Dr Ashish Arora
FRACGP, MRCGP (UK), Dip Derm (UK)
Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery
Professional Diploma of Dermoscopy
Advanced Certification in Cosmetic Procedures
Dip Occ Med (UK), DRCOG (UK), Dip Therapeutics (UK)
Dr Ashish Arora is a Skin Cancer Doctor. He performs full body skin checks and skin cancer surgery on all body areas including difficult areas such as ears, nose and eyelids. He does not do cosmetic mole removals. Please note he is not a bulk billing doctor and private fees apply to all consults regardless of concession card status.
Dr Ash qualified from Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland in 1992. Dr Ash was a GP Partner in the UK for 3 years. While a GP partner he also worked in a childrenβs Hospice (3 years) and was also a part time Forensic Medical Examiner for South Wales Police (4 years). Dr Ash was a tutor and examiner for the Diploma in Dermatology, Cardiff University, Wales, UK for 1 year.
Dr Ash worked in the Royal Air Force (UK) for 5 years. He was a Commissioned Officer holding the rank of Squadron Leader. He holds a commendation by the General Officer Commanding for his management of medivac patients in helicopters while in the RAF. Dr Ash has been a GP in Australia since 2010 and has worked in a rural community as well as semi-rural settings. He is a proud Australian citizen, has many sporting interests and enjoys cooking.
What to Anticipate at Your Skin Check Appointment
When you visit the Rivervale Skin Cancer Clinic for your skin check, we aim to ensure a thorough assessment of your skin health. Here's what you can expect during your appointment:
Patient Questionnaire:
Upon arrival, you will be asked to complete a patient questionnaire. It's helpful if you bring a list of your current medications and the contact details of your local GP to assist in completing your medical history.
Medical and Family History:
During your consultation, your doctor will review your medical history and inquire about your family history, particularly in relation to previous skin cancers, medications you are taking, your occupation, and any medication allergies you may have.
Medications and Medical Devices:
Your doctor will inquire about any blood-thinning medications (e.g., Aspirin, Warfarin, Plavix) and whether you have a pacemaker. It's essential to inform your doctor about any specific skin spots that concern you.
Full Body Skin Check Explained
Many skin cancers go unnoticed by patients, and a full body skin check can reveal issues that you may not be aware of. Therefore, we recommend a comprehensive skin examination for all patients. Here's what to expect during a full body skin check:
Undressing:
For a thorough examination, you will need to undress to your underwear. We can provide an examination gown or a blanket for your comfort.
Inspection: The doctor will carefully inspect your entire body, looking for abnormal skin spots with unusual shapes or colors. While genital areas and breasts are usually not inspected, if you have concerns about spots in these areas, please inform your doctor.
Scalp Examination:
If you are bald, your scalp will be examined. Even if you have a full head of hair, a thorough scalp examination is recommended. Long hair can obstruct a complete examination, so consider getting a haircut before your skin check.
Makeup Removal:
Patients are typically asked to remove all makeup, including lipstick and foundation, before the examination.
Equipment Used in Skin Checks
Dr Ash utilise various equipment for skin checks to ensure a comprehensive assessment:
Visual Inspection:
Your skin will be examined using good lighting and a magnification device. A dermatoscope, a high-magnification device, may be used for closer examination of specific skin spots.
Photography:
High-magnification digital cameras are used to take pictures of skin lesions for future reference and monitoring. Total body photography may be recommended for patients with numerous moles.
Screen Analysis:
Doctors Ash use high-resolution screens to analyse skin spots, providing additional information about the likelihood of melanoma.
Total Body Mapping: Your doctor may offer total body mapping, especially if it would be useful based on your condition.
What Happens If a Suspicious Spot Is Found?
If a suspicious skin lesion is discovered during your skin check, your doctor may recommend further analysis, which could involve a skin biopsy for examination at a histopathology lab. Sometimes, melanomas develop slowly and are best monitored over time. This may involve taking digital photographs of the lesion for comparison at subsequent appointments.
Treatment and Follow-Up:
If you are diagnosed with a skin cancer, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you, which may be performed in our purpose-built treatment rooms. These procedures may include cryotherapy (freezing), electrosurgery (burning), or shave biopsies, depending on the nature of the lesion.
Follow-Up Recommendations
The follow-up after your skin check will depend on the outcome:
Mildly Atypical Moles:
If you have mildly atypical moles, you may be asked to return in three months for a follow-up examination and comparison photographs.
Abnormal Spots:
For spots that appear highly abnormal, arrangements will be made for removal or biopsy in our treatment room.
Future Skin Checks:
Based on your risk factors, skin type, and any abnormal findings, your doctor will provide recommendations on when to return for regular full body skin checks.