Can I have multiple moles checked in one 30-minute session?

Yes, our 30-minute consultation is designed to be thorough. While we can focus on a single mole that is worrying you, Dr. Ghergus can perform a full-body check to screen all your moles within this time frame.

Does a dermoscopy hurt?

Not at all. A dermatoscope is simply a specialized magnifying lens with a light that is placed near or gently against the skin. It is entirely non-invasive and painless.

What happens if a mole needs to be removed?

If Dr. Ghergus identifies a suspicious mole, he will refer you to one of our on-site consultant plastic surgeons. They will discuss the removal process, which is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic, and the subsequent laboratory testing of the lesion.

How often should I have my moles professionally checked?

For most people, an annual check-up is sufficient. However, if you have a history of skin cancer, a high number of atypical moles, or very fair skin, we may recommend more frequent monitoring.

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Private Mole Assessment and Skin Cancer Screening

Most moles are entirely harmless, but a change in their size, shape, or colour can occasionally be an early warning sign of skin cancer. At Kinvara Private Hospital, we understand that finding a new or evolving lesion can be a source of significant anxiety. Our private mole assessment service is designed to provide rapid, expert clarity in a professional and unhurried environment. Led by Dr. Lucian Ghergus, we offer comprehensive skin checks that move beyond the 'wait and see' approach. By choosing a private consultation, you secure a dedicated 30-minute window for a thorough head-to-toe examination, ensuring that no suspicious spot is overlooked. We combine clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools to provide the peace of mind you deserve.

Medically Reviewed By

Mr Vasu Karri, Medical Director • Updated 2026-01-25

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Early detection is the single most important factor in successfully treating skin malignancies like melanoma. Our mole assessment service focuses on identifying atypical features that may not be visible to the naked eye. We utilise dermoscopy - a non-invasive, high-magnification technique - to visualize the deeper structures of the skin. This allows for a much more accurate differentiation between benign growths, such as seborrhoeic keratoses, and concerning lesions. If a mole is identified as suspicious, we provide a seamless internal pathway to our specialist plastic surgeons for biopsy or excision. Our goal is to ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, a treatment plan that is implemented without delay.

What to Expect During Your Assessment

Your mole assessment begins with a detailed clinical history, where we discuss any specific lesions that have caused you concern. We then perform a thorough skin check. While we can focus on a single 'spot' of concern, we often recommend a full-body examination, as patients frequently overlook lesions on their back or the back of their legs. We provide a private, comfortable setting for this, ensuring you feel at ease throughout the process.

We utilise a handheld dermatoscope, which combines high-intensity light with high-magnification lenses. This tool allows Dr. Ghergus to see the pigment patterns and vascular structures within the mole that are invisible to the naked eye. This increased diagnostic accuracy helps prevent unnecessary surgeries for benign moles while ensuring that truly suspicious lesions are identified early. At the end of the session, you will receive a clear explanation of our findings and, if necessary, a referral for further investigation.

The Science of Skin Screening

To provide an accurate assessment, we use the internationally recognised ABCDE framework to evaluate pigmented lesions. Asymmetry looks at whether one half of the mole matches the other. Border irregularity checks for notched or blurred edges. Colour variation is a key marker, as moles with multiple shades of brown, black, or red require closer inspection. Diameter is monitored, as most melanomas are larger than 6mm, and Evolving is perhaps the most critical factor - any mole that is changing in size or sensation warrants professional review.

We also distinguish between different types of skin cancer during our assessments. Malignant Melanoma is the most serious form, originating in the pigment-producing cells. However, we also screen for non-melanoma skin cancers like Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), which often appears as a pearly, slow-growing bump, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), which can present as a scaly, persistent sore. Understanding these nuances allows Dr. Ghergus to provide a precise risk profile for every lesion examined.

Benefits

30-minute dedicated assessment allowing for a comprehensive head-to-toe skin check
Expert use of dermoscopy for enhanced diagnostic accuracy beyond the naked eye
Rapid peace of mind for changing or 'ugly duckling' lesions
Direct internal pathways to specialist plastic surgeons for biopsy and mole removal
A professional, luxury hospital environment with absolute confidentiality

Risk Factors for Atypical Moles

The primary driver of mole evolution and skin cancer is cumulative exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause uncontrolled growth. Individuals with fair skin, light eyes, and a history of blistering sunburns are at a statistically higher risk. However, genetics also play a major role; if you have a family history of melanoma or have a large number of moles (more than 50), regular professional screening is essential. We use your consultation to map these risk factors and provide bespoke advice on UV protection and self-monitoring techniques.

Pathways to Treatment

Conservative Management

If a mole is found to be clinically benign (harmless), we provide reassurance and guidance on how to monitor it at home using photography. For moles that are not suspicious but are causing physical irritation - such as catching on clothing - we can discuss elective removal for comfort. We also provide education on high-factor SPF use and 'sun-safe' behaviours to prevent future damage.

Surgical Options

If a lesion displays suspicious features, the next step is typically a diagnostic excision or biopsy. At Kinvara, we can rapidly facilitate a referral to our consultant plastic surgeons. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic, where the mole and a small margin of surrounding skin are removed and sent to a laboratory for histopathology. This provides a definitive 100% diagnosis. Should further treatment be required, such as a wider local excision, our surgical team coordinates your care from start to finish.

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