Mole checks / Mole mapping
Mole and blemish checks (also referred to as mole mapping) are absolutely vital to ensure anything concerning is found early. During your 30-minute appointment, our clinicians conduct a meticulous examination, assessing each mole and skin lesion for any signs of concern.
Our doctors are experts in dermoscopy, utilising advanced microscopic techniques to analyse skin lesions with precision. For any moles or lesions of concern, we capture high-resolution photographs to monitor changes over time, aiding in early detection of potential issues. The benefit of human analysis is the ability to discuss the findings with your clinician during your appointment. Our clinicians will educate you about your skin type and provide personalised guidance on how to perform regular self-examinations of your moles.
As we age, the occurrence of skin growths increases. While most are benign and don’t require surgical intervention, it’s essential to have them evaluated to rule out any serious conditions. Some lesions may be pre-cancerous but can often be effectively treated with cryotherapy (freezing) or topical medications when detected early.
Factors such as skin type and past sun exposure significantly influence an individual’s susceptibility to skin cancers.
What happens if we find something?
Should we identify any concerning moles, we offer in-house treatment options (additional fees apply) or can facilitate a referral to the NHS for further assessment and monitoring. This may include a referral to the NHS two-week-wait service, or a routine NHS appointment depending on the severity of any concerns.
Our clinicians are dedicated to guiding you through the best care pathway, clearly explaining your options to ensure you feel informed and reassured. You do not need to be stuck in an expensive private route. In some cases, it can result in a swifter outcome to go back into the NHS. Our clinicians will ensure this happens without additional burden on you or your GP.
Beyond mole checks, our team also offers mole removal, as well as treatments for skin tags, cysts, warts, and keloid scars.
Our Specialisms
How it works
From the moment you book your appointment to post-treatment care, we’re here to support you.
- Booking your appointment
With Oxona, there’s no need for a referral and you can book your appointment online, over the phone or by email. All appointments require a pre-paid deposit due at the time of booking. - Initial consultation & skin examination
Your appointment begins with a consultation, where our dermatologist will discuss any concerns you have about your moles or skin lesions. We then perform a thorough mole check, using advanced dermoscopy technology to examine moles in detail. - Mole assessment & risk evaluation
During the mole check, we assess moles for any irregularities using the ABCDE method (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving changes). If a mole appears suspicious, we will advise on the next steps. - Next steps: Monitoring, Biopsy, or Removal
If no concerns are found: We provide advice on how to monitor your moles at home.If a mole requires monitoring: We may recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment for further evaluation.
If removal is advised: We offer mole removal procedures at our clinic, including shave excision and ellipse excision, or we can refer you for NHS assessment if necessary.
- Aftercare & ongoing skin health
If you undergo mole removal, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and reduce scarring. We also offer guidance on sun protection and self-checking to help maintain long-term skin health.
Why choose Oxona?
Time
Your appointment will provide you with the time necessary to discuss your concerns thoroughly. Unlike many NHS appointments, our doctors can start from the beginning, address all your questions thoroughly, and ensure that you feel truly heard.
Expert care
All our specialists have devoted time to developing their unique skill sets to ensure that you receive the highest quality care. They are highly trained in their respective areas of expertise to guarantee the best possible outcomes for you.
Fair & transparent pricing
All our prices are transparent and available for viewing on our website. There are no hidden costs. Should you require further guidance on pricing, our reception team will be happy to assist you via email or phone.
Appointment availability
We know busy lifestyles and work schedules can make booking appointments tricky. We offer a range of appointment days and times, including Saturdays in our larger centres, to provide the flexibility that you need.
What our patients think
Frequently asked questions
What is a mole check?
A mole check is a thorough examination of your skin conducted by a qualified dermatologist to assess moles and other pigmented lesions for any signs of abnormalities or skin cancer.
What happens during a professional mole check?
During a mole check, a dermatologist will visually inspect your skin and may use a dermatoscope—a handheld device that magnifies and illuminates the skin—to examine moles in detail.
Are all moles cancerous?
No, most moles are benign and harmless. However, it’s essential to monitor them for any changes, as alterations in a mole’s appearance can be an early sign of skin cancer.
What should I look for during self-examinations?
When performing self-examinations, use the ABCDE rule to identify suspicious moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
- Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
- Colour: Variations in colour, including different shades or multiple colours.
- Diameter: Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or elevation, or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.
What should I do if I notice a change in a mole?
If you observe any changes in a mole’s size, shape, colour, or experience symptoms like itching or bleeding, consult a dermatologist immediately for a professional evaluation.
Can I claim for my appointment on insurance?
You need to speak to your insurer prior to your appointment. Some insurers will reimburse you for the appointment, but you will need to present any documentation at the time of your appointment for the doctor to sign. Please note that all our doctors are registered with the GMC on the GP register not the consultant register. Please ensure you make this clear to your insurers at the outset.
Do you treat children under the age of 18?
Yes, we can treat under 18s at both our clinics. However, for more invasive procedures or those requiring a certain level of pain tolerance, such as removing moles or skin tags, we would recommend only over 10s.
Why is cyst removal more expensive than mole or blemish removal?
Cyst removal can be more complex as usually they are stuck down to underlying tissue. The cyst has to be teased away very carefully to ensure the entire cyst is removed and so that you get the best possible cosmetic result.