WHO IS SUITABLE FOR MOLE MAPPING?

Practically anyone. However those who fall under anyone of the following categories are encouraged even more to undergo this procedure:

  • those with fair skin
  • those with a personal family history of skin cancer
  • those who already have a number of moles and/or freckles
  • those whose work or lifestyle entails them to spend daily a number of hours exposed to the sun

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR A MOLE MAP?

You will be asked to remove all clothing in order to expose the moles. Hence one should wear clothes that are easily removable. It is advisable that you wear easy to remove clothing and, in the case of females, to wear strapless bras. Avoid putting on any creams since these will cause unwanted reflections. It is also advisable to refrain from wearing any jewellery since these have to be removed completely.

WHAT ABOUT PRIVACY / EMBARRASSMENT ISSUES?

In order to undergo a total body mole map, clothing has to be removed. However small briefs and, in the case of females, bras can be left on. The issue of patient modesty is taken very seriously. Each area of your body is photographed in turn – so you only need to be partly undressed at any one time. A total body mole map does not normally include photographs of the breast, buttock or genital areas unless specifically asked for by your dermatologist.

The specialist who performs this procedure is a qualified and registered medical photographer who abides by the ethical working practices of this profession.