Mole Checks in Hadleigh, Essex
Mole checks and screening are for anyone worried about a mole, anyone with lots of moles, and anyone who wants peace of mind about their skin. Using advanced digital technology, we capture detailed images of the moles across your body so they can be examined and compared over time. This makes it possible to spot new moles or changes to existing ones early. That matters because signs of skin cancer, such as melanoma, are most treatable when they are found at an early stage.
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How does Mole Screening work?
We start by examining your skin and moles with a dermoscope, a magnifying tool that shows detail the naked eye cannot see. Using the Map My Mole system, we then take precise digital images of your moles and store them as a baseline. Dermatologists analyse the images, flag any mole that needs a closer look and recommend how often you should be checked. The goal is early detection of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma.
How often should I have my moles checked?
It depends on your risk. If you have a history of skin cancer or a large number of moles, checks every three to six months may be recommended. If your risk is lower, an annual check is usually enough, with a quick self-check at home each month. Regular checks matter because they catch suspicious changes early, when they are easiest to treat.
Why are unusual moles photographed instead of removed?
Most of the moles we photograph are not suspicious for melanoma. They simply have unusual features that do not fit the usual pattern. Photographing them for dermatologist review means we avoid removing harmless moles unnecessarily, while making sure anything that does need a closer look is flagged.
FAQs
What should I do to prepare for a Mole Screening appointment?
Do not apply lotions or creams before your appointment, as they can affect image quality. Wear comfortable, loose clothing so all areas of your skin are easy to reach. If you have noticed a new or changing mole, make a note of it so we can look at it during your appointment.
How long does a Mole Screening session take?
A session usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many moles you have and which areas of the body we are checking. We capture detailed images of all your moles and record them as a baseline for future comparisons.
Will Mole Screening detect all types of skin cancer?
Mole mapping is very effective at spotting changes that may indicate malignant melanoma and other skin cancers, especially when your skin is monitored over time. It is not a substitute for a full skin examination, so regular follow-ups and further tests may still be needed.
What happens if a mole shows significant changes during a follow-up?
If a mole has changed significantly, your dermatologist may recommend a closer examination or a biopsy to find out whether it is cancerous. Catching change early means any problem can be treated quickly.