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    PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA

    Skin Cancer Surgery

    Learn surgical procedures for the nose and lower limbs, reconstruction techniques, skin grafts, and flaps.

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    Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery workshop

    Overview

    The program covers surgical procedures for the nose and the lower limb, reconstruction of alar and sidewall nasal defects, reconstruction of the nasal tip and glabellar defects, and skin grafts and flaps for the lower limb.

    • This course is perfect for advanced practitioners with a special interest in skin cancer and prior skin cancer surgery training.
    • Delivered by an experienced team of GPs and doctors who practise exclusively in skin cancer medicine.
    • This course is for physicians only.
    • CPD-accredited and university-assured.

    CPD requirements

    Fulfils 50 hrs for medical professionals in Australia

    Study modes

    100% online
    Online + workshop

    Course fee

    Fully online: $2595
    Online + workshop: from $3895
    Special rates available

    Study duration

    83 hrs
    Self-paced

    Workshop dates & locations

    2025
    7 Sep in Sydney
    19 Oct in Melbourne
    Quality assured by bond university

    Course benefits

    • Confidently perform a variety of flaps, such as neurovascular island, bilobed, banner, rhomboid, and V-Y.
    • Master complex excisions with optimal wound closure and scarring results.
    • Expand reconstructive options in anatomically complex and cosmetically sensitive areas, such as the eyelids and periorbital defects. 
    • Become a sought-after expert in skin cancer surgery, reduce referrals, and be a referral option for colleagues.
    • Learn from noted doctors and gain the knowledge to handle the most advanced surgical procedures.

    Get unlimited access to all course content, additional learning materials, ongoing post-course support, and more.

    *These topics are covered during the hands-on practical sessions in the optional skills workshop.

    View the workshop program.

    Course contents

    Neurovascular island flaps*

    This module focuses on skin cancer surgery relating to neurovascular island flaps. The Bezier and keystone neurovascular island flaps come with blood supply so are not generally undermined and are cut all around the defect. These flaps are usually applied to the lower legs. When preparing for skin cancer surgery, patient history and circumstances are to be considered. Neuropathies of the nerves and compartments of the leg are described. Blood supply to the planned flap must be ensured and infrared cameras assist with this. Diagrams of how to mark out the Bezier and keystone flap including clinical cases and practical demonstrations assist learning. Advantages and disadvantages of these flaps are outlined. Recordings of planning and performing these flaps in both the clinical setting and on pork parts are included.     

    Bilobed flaps*

    In this module, participants will learn about the bilobed flap, commonly used for reconstruction of nasal tip lesions by utilising the lateral nose and medial cheek. It may also be used for ear and cheek lesions. Nasal subunit images and guides to planning the flap repair are listed. The nasolabial angle determines the rotation of the nose and diagrams explain the angles.  Diagrams and schematics demonstrate the planning of the bilobed flap including the related mathematics. The bilobed flap typically rotates from a lateral pivot point for side wall and nasal tip defects. The nasal muscles, skin thickness, blood supply and the trigeminal nerve must all be considered with this flap. Recordings of planning and performing bilobed flaps in both the clinical setting and on pork parts concludes this module.  

    Banner and rhomboid flaps*

    This module focuses on skin cancer surgery relating to banner and rhomboid flaps (part 3). Participants will learn about these flaps and their application to skin lesion repair to the lip, nose and ear. These flaps are also versatile and can be used anywhere on the body to preserve tissue and move adjacent spare tissue to the excision area. Diagrams outline the standard rhomboid flap including skin tension lines. The rhomboid flap marking out is from the defect outwards. Transposition flaps are similar to rhomboid in that it rotates about a pivot point however it differs in its design. Cosmetic subunits of the face, lips and chin and mathematical diagrams are included. Clinical images and recordings of planning and performing rhomboid flaps in the clinical setting are included in this module.     

    V-Y flaps*

    This module focuses on skin cancer surgery relating to V-Y Flaps. The V-Y flap is a neurovascular island flap with 360 degree excision, no undermining and uses blood supply from underneath the wound area. The V-Y is useful on the nose, especially the side wall of the nose. Muscles of the nose are detailed. Flaps are generally preferable to skin grafts because they have a better colour and contour match and heal faster. Drawings of the V-Y flap demonstrate its application. Variants of the V-Y are described including the horn flap, with clinical images demonstrating the planning and post-operative success. Recordings of the planning and performing V-Y flaps in both the clinical setting and on pork parts are included.  

    Lip wedges*

    This module focuses on skin cancer surgery relating to lip wedges. This module begins with a revision of the lip anatomy, blood, nerve and muscle supplies, as understanding these are essential when planning lip wedges. Fundamental principles of lip wedge excision are explained including how to prevent microstomia. Information on the Abbe lip switch, the Estlander flap and Gillies/Karapandzic flaps are explained. Schematic diagrams and clinical images are provided to demonstrate best practice planning techniques. Recordings in both the clinical setting and on pork parts are included.    

    Periorbital defects*

    This module focuses on skin cancer surgery relating to periorbital defects. Participants will learn the planning behind how to remove lesions on the eyelids. Planning procedures in this sensitive area requires a considered approach. The subunits and eye anatomy are explained in addition to listing the essential principles and practical tips for lower eyelid surgery. Comprehensive information for planning ellipses or flaps is included. The module then looks at when to use either the full thickness and split skin grafts and graft planning techniques including information on the donor and recipient sites. Recordings in the clinical setting are included.  

    Tips and tricks revisited for skin cancer surgery

    This module focuses on the tips and tricks relating to skin cancer surgery. These tips and tricks offer helpful information when planning skin cancer surgery. The module commences with images of the cosmetic subunits, as where possible, skin cancer surgery procedures should remain in the same or adjacent subunits to maximise the best cosmetic healing. Clinical and graphical images are featured to support the teaching. Options for ear repairs are listed. The module stresses the importance of patient history and how some patient conditions may impact skin cancer surgery outcomes. Tips include how to set the ambience to relax both the doctor and patient and the importance of keeping comprehensive patient records including photos. Local anaesthetic, syringes/needle size and scar care are mentioned. Sutures are covered including what sutures to use for what wounds. Planning skin cancer surgery on dual lesions, rhomboid, flaps and grafts are also summarised. Anticoagulation issues and points of skin cancer surgery wisdom are listed. Options for suture techniques on the chest, upper and lower limbs, and the abdomen are demonstrated.  The advantages and disadvantages for each option are discussed. Mesh dressings for wound protection including the pros and cons are detailed. Procedural options on the face are discussed together with clinical images to support planning for two defect closures.  

    Did you know you can also study most of these course modules in HealthCert 365?

    If you're not interested in pursuing a full certificate in this field but simply want to enhance your skills in specific topics covered in this course, you can access the content of this and other courses for a flat fee of $83 per month (paid annually) within HealthCert 365.

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    Meet your instructors

     
    DrAnthonyAzzi
     
    Dr Anthony Azzi 
    MBBS, MMed (Skin Cancer)

     

    Senior Lecturer, The University of Queensland

    Director at Newcastle Skin Check, Charlestown NSW

    Dr Anthony Azzi graduated from the University of Sydney in 1989 and moved to Newcastle, where he spent the next 13 years working in the public hospital system. He now works in private practice as a Skin Cancer Doctor and Assistant Surgeon. He completed a Master of Medicine in Skin Cancer from The University of Queensland, where he is now a Senior Lecturer. He is a member of the Australian Medical Association, Skin Cancer College Australasia, and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine.

     
    Dr_Victor_Harling
     

    Dr Victor Harling
    MBBS

     

    Doctor, National Skin Cancer Centres, Redcliffe
     
    Dr Victor Harling obtained his medical degrees from The University of Queensland in 1983. He worked for Queensland Health and the Wesley Emergency Centre for many years before pursuing his interest in Skin Cancer Medicine. Victor undertakes regular professional development courses and has obtained a Diploma of Skin Cancer from the Skin Cancer College Australasia. He is passionate about skin cancer medicine and surgery, and shares his vast expertise with fellow GPs in HealthCert certificate course and Clinical Attachments at the Redcliffe Skin Cancer Centre.
     
    Dr_Alister_Lilleyman
     
     Dr Alister Lilleyman
    MBBS, MMed (Skin Cancer), FSCCA

     

    Senior Lecturer, The University of Queensland

    Doctor, Newcastle Skin Check

    Dr Alister Lilleyman graduated from the University of Western Australia in 1994 and spent the next six years working in the public hospital system. After moving to Newcastle in 2003, he began working in private practice as a Skin Cancer Doctor, Assistant Surgeon, and Vein and Laser Physician. He completed a Master of Medicine degree in Skin Cancer Medicine from The University of Queensland, where he is now a Senior Lecturer. He is a proud member of the AMA (Australian Medical Association), College of Phlebology, and Fellow of the Skin Cancer College Australasia.

    Study modes

    Study 100% online

    100% online

    Study at your own pace and to your own schedule. Interactivity, discussion, and feedback opportunities are included.

    • View and replay video lectures at your convenience.
    • Participate in online case discussions and interact with your peers.
    • Attend or watch recordings of live tutorials with experts in this field.
    • Ask questions and discuss clinical cases in live tutorials.
    • Complete your assessment online and receive your CPD hours and the Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery Principles.
    Study online and complete a practical workshop

    Online + workshop

    Complete your course online and receive all the benefits of online study, then put theory into practice at a small-group workshop.

    • Gain hands-on practise in various procedures under expert guidance.
    • Workshops are available in Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney.
    • Receive the Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery.

     

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    HealthCert 365 - a digital CPD library

    HealthCert 365

    Easily meet your CPD requirements and gain valuable skills – all in one place for $83 per month.

    • Customise your learning experience by accessing and focusing only on course modules that interest you the most.
    • Gain access to 200+ additional CPD activities and 50-hour special focus CPD programs, sourced from all HealthCert university-assured programs.
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    Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery

    from $2595

    .

    • Meets the 50hr annual CPD requirement
    • 100% online from $2595 or with face-to-face workshop from $3695
    • Workshops in Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney
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    Bundle two courses and save 5%, or three courses and save 10% upon enrolment.
    Talk to us about deferred payment options, registrar scholarships and special rates.

    Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery example
    This certificate meets the 50hr annual CPD requirement for medical practitioners

    I'm currently completing both the Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery and the Professional Diploma of Dermoscopy and the progression over time in both courses has been superb. I am very pleased that these courses have tutors and are fully accredited.

    Dr C. Boberg

    Essential training for any GP with an interest in skin cancer management or diagnosis.

    Dr M. Yeo

    I have trained with HealthCert since 2010 and it has never disappointed me. I really enjoy the courses. Thank you!

    Dr R. Phiri

    Excellent and well presented content. I really enjoyed all the sessions. The course was well organised, relaxed and informative.

    Dr D. Christian

    Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

    Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity.

    RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours Outcome Hours
    408617 28532 Bezier and keystone neurovascular island flaps 408617 28532 4.5 5 0
    408629 28533 The Bilobed flap 408629 28533 4 5 0
    408649 28534 Banner and Rhomboid flaps 408649 28534 3.5 5 0
    408653 28535 V-Y Flaps and variants 408653 28535 3.5 5 0
    408659 28536 Lip Wedges 408659 28536 3.5 5 0
    408661 28537 Eyelids - Ellipses, flaps and grafts 408661 28537 3.5 5 0
    408665 28538 Tips and Tricks revisited 408665 28538 4 5 0
    592320 31374 Clinical Audit of Skin Cancer Surgery 592320 31374 0 2 19.5
    766233 32437 Professional Knowledge, Skills and Networking 766233 32437 6 0 0
    Total hours 32.5 37 19.5

    View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities. 

    Workshop CPD hours

    The optional Complex Skin Cancer Surgery Practical Workshop is accredited for 8.5 CPD hours total.

    Education hours: 1
    Performance hours: 7.5

    Outcome measurement

    The peer reviewed comprehensive clinical audit associated with this professional diploma exceeds the annual CPD outcome measurement hours.

    Pre- and post-course information

    Entry requirements

    The Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery is suitable for physicians only. Participants must have completed the Professional Certificate of Skin Cancer Surgery and Advanced Certificate of Skin Cancer Surgery (or qualifications deemed equivalent) in sequential order. It is recommended that 300 cases of skin cancer surgery have been completed before enrolling in this course.

    Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing in English is assumed.

    Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

    Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

    Doctors who have completed The University of Queensland certificate courses in skin cancer surgery are able to gain credit for those studies, providing the relevant HealthCert assessment is completed prior to diploma studies commencing (please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for the process). 

    Further professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

    Certification

    This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types.

    Upon completion of all course requirements, you will receive the Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery and CPD hours. (Participants who choose to complete the online course components only (no practical workshop) will receive the Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery Principles.)

    This certificate course:
    • Is quality-assured by Bond University.
    • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).
    • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).
    • Is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP).
    • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.
    • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Please contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.
    • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.
    • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.
    • Qualifies for a clinical attachment in France at the University of Lyon.
    • Qualifies for a clinical attachment in Austria at the University of Vienna.
    • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.
    • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

    Australia-based course participants, please note that HealthCert certificates are not accredited by TEQSA or ASQA and do not fall within the Australian Qualification Framework. All HealthCert certificates are professional development awards.

    To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

    Pathways

    Postgraduate pathways

    Graduates of the HealthCert Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery may apply for a scholarship to an online Master degree from our partner in the UK. HealthCert recommends the MSc in Dermatology in Clinical Practice which is awarded by University of Buckingham. Please contact our UK partner directly regarding this scholarship: https://www.diploma-msc.com/s/healthcert

    RPL with Torrens University

    This postgraduate pathway is for General Practitioners and degree-qualified medical practitioners who have successfully completed a HealthCert Professional Diploma (all three levels) in Skin Cancer Medicine, Skin Cancer Surgery or Dermoscopy. The following postgraduate course is offered entirely online through Torrens University: Master of Business Administration (MBA). Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for two general electives for any HealthCert Professional Diploma. In cases where a HealthCert alumni has completed two Professional Diplomas, they will be able to apply for four general electives towards the MBA. This will be helpful to further develop business, management and leadership capabilities. Please apply directly to Torrens University.

    RPL with The University of Queensland

    Master of Medicine (Skin Cancer)
    Doctors who complete the HealthCert Professional Diploma programs in Dermoscopy, Skin Cancer Medicine, and Skin Cancer Surgery will receive RPL for the units IMED7002, IMED7010, and IMED7011, which are high-level subjects in the Master of Medicine (Skin Cancer) at The University of Queensland. The Master of Medicine is open only to registered medical practitioners with at least two years' postgraduate experience. View The University of Queensland Master of Medicine (Skin Cancer) program.

    Please note, only HealthCert Education qualifications completed within the last ten years can be recognised. 

    Postgraduate Diploma in Minor Surgery (UK)

    The Postgraduate Diploma in Minor Surgery is studied through the Rila Institute of Health Sciences and awarded by the University of Plymouth (UK).

    There are three modules in the Postgraduate Diploma. Medical professionals who successfully complete the HealthCert Professional Certificate of Skin Cancer Surgery, Advanced Certificate of Skin Cancer Surgery and Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery will be eligible to apply for Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APCL) for module 3.

    The Postgraduate Diploma is mainly delivered online. No practical workshops will be required due to the APCL from the HealthCert qualifications. Overall there will be a time saving of 40 per cent of the postgraduate program due to the APCL. Exams will be held in Perth, Western Australia.

    When the Postgraduate Diploma has been successfully completed, doctors can apply for credit from the Postgraduate Diploma to the Master of Science in the Specialism awarded by the University of Plymouth.

    Certified Clinical Attachments Pathway

    Clinical attachments are optional and available on a 1:1 or small group basis. These provide the opportunity to observe skin cancer surgery and ask questions of the expert performing the procedures. In addition to clinical attachments in Australia, university teaching hospitals at the University of Lyon and the University of Vienna are available for clinical attachments. HealthCert certificates and university statements are awarded for participating in clinical attachments.

    The dominant areas of study covered by The Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 are science and medicine. Attached to the university are the "Hospices civils de Lyon" including the "Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud", which is the largest teaching hospital in the Rhône-Alpes region and second largest in France. Out of the 2,630 faculty, 700 are also medical practitioners at local teaching hospitals.

    The Medical University of Vienna is the largest medical organisation in Austria, as well as one of the top-level research institutions in Europe and provides Europe's largest hospital, the Vienna General Hospital, with all of its medical staff. The Vienna General Hospital has about 100,000 patients treated as inpatients and 605,000 treated as outpatients each year.

    University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider 

    This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

    RACGP Major Provider
    ACRRM-2023-logo_200x100
    Quality assured by Bond University
    Postgraduate RPL with UQ
    RPL available with Torrens University
    Rila - Institute of Health Sciences
    Clinical attachments with the Medical University of Vienna
    Clinical attachments available with the Medical Univeristy of Lyon
    Clinical attachments available with the National Skin Cancer Centres

    Frequently asked questions

    Don't see your question? Explore other faqs or talk to us.

    What are the costs and payment options of the course?

    Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

    What is the Alumni Support Program?

    Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

    • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.
    • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.
    • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.
    • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.
    • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.
    How will I receive my certificate?

    HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

    How long will the course take to complete?

    The recommended study duration of this certificate course is 83 hours, which includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

    Is this course recognised in my country?

    All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

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