Dr Chen Luo - Skin Cancer Doctor

About

Dr Chen is a proud Kiwi, having lived in Auckland for 28 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 at Waitakere Hospital where he was credentialed to do advanced skin surgery (flaps and grafts).

Dr Chen is also a Director of Skin Cancer Symposiums, which has taught dermatoscopy (the science of skin cancer detection) to thousands of GPs, dermatologists, plastic and ENT surgeons and nurses through courses in Oxford, London, Melbourne and Auckland.

He is passionate about the early detection of skin cancer having detected multiple cancers 1-2mm in size and 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 most (if not all!) of your moles with a dermatoscope - a hand-held skin magnifier with a special filter so structures can be seen under the skin surface. The skill of “dermoscopy” allows us to diagnose skin cancers as small as a few millimetres in size! Early treatment save lives and gives a smaller scar.

Digital mole monitoring

Not all suspicious moles need to be removed - we have the technology to “molemap” any skin lesions that are suspicious for monitoring over time.

Surgical and non-surgical treatments

Once a skin cancer has been identified, options for management are discussed which can be non-surgical or surgical. Dr Chen offers advanced surgical options such as flaps or grafts if required.

Efficient and timely service

We offer same-day biopsies for any suspicious lesions. While we are often busy, we structure our clinics so that we can endeavour to see you quickly (within 1-2 weeks) for urgent spot checks or for all referrals from your doctor. We understand that if you are worried then we are too so we will promise to see you promptly.

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. No technicians.

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!

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.

Accessible pricing and insurance friendly

The cost for a full check consultation is $160, spot check (few moles) appointments are $80. 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 member of NZ Skin Cancer Doctors.

The consultation

Most patients will receive a complete skin examination while keeping their underwear on. However, if a patient desires a more limited examination, such as only the upper half, exposed areas, or a single spot, it can be performed at the same consultation fee. A gown is not necessary since it would need to be removed for the examination, but if a patient prefers, the examination can be conducted in two halves. 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) and full nail polish (we need to see the cuticle) to the consultation.

The examination uses dermoscopy (hand-held skin magnifier) to analyse your spots, any notable spots are recorded and analyzed. Treatment, such as a biopsy or cryotherapy is typically carried out during the consultation. However, surgical excisions are usually scheduled for a separate appointment. Total body photography may be recommended for high-risk patients, and it is arranged at a separate appointment.

FAQs

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No, a referral is not required. However, if you do have a referral, we will send a letter back to your GP.

Should I still come if I don't have any concerns?

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.

Is Dr Chen affiliated with Southern Cross/NIB/AIA/Partner's Life?

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.

Locations

Dr Chen operates out in his rooms in Takapuna at Medplus Medical Centre on Mondays and in Albany at the Skin Cancer Clinic for the rest of the week. Please phone the respective clinics to book an appointment that suits you.

Medplus Medical Centre

327 Lake Road, Hauraki
(09) 489 2011
enquiries@medplus.co.nz

Skin Cancer Clinic

G08, 119 Apollo Drive, Rosedale, Auckland (Apollo Health Complex)
(09) 477 3633
reception@skincancerclinic.md