Skin cancer screening – Frequently asked questions
Many of our patients ask the following questions. If your question is not answered here, please contact us.
Will I see a skin cancer expert?
Yes . Dr Bowling performs all consultations and examinations personally, guaranteeing an expert opinion and total confidence in you skin cancer assessment. This is important as many high street clinics, offering ‘skin cancer screening’ or ‘mole checks’, may have non-medically qualified staff offering opinions. For something as important as melanoma always seek an expert opinion and check the qualifications of the person performing the examination.
Consultations can be booked directly with the clinics ensuring fast and direct access to expert care.
What is dermoscopy?
Dermoscopy is a diagnostic technique that uses a specially designed too to illuminate and magnify structures within the skin, making them visible to the naked eye. The greater the expertise of the consultant, the greater the accuracy of the dermoscopy assessment and the more likely it is that cases of melanoma will be detected and diagnosed. This expertise also prevents many benign moles from being removed, whilst also increasing the detection of early melanoma. Find out more…
What does the appointment involve?
- Consultation: A detailed medical consultation will take place and risk factors for skin cancers including melanoma will be discussed.
- Examination: All areas of the skin will be examined except for the genital areas. Patients are strongly advised to check these areas before undergoing the examination and advise Dr Bowling of any moles present at these sites. This is very important as melanoma can occur at any skin site.
How should I prepare for my skin cancer examination?
- Wear clothes that are easy to take off and put back on again. Female patients should wear separates.
- Avoid wearing make-up, nail polish and avoid skin-staining preparations (e.g. self-tanning products) for at least 2 weeks prior to examination.
- Recent sun exposure should be avoided, if possible, as this causes changes to be seen in moles.
How often should I have a skin cancer check?
This will depend upon your risk factors and findings on examination.
When will I get the results?
Because Dr Bowling is an expert in his field, you will have your results immediately at the end of the consultation.
What happens if a skin cancer is detected?
If a skin cancer is detected treatment can be arranged directly at Dr Bowling’s clinics.
Treatment can also be arranged for any areas that have the potential to become skin cancers (pre-malignant lesions) during the consultation.