Here at Dr. Sylvia - The Skin GP, we offer thorough mole checks and examine new or unusual skin changes, marks, or growths.
We identify early signs of skin cancer and offer treatment for suitable low-risk lesions.
You may benefit from a full body skin check if you have any of the following:
- Lots of moles or freckles
- Fair skin or skin that burns easily
- A history of sunburn (especially repeated or severe sunburn)
- Previous sunbed use
- Outdoor occupation or regular outdoor hobbies
- Living for a prolonged period in a hotter or sunnier country
- A family history of skin cancer
- Previous skin cancer
- A suppressed immune system
- A new persisting spot or patch on the skin
- Any mole that has changed
- Any skin lesion or mole that looks different from the others
What are we looking for in your appointment?
We complete a full body skin assessment to check for signs of melanoma and other non-melanoma skin cancers, sun damage and pre-cancer.
We diagnose both Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma and then treat lesions in clinic where they are low risk.
We diagnose melanoma and arrange onward referral to a consultant dermatologist for further assessment and treatment, ensuring the whole process is as swift and efficient as possible for you.
Preparing for your appointment
Before attending for your full body skin assessment, we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing and shoes, as you may be asked to change into a gown. Where applicable, please remove nail varnish, false tan, and makeup prior to your appointment.
We encourage you to make a note of any moles or marks you would like assessed in particular, including when you first noticed them or if you have observed any changes over time. Early detection is important, as identifying concerning skin changes early can help prevent progression. New or changing marks, especially those that are broken, itchy, or bleeding, are always worth having checked.
As part of mole checks and skin assessments, Dr. Sylvia uses dermoscopy (a specialised handheld magnifying device with light) to examine skin lesions in greater detail. Dermoscopy allows features beneath the surface of the skin to be visualised, helping to distinguish between benign and suspicious lesions and to guide decisions about monitoring, biopsy, or referral where appropriate.
Dr. Sylvia specialises in the detection and assessment of melanoma and high-risk skin lesions. She does not provide treatment for melanoma or high-risk skin cancers. Where treatment is required, patients are referred to a consultant dermatologist or other appropriate consultant specialist in line with national guidelines.
Dr. Sylvia also supports patients in understanding what to look for when monitoring their skin and provides guidance on ongoing skin surveillance. Patients are encouraged to contact the clinic with any concerns between screening appointments.
