Who will be involved in my mapping?
Melanographers with years of experience , together with our team of doctors with a special interest in surgical technique, have combined to provide this specialist service. The MOLEMAX skin imaging equipment used by our technicians, is able to capture microscopic images , magnified 30 times using light wave photographic technology. All images are then diagnosed and stored on the MOLEMAX system so changes in lesions can be carefully monitored and treated as required. Our melanographers specialize in skin cancer detection, prevention, patient education and are happy to answer any questions you may have throughout your consultation.
What is the difference between skin cancer and sun damage?
There are many different types of skin cancer. Early detection is vital in treatment of skin cancer. Melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer. Melanoma can develop for many reasons including high levels of sun exposure, concentrated exposure to UV radiation ( solariums) and people may also have a genetic predisposition and family history of melanoma. Melanoma may develop on any part of the body, not just in areas that have been exposed to the sun. 
Melanoma
Throughout your consult, your skin will be thoroughly checked for other types of skin cancers and pre- skin cancer cells including Basal Cell Carcinoma , Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Solar Lentigo, Solar Maligna and Solar Keratosis to name a few. Since opening, Peninsula Skin Cancer Centre detects up to 100 Melanomas annually, and has detected many thousands of Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinomas using dermal microscopic technology.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Squamous Cell Carcinoma
I don't have many moles but am concerned about my skin; can I still be seen by a doctor?
Full body skin checks are also one of the many services we provide at the clinic. Full body skin checks take up to half an hour. Our Melanographers do a full body examination using hand held dermoscopy to identify any lesion or areas on the skin that may require diagnosis and treatment. A doctor is also present for this consultation. Full body checks are a great way for our professionals to assess the skin and advice on an appropriate method of monitoring and treatment.
What do I need to do when I arrive for my appointment at Peninsula Skin Cancer Centre?
Our friendly reception staff will ensure they have the appropriate personal details required for your visit. You will then be directed to a melanographer who will discuss your history and any concerns you may have. Once you have changed into a gown provided, the melanographer will take a full set of body shots. These photos enable us to have a complete record and history of all the existing lesions on your skin. The melanographer will then proceed to check your skin using the dermlite technology. The melanographer will then take a microscopic image of any lesions that present characteristics subject to change in size, color, network, borders or symmetry.
Molemax can detect early microscopic changes. Changes shown above were detected in this melanoma within a 12 week period.
How long will my consulation take?
A full Mole Mapping can take up to one hour, including the consultation with both the melanographer and the doctor. A skin check consultation will take up to half an hour.
Is molemapping painful?
Mole mapping consultations and skin checks are completely non- invasive and are pain free. Both procedures are safe for all individuals including children, pregnant women and people with previously diagnosed skin conditions.
What happens if we find something?
After all lesions are microscopically imaged and recorded, the doctor will then diagnose all lesions examined with the melanographer and yourself. Any moles that present with atypical characteristics will more than likely be reviewed in which case a follow up image is taken within a twelve week period to detect any microscopic change.
What happens if I need a mole removed?
Any patient who requires a surgical excision will be briefed at the time of their mapping consultation and will be scheduled for their procedure at this time. All procedures are carried out using a local anesthetic and take up to half an hour. At Peninsula Skin Cancer Centre we have two fully staffed theatres on site with theatre nurses and doctors who specialize in skin cancer surgical technique in attendance.
How often do I need to come back to the clinic?
Doctors recommend that patients attend the clinic annually for a follow up Mole Mapping consultation. During this consultation all lesions will be re-imaged to check for changing moles. Patients with a history of skin cancer or who present as high risk patients may be reviewed more regularly.