Welcome to the Auckland Skin Cancer Centre
Dr Chen is an experienced Skin Cancer Doctor with a Master's degree in Skin Cancer from the University of Queensland, where he also teaches as a Senior Lecturer.
About
Dr Chen is a proud Kiwi, having lived in Auckland for 29 years, and is a graduate of the University of Auckland School of Medicine. He trained under the renowned oncoplastic surgeon Ms Katherine Gale for 4 years in advanced skin surgery (flaps and grafts).
He is passionate about the early detection of skin cancer and in the latest year has identified 1.23% of all melanomas in NZ. He has an industry leading “benign malignant ratio” of 2.64 which means very low unnecessary mole excisions – better or equal to the best professor in the world. He was able to diagnose one of the smallest melanoma in the world at 1.1mm.
He strives to help his patients feel relaxed and reassured throughout the process.
He was an Albany local for 10 years and currently lives in Hauraki with his wife and son.
Dr Chen is an Affiliated Provider for Southern Cross, a NIB First Choice provider and is recognised as a specialist with all major health insurers. He is a full member of NZ Skin Cancer Doctors.
Services
Comprehensive Head to Toe Skin Checks
We look at your skin from your scalp to your toes carefully and will examine your moles under magnification with a specialised instrument called the dermoscope. Dermoscopy enables early detection as structures can be seen under the skin surface. No quick “scan” of your skin, no shortcuts – we take our time. Early treatment saves lives and gives a smaller scar.
Efficient and Timely – our 2 week promise
We offer same-day biopsies for any suspicious lesions. While we are busy, we structure our clinics so that we can endeavour to see you quickly (within 2 weeks) for urgent spot checks or for all referrals from your doctor. If a lesion is suspicious – we usually book the surgery within 2 weeks – with more urgent appointments available. We understand that if you are worried then we will act quickly too.
Digital Mole Monitoring
Not all "suspicious" moles need to be removed - we have the technology to “molemap” any skin lesions to monitor them over time. Dr Chen has an industry leading “benign-malignant ratio” of 2.64 which means very low unnecessary excisions compared to the best professor in the world. We believe in looking after you for the long term so you know we will always act with integrity.
Surgical and Non-surgical Treatments
Once a skin cancer has been identified, options for management are discussed which can be non-surgical (cream treatments like Efudix or Imiquimod) or surgical. Dr Chen offers advanced surgical options such as flaps or grafts if required. Other procedures: We also do cosmetic mole removals, hyfrecator treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia and keloid scar treatment.
Why Choose Us?
Personalised and complete service
Dr Chen will look after you from the start - skin checks, to treatment and any follow-up that is required. We are old-fashioned - we will call you for every biopsy result. You can expect the same consistent high quality experience with the same doctor that you trust.
Accessible pricing and insurance friendly
The cost for a full check consultation is $170, spot check (few moles) appointments are $85 and a biopsy is $160. We are recognized as specialists by all major insurance companies - in particular Dr Chen is a Southern Cross Accredited Provider, NIB First choice provider and a full member of NZ Skin Cancer Doctors.
Safe pair of hands
Dr Chen has a Master's degree in Skin Cancer from the University of Queensland and is a Senior Lecturer there in the Skin Cancer Masters programme. He has identified skin cancers as small as 1.1mm and has personally identified 1.23% of all melanomas in NZ this year.
Friendly and professional service
Getting a skin check can be daunting and anxiety provoking - but it doesn't have to be that way! During the consultation, we love to chat to get to know about you, your family and your hobbies while we check your skin.
The Consultation
Most patients will receive a complete skin examination while keeping their underwear/bra on. However, if a patient desires a more limited examination, such as only the upper half or exposed areas it can be performed at the same consultation fee. The examination can be conducted in two halves - top or bottom half of the body. A chaperone is available on request.
The routine examination does not include skin in the breast, genital, and buttock areas, so patients must inform the doctor of any spots they would like checked in those areas. To ensure a thorough examination, it is recommended that patients avoid wearing makeup (especially foundation).
The examination uses dermoscopy (hand-held skin magnifier) to analyse your spots, any notable spots are recorded and analysed. Treatment, such as a biopsy or cryotherapy is typically carried out during the consultation. However, surgical excisions are usually scheduled for a separate appointment (usually within 2 weeks). Total body photography may be recommended for high-risk patients, and it is arranged at a separate appointment.
FAQs
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No, a referral is not required. However, if you do have a referral, we will send a letter back to your GP.
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We do regular screening examinations even if you don't have a mole of concern because it's remarkable how frequently skin cancer is identified without your knowledge! Detecting skin cancer in its early stages could potentially be life-saving.
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Yes, Dr Chen is an Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society, a NIB First Choice Provider and has specialist status with all major insurers.
Contact Us
Auckland Skin Cancer Centre
Takapuna: 327 Lake Road, Hauraki
Phone: (09) 872 8032 Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 6pm
Email: reception@skincancercentre.co.nz
