Are you in search of mole mapping in Melbourne? Did you know that in just four minutes, you can get the entirety of your skin’s surface scanned for the presence of skin cancer? Here at The Clinic, we have the FotoFinder Bodystudio ATBM that makes it possible.
We’re a Werribee based medical clinic, but we welcome patients from all over the state. Contact us on 9741 1200, visit our website or read on for more information on our mole mapping process.
Mole mapping with advanced medical technology
Screening the entirety of your skin in just one quick session is made possible through The FotoFinder Bodystudio ATBM. This incredible piece of machinery enables our doctors to perform thorough, but quick, skin cancer checks that are more comprehensive than a standard mole check.
Mole mapping like this is great as it can scan the moles you aren’t even aware of.
How does total body mole mapping work?
During your first scan, the FotoFinder will scan your entire skin surface through photographic imaging. This scan includes the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. The automatic process assists in the early detection of skin cancer and helps give patients the peace of mind in knowing that their entire skin’s surface has been checked.
Some of the benefits of the FotoFinder are:
The early detection of skin cancer: The earlier skin cancer is detected, the better. If caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Early detection saves lives.
Helps avoid unnecessary interventions. Due to the thoroughness of the scan, it can help avoid unnecessary intervention with moles, like excisions.
Compares each scan: Your earlier scans will be compared with your most recent so any mole changes, no matter how small, will be highlighted.
Long-term mole monitoring: as mentioned above, the FotoFinder enables comparison of previous scans to the most recent.
Highlights atypical moles: The scan can bring your doctor's attention to atypical moles that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Comprehensive mole mapping: your whole skin surface is scanned for the presence of skin cancer.
Risk scores: your moles are given risk scores so you and your doctor can be aware of any that may need closer monitoring or further investigation.
If you'd like to know more about the FotoFinder, see this article which has a short video that takes you through the process.
Why is mole mapping important?
As an Australian, or resident of Australia, you likely know of how common skin cancer is. With our constant exposure to high UV, particularly in the warmer months, engaging in regular mole mapping can be key in the early detection of skin cancer. As stated above, the earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat.
Skin cancer in Australia
According to the Cancer Council Australia, two-thirds of Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70. So, with skin cancer being so prevalent in Australia, we recommend having a yearly professional skin cancer check.
Yearly checks help with the early diagnosis of skin cancer, which increases the likeliness of successful treatment.
While professional skin cancer checks are recommended, it's just as important to regularly check your own skin at through an at-home mole check. The benefit of regular at-home skin checks is that you’ll become more familiar with your skin and you may notice changes more quickly than you might have otherwise.
If you notice any changes in your moles or the appearance of new ones, make an appointment to see your doctor.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the ABCDE approach for mole changes to look out for. The mole changes to look out for include:
Asymmetry: look for asymmetric moles
Border: look for an irregular or spreading border
Colour: look for moles with many colours or blotchy spots. The colours include black, red, white/grey, and blue
Diameter: look out for moles that are getting larger
Evolving: look out for moles that are increasing in size or changing in any way
If ever in doubt, please see your GP for advice. While it’s easy to dismiss it as nothing, it's important to take your health seriously. Remember that your GP is there for your health and no question is silly.
When checking your skin, don’t forget to check your entire skin's surface! That includes places people often forget such as scalp, armpits, between your fingers, under your fingernails, between your toes and your palms and soles of your feet. If you can’t see certain areas of your body, ask a loved one for help or see your doctor.
Sun safety
Another factor to consider is sun safety. Practising sun safety can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Our top tips for sun safety:
Check the UV rating each morning and follow sun safety measures accordingly
Get into the daily habit of wearing sunscreen (and don’t forget to reapply every 2-4 hours!)
Wear sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
Stay in the shade where possible
Don’t sun bake or deliberately try to tan
Avoid sun exposure during peak UV times
Mole Mapping in Melbourne at The Clinic
Are you interested in making an appointment with our Skin Cancer Clinic? We have doctors specially trained in skin cancer medicine and they can perform screening, diagnosis and treatment (including excisions).
You’ll find us at 15 Princes Highway, Werribee. We have onsite parking or we are easily accessible via public transport. Please click here for more information on how to find us.
You can learn more about our doctors here, explore our other services, book an appointment online or contact us to speak with one of our friendly staff members.
If you would like to visit us for your skin cancer check, please call us on 9741 1200, or book an appointment online.
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