Full body Skin Cancer Screening and Mole Checks in Romsey

Assessment of moles and skin lesions by a specialist doctor

Changes in the skin as we age are common, but occasionally they may indicate skin cancer. Early assessment allows reassurance in most cases and timely treatment when needed.

Skin cancer screening and mole checks at Romsey Medical Practice are performed by Dr Ed Gibbons, who is experienced in assessing pigmented and non-pigmented lesions.

For general skin concerns, please see our Dermatology Services

Signs a mole should be assessed

Arrange an appointment if you notice:

  • a new mole appearing in adulthood
  • change in the size, shape or colour of a mole
  • A mole which appears irregular or with uneven borders
  • A mole comprising multiple colours within a lesion
  • itching, bleeding or crusting
  • a sore that does not heal
  • a rapidly growing lump

If you are unsure, it is appropriate to have it examined.

Your skin examination

The consultation includes:

  • A history of the mole(s), the changes or concerns
  • A risk assessment for skin cancer
  • An assessment of relevant medical history, including medication use
  • visual examination of the lesion
  • Dermatoscope assessment (magnified skin examination)
  • Explanation of findings, including patient information leaflets where relevant.
  • Advice or treatment plan

You may be asked about sun exposure, previous skin cancers and family history.

Skin Cancer

What happens next

After examination, lesions are usually:

Benign
No treatment required; monitoring advised however, removal can be arranged if appropriate.

Suspicious or confirmed skin cancer
If removal is required this can often be arranged through our minor dermatological surgery service. However, in some cases, referral to an appropriate specialist service may be recommended to ensure the safest treatment.

All removed lesions are sent for laboratory analysis when indicated.

Conditions assessed

Screening looks for features of:

  • melanoma
  • basal cell carcinoma
  • squamous cell carcinoma

precancerous sun damage

Ongoing monitoring of moles

Some moles are best observed over time.
We may recommend follow-up examinations to check for change.

Patients at higher risk may benefit from periodic skin checks.

When urgent care is needed

Seek urgent medical advice if a lesion:

  • bleeds repeatedly
  • grows rapidly over weeks

becomes painful or ulcerated

Book a mole check

If you are worried about a skin lesion, it is always appropriate to have it assessed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before booking

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral is required. You can book directly with the clinic for assessment of a mole or skin lesion.

Many skin changes are harmless, but a new or changing lesion should be assessed promptly. If a mole is rapidly growing, bleeding, crusting or painful, please inform reception so an earlier appointment can be arranged.

Rather than relying on a fixed schedule, you should seek review if you notice a change in a mole, a new lesion in adulthood, or a area of skin that does not heal.

Yes. Most childhood moles are benign, but assessment can be reassuring and allows advice on monitoring.

Yes. Benign lesions such as skin tags, cysts and other lumps can be assessed and management options discussed if appropriate.

The appointment

How long does the appointment take?

Appointments are usually around 30 minutes for a mole check, and between 45 and 60 minutes for a full body skin check depending on the number of lesions being examined and whether photographs, mapping or further discussion are required.

Yes, but please inform reception when booking so sufficient time can be allocated.

It can help to remove makeup, nail varnish or creams from the area being examined. Please be aware of needing to undress for the appointment. We usually recommend photography for monitoring purposes. If you would like a chaperone for your appointment please let us know at the time of booking.

No. Examination is non-invasive and performed using magnified visual assessment.

Diagnosis

Can you tell immediately if a mole is cancer?

Many lesions can be identified as benign at the appointment. Some require removal and laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.

In some cases monitoring is safer and more appropriate than removing multiple lesions. Your doctor will advise which lesions, if any, require treatment.

Removal and testing

Will the mole be removed on the same day?

In the majority of cases surgical treatment of moles will require a separate surgical appointment.

If a lesion is removed for medical reasons it is sent for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis. For clearly benign lesions, then histopathology is not required. If there is any diagnostic doubt then laboratory analysis will be recommended.

No. Removing a suspicious lesion is a standard and safe part of diagnosing and treating skin cancer.

Local anaesthetic is used so the area is numb during removal and there can be an initial momentary stinging sensation. Mild soreness afterwards is normal for a few days.

Any procedure that removes skin leaves a scar. The aim is to minimise this while ensuring safe treatment. The final appearance depends on the location and individual healing.

After the procedure

Can I go back to work afterwards?

Most people return to normal activities the following day unless a larger procedure has been performed.

The area should be protected while healing to reduce irritation and changes in pigmentation.

Laboratory results usually return within 1-2 weeks. You will be contacted once they have been reviewed by the doctor.