How to prepare for and what to expect from mole mapping service … Protect your skin and health
At DRS Skincare Hamilton, ON
| Treatment | Full Body Mole Mapping |
| Indications | Proactive skin health |
| Treatment Recovery | none |
| # Of Treatments Required | Every 6 to 12 months |
| Best Results Seen |
*estimate of sessions to be determined in consultation
At DRS Skincare, we want to keep your skin healthy and looking radiant! One of the ways our team in Hamilton, Ontario, accomplishes this is with proactive services that protect the skin from damage. We prioritize this approach over reactive services that must play “catch-up” after the damage has already occurred to treat the underlying source or cause of the skin concern. Mole mapping fits in well with our range of preventative-minded services. Our Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Rahul Shukla, has invested in the advanced FotoFinder® technology to support this process of proactively detecting skin cancers.
What is FotoFinder®? – Zooming in on FotoFinder®
This system is characterized as a blend of “dermoscopy” and “total body mapping. “Dermoscopy refers to using a device to examine the skin’s surface. It is associated with regular, professional skin checks at dermatologists’ offices. The device or dermatoscope helps better see suspicious or anomalous areas during these checks, which complements the regular skin evaluation at home.
As the name suggests, total body mapping involves the collection and analysis of images of the different parts of the body. That way, most or all the skin is captured consistently and reproducibly.
As an innovative form of “Total Body Dermoscopy, “FotoFinder® skin imaging or full-body photography can typically be completed within 30 minutes. Furthermore, due to unique image processing and camera system capabilities, our specialists collect and evaluate images that are of spectacular quality. This feature aids in our ability to make an accurate diagnosis, informing the most prompt and effective treatment or interventions.
Protect Your Skin with Advanced Mole Mapping
Mole Mapping typically involves taking your clothes off. Don’t mind the onesie here and having your moles checked from head to toe to ensure there’s no suspicious change. FotoFinder, pictured here, is an advanced photo camera system that takes pictures of your moles, saves them, and compares them to a previous data set of your moles. It’s able to potentially identify changes in your moles before the human eye, allowing your dermatologist to remove a suspicious mole early, potentially saving your life. It is safe and non-invasive, and the technology is improving over time, giving us better results. It’s a great strategy to promote optimal skin health, and it’s particularly useful for someone who’s worried about their moles. If you have questions about this, please contact us.
The process is painless and non-invasive. Any images collected are securely stored and displayed. Images may be reviewed in a way that allows for accurate and efficient comparison of moles to the appearance of other lesions captured simultaneously. The position of each lesion can be quickly identified and marked for further examination as needed. Such capabilities promote ongoing monitoring and tracking of potential skin changes that may require intervention.
In general, FotoFinder®-assisted “mole mapping” is:
- Gentle
- Non-invasive
- Safe
- Empowers the patient with clear, shareable information
- Precise
- Allows for accurate diagnoses and treatment
- Encrypted; data is protected
What preparation is involved?
Preparation is minimal and generally supports our team’s ability to properly “see” any anomalies in your skin. We generally advise that you do not wear makeup to your appointment. This includes foundation, lipstick, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and nail polish. To ensure the most accurate examination findings, do not wear socks or sandals that are black in colour. These clothing options can leave behind stains or lint on the skin, which may be mistaken for moles or lesions. Body hair can make it difficult for us to see all of the moles. So, it is advised to shave. Also, leave the perfume, jewelry, and heavy undergarments at home. Instead, opt for scrunchies or other bands to tie back your hair and lightweight garments (bra/underwear) to support our ability to see the skin and diagnose accurately. If you use sunless tanners, refrain from applying for six weeks prior to your appointment. Here again, the discolouration can interfere with our ability to pinpoint spots that warrant further investigation.
What should I expect from the process?
Mole mapping is a strategy to proactively identify concerning moles as early as possible. Although the human eye and clinical examination by a dermatologist are excellent for identifying changes, mole mapping utilizes specialized computer technology to recognize concerning changes that the human eye cannot detect and serves to further improve mole mapping and, ultimately, save lives.
Utilizing the most current version of the FotoFinder® system, a computer securely captures moles on different parts of the body. After determining an appropriate follow-up interval, pictures are again captured by the FotoFinder® system in conjunction with our clinical team, and changes in moles are identified. If these changes are deemed concerning, biopsies and excision will soon follow.
Our goal is to identify concerning changes in your skin as soon as possible, allowing you to address concerns as quickly as possible and hopefully before any long-term consequences arise.
Although—at present—there is no perfect system to proactively identify concerning skin changes, we believe photoprotection with sunscreen, topical vitamin C application, and avoiding excessive sun exposure, in combination with skin checks with both a dermatologist and FotoFinder®, can further enhance one’s ability to improve skin health proactively.
Currently, mole mapping with FotoFinder® is not covered by the government and OHIP.
Why is mole mapping so important?
Not unlike other cancers, skin cancer is often highly treatable when caught in its early stages. Patients with lots of moles (think 50 or more) are at greater risk of developing melanoma, the most severe type of skin cancer. Furthermore, melanomas are often mistaken for benign moles or other harmful spots, such as freckles. Our expertise in mapping or evaluating moles and other spots, as well as our use of advanced diagnostic tools such as FotoFinder®, allows us to visualize potential areas of concern clearly.
Early detection furthermore supports prompt treatment, and it is not an overstatement to say such services and technologies can save lives. If you are due for a professional screening, call our Hamilton, ON office at (905) 524-1712 today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is Mole Mapping and Why It Matters
Mole Mapping is a specialized skin screening service that creates a photographic record of your moles to monitor changes over time. This process helps detect early warning signs of skin cancer, including melanoma, at the earliest possible stage. By comparing current images with past records, dermatologists can identify even subtle changes. Mole Mapping is especially important for those with many moles, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer. Schedule Mole Mapping in Hamilton today by calling (905) 524-1712.
Fotofinder Mole Mapping: How It Works
At DRS Skincare in Hamilton, Ontario, Fotofinder Mole Mapping technology uses advanced imaging to capture high-resolution photographs of your skin. These images are stored securely and serve as a baseline for future comparisons. Each follow-up appointment allows your provider to track changes in the size, color, or shape of your moles. This systematic approach is more reliable than self-checks and ensures nothing goes unnoticed. Book your Fotofinder Mole Mapping in Hamilton by contacting (905) 524-1712.
Is Mole Mapping Covered by OHIP?
Currently, Mole Mapping is considered a preventive service and is not covered by OHIP. Patients are responsible for the cost of the procedure. While OHIP covers dermatologist assessments for suspicious lesions, full-body Mole Mapping is seen as an elective service. However, many patients view this investment as invaluable for peace of mind and early detection. To learn more about pricing or to schedule Mole Mapping in Hamilton, call (905) 524-1712.
Who Should Consider Mole Mapping in Hamilton?
Anyone with a higher-than-average risk of skin cancer should consider Mole Mapping. This includes individuals with numerous moles, atypical moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, or fair skin that burns easily. Mole Mapping is also ideal for patients who have difficulty keeping track of their moles. If you fall into these categories, scheduling Mole Mapping at DRS Skincare in Hamilton can provide reassurance and proactive protection.
How Often Should I Schedule Mole Mapping Appointments?
For most patients, Mole Mapping should be repeated once a year. However, if you have a history of skin cancer or your dermatologist notices concerning moles, visits may be scheduled more frequently. Annual Mole Mapping ensures changes are detected early, when treatment is most effective. Stay on top of your skin health and call (905) 524-1712 to book your Mole Mapping in Hamilton.
Does Mole Mapping Replace Skin Exams?
Mole Mapping is a powerful tool, but it does not replace in-person skin exams. Instead, it complements them by providing detailed images for comparison. Dermatologists at DRS Skincare in Hamilton use both visual examinations and Mole Mapping to provide the most thorough assessment. Together, these approaches give patients the best chance of early detection and peace of mind.
What Are the Benefits of Mole Mapping Compared to Self-Checks?
While monthly self-checks are encouraged, Mole Mapping adds a professional, technology-assisted layer of accuracy. High-resolution images detect changes too subtle for the human eye. Patients who rely only on self-checks may miss important warning signs. With Mole Mapping at DRS Skincare in Hamilton, you receive expert oversight that increases the likelihood of catching melanoma early.
Is Mole Mapping Safe and Comfortable?
Yes. Mole Mapping is completely safe and non-invasive. The Fotofinder system takes photographs of your skin without radiation, discomfort, or downtime. Patients simply stand while the images are taken, and the process usually takes less than an hour. If you want a safe, painless way to monitor your skin, schedule Mole Mapping in Hamilton by calling (905) 524-1712.
How Does Mole Mapping Help Prevent Melanoma?
While Mole Mapping itself does not prevent melanoma, it helps identify it at the earliest stage when treatment is most successful. By recording your moles and monitoring changes, Mole Mapping ensures that no potential warning sign goes unnoticed. This proactive step gives you and your dermatologist the best chance to act quickly if something suspicious arises. Protect your future; book your Mole Mapping in Hamilton today.
Can Children or Young Adults Benefit from Mole Mapping?
Yes. Mole Mapping is beneficial for patients of all ages, especially those with risk factors like a family history of melanoma. Detecting changes early in younger patients can be lifesaving, as melanoma can develop at any age. If your child or teen has multiple moles or risk factors, DRS Skincare in Hamilton may recommend Mole Mapping as part of their preventive care. Call (905) 524-1712 to discuss options for your family.
