your underwear. You can ask for a modesty sheet if you wish. The doctor will use a dermatoscope to visually inspect your whole body. A dermatoscope is a special skin microscope which allows the doctor to look deep into your skin. The procedure is completely painless. If you have an area of concern beneath your underwear, please let the doctor know.

The doctor will tell you straight away if you have any moles or spots which require a biopsy, which means that a small sample of skin is removed for further testing. After it has been removed, the sample is sent to a pathology laboratory for diagnosis. Receiving the test results can take up to several days. The results and treatment options will be discussed with you at length at your follow-up appointment.

It is important that you have a biopsy, as the results of this procedure will influence the best course of action.

In most cases, when found early, skin cancer can be easily and successfully treated with surgery. Most skin cancers are cured once they are removed. Other non-surgical treatments may be used but this will depend on the type of skin cancer found.

We are a private billing practice, and we appreciate full payment on the day of consultation. We are dedicated to providing the best standard of patient care without compromise. Our highly qualified doctors will address your health needs promptly and efficiently, and our specially trained support staff will minimise waiting times and ensure your experience is as pleasant as possible.

Dr Walgamage is Specialist General Practitioner with advanced qualifications in skin cancer medicine and surgery. He has completed university-certified skin cancer training and has many years experience in the detection and surgical removal of skin cancers.