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Mole mapping in Melbourne: a skin cancer doctor’s guide

Mole mapping in Melbourne: a skin cancer doctor’s guide

By Dr Maxton Bergin

Mole mapping is one of the most powerful tools we have for keeping an eye on moles that might one day turn into melanoma, especially in a high‑UV city like Melbourne.1,2 Instead of relying on memory—trying to remember whether a mole looked different last summer—mole mapping uses detailed imaging to create a visual record of your entire skin.3,4 This record can then be compared over time so that even small changes or new spots are much less likely to be missed.3,4

For many people, a routine skin check every year or two is enough.1,5 But if you have a lot of moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, or very fair skin that burns easily, it can quickly become hard to keep track of everything.1,6,7 Mole mapping is designed for exactly these situations. By combining total body photography (sometimes called body mapping) with close‑up images and dermoscopy, it gives your doctor a clearer picture of which moles are stable and which ones are changing in ways that might need closer attention.3,4,8

At Skintel, mole mapping is part of a broader, doctor‑led imaging approach to skin cancer detection. High‑resolution body mapping is used to document your moles from head to toe.9,10 Your doctor then reviews these images alongside dermoscopic examinations of individual lesions and, when clinically appropriate, advanced techniques such as reflectance confocal microscopy.11–13 The aim is not to replace biopsies or standard care, but to use imaging to guide decisions more precisely—so biopsies are done where they are most needed, and harmless moles can be safely monitored.3,4,12

This article explains how mole mapping works in Melbourne, who it’s most useful for, what to expect at a Skintel appointment, and how it fits into long‑term skin cancer prevention and early detection.

What is mole mapping?

Mole mapping is a specialised way of monitoring moles over time using high‑quality images of your skin rather than relying on memory alone.3,4 Instead of looking at each mole in isolation, mole mapping captures a “big picture” view of your entire skin surface and then compares it at follow‑up visits to see how your moles are changing.3,4

Most mole mapping systems use total body photography, sometimes called body mapping, to record the position and appearance of your moles from head to toe.3,8,14 During later appointments, new images are taken and carefully compared with the baseline so that even subtle changes or new spots can be identified early.3,4,8

For high‑risk patients in particular, mole mapping can make it easier to pick up melanoma and other skin cancers at a stage when treatment is simpler and outcomes are better.3,4,15

Why mole mapping matters in Melbourne

Australia has some of the highest rates of melanoma and non‑melanoma skin cancer in the world, largely due to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.1,2 Cancer organisations encourage all Australians to get to know their own skin and to see a doctor promptly if they notice new or changing spots.1,2,5

For people with many moles or a strong personal or family history of melanoma, however, it can be difficult to remember which mole looked how, and when it last changed.6,7,15 In these situations, mole mapping offers a more structured, objective way to monitor moles, using professional photographs and dermoscopy rather than relying purely on self‑checks.3,4,8

Evidence from specialist skin cancer services and systematic reviews suggests that total body photography is particularly helpful in high‑risk patients because it allows clinicians to detect new lesions and monitor existing moles more accurately over time.3,4,14,15 Regular, systematic surveillance has also been supported by Australian general practice guidance for high‑risk individuals.16

How does mole mapping work?

Step 1: Initial assessment and risk review

A mole mapping appointment usually starts with a consultation about your personal risk factors. Your doctor will ask about:

  • Your personal history of melanoma or non‑melanoma skin cancer.6,7

  • Any family history of melanoma.6,7,15

  • The number and type of moles you have (including atypical moles).6,7,15

  • Past sun exposure, sunburns or solarium use.1,2,6

  • Other medical conditions or treatments that may affect your skin, such as immunosuppression.6,7,17

This context helps decide whether mole mapping is appropriate and how often it should be repeated.3,4,16,18

Step 2: Total body photography / body mapping

The next step is total body photography, where high‑resolution images of your entire skin surface are taken in a consistent, standardised way.3,8,14 You’ll usually stand in different positions while a trained imaging clinician captures multiple views (front, back, sides, close‑ups) so that all major areas of skin are documented.9,10,14

Total body photography is used as a tool for early detection of skin cancer, particularly in patients who have numerous or atypical moles or a history of melanoma.3,4,14,15 Photos are stored so they can be used as a reference point during future examinations.3,4,14 Medicare does not currently cover TBP or mole mapping, but national advisory bodies recognise its value in melanoma surveillance for selected patients.14,19

At Skintel, body mapping is performed using high‑resolution total body scans that create a detailed record of your skin and your moles.9,10 These images are securely stored so that they can be compared at follow‑up visits and used alongside dermoscopy and confocal microscopy where clinically indicated. 9–13

Step 3: Dermoscopy and focused imaging

Mole mapping is usually combined with dermoscopy, which is a magnified, polarised light examination of individual moles.8,20 Dermoscopy lets doctors see structures beneath the surface that aren’t visible to the naked eye and improves diagnostic accuracy for melanoma and other skin cancers.20–22

For moles that look unusual or are located in cosmetically sensitive areas, additional close‑up photographs or advanced imaging may be used. In some centres, including Skintel, reflectance confocal microscopy (optical biopsy) may be considered in selected cases to examine skin cells in detail without cutting the skin.11–13 Confocal microscopy is not needed for every mole; it is reserved for situations where it can genuinely improve decision‑making about biopsy or surgery.11–13,23

Step 4: Follow‑up and comparison over time

The real power of mole mapping comes at follow‑up visits. New total body photographs and dermoscopic images are taken and then compared side‑by‑side with your baseline images.3,4,8 This structured comparison helps detect:

  • New moles that have appeared since your last visit.3,4,14

  • Existing moles that have changed in size, shape, colour or pattern.1,2,4

  • Lesions that look different from your other moles (“ugly duckling” moles).1,2,5

Research indicates that total body photography can aid early detection of melanoma, especially in patients with multiple or atypical moles, by helping doctors recognise new lesions and subtle changes earlier.3,4,14,15 When concerning changes are identified, your doctor may recommend dermoscopy‑guided biopsy, additional imaging, or referral to a dermatologist or surgeon.3,4,16,21

At Skintel, these comparisons are assisted by our Canfield Dermagraphix software. The software automatically compares your new total body and dermoscopic images with your baseline images and highlights any new or changing lesions for the clinician to review.9,10 This technology helps identify areas that deserve closer attention, while ensuring every image is still interpreted and contextualised by an experienced medical professional.9,10,11

Who should consider mole mapping?

Mole mapping is not necessary for everyone. Cancer organisations and general practice guidelines recommend self‑examination and regular GP or skin cancer clinic checks for the general population, with closer follow‑up for higher‑risk groups.1,2,5,16 Mole mapping is particularly useful if you fall into one or more of the following categories.

High‑risk individuals

You may be considered high risk and benefit from mole mapping if you have:

  • A personal history of melanoma.6,7,15

  • A strong family history of melanoma, especially in first‑degree relatives.6,7,15

  • Many moles, often more than 50, or large numbers of atypical moles.6,7,15,24

  • Very fair or easily sunburnt skin combined with significant lifetime sun exposure.1,2,6

  • Previous non‑melanoma skin cancers plus multiple pigmented lesions.6,22

  • Medical conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system, such as some blood cancers or immunosuppressive medications.6,17

People who struggle to keep track of their moles

Even if your risk is moderate, mole mapping can be helpful if:

  • You have numerous moles across your back, shoulders or scalp, where self‑checks are difficult.3,4,14

  • You find it hard to remember which mole has changed or where a particular lesion was located.3,4

  • You want a structured, visual record of your skin over time to complement clinical notes.3,4,8

Patients already under specialist care

Dermatologists and skin cancer doctors may recommend mole mapping as part of a broader surveillance plan, particularly for patients already attending regular skin checks.3,4,16,21 In these cases, body mapping and dermoscopy at a dedicated imaging service like Skintel can support long‑term monitoring and decision‑making.9–11

Skintel’s article “Who Should Get Mole Mapping? High‑Risk Groups for Skin Cancer” explains these risk factors in more detail and outlines the groups who are significantly more likely to develop melanoma or other skin cancers.6 It discusses features such as previous skin cancer, strong family history, numerous or atypical moles, fair sun‑sensitive skin, substantial lifetime sun exposure and conditions that weaken the immune system.1,2,6,7,17 If you’re unsure where you fit, reading that article is a helpful way to understand your personal risk and whether mole mapping might be appropriate for you before discussing it with your doctor.6,16

Mole mapping vs a routine skin check

What happens at a routine skin check?

A standard skin check typically involves:

  • A medical history and risk assessment.16

  • A head‑to‑toe examination of your skin, usually with dermoscopy.20,21

  • Identification of lesions that may need biopsy, treatment or monitoring.16,21

For many people, this is appropriate and sufficient, particularly if they have only a few moles and are able to monitor their own skin between visits.1,2,5,16

What extra does mole mapping add?

Mole mapping builds on a routine skin check by adding:

  • Total body photography to document all moles and lesions, not just the ones that look suspicious today.3,4,8,14

  • A structured baseline that can be revisited at each follow‑up appointment.3,4

  • The ability to detect new lesions and subtle changes that may be difficult to notice by memory alone.3,4,14,15

  • A clearer visual record to share with your GP or dermatologist.3,4,16

In other words, mole mapping does not replace clinical judgement but provides a more detailed, objective map to support it.3,4,16

Mole mapping at Skintel in Melbourne

Skintel is a specialist skin imaging service on St Kilda Road in Melbourne, focused on detection and diagnosis rather than surgery.9,10,25 Your mole mapping offering is built around advanced body mapping technology and doctor‑led review.

Key features include:

  • High‑resolution body mapping: Skintel performs a comprehensive total body scan to create a precise, detailed record of your skin, enabling continuous tracking of moles and lesions over time.9,10

  • Doctor‑led dermoscopy: Experienced doctors review lesions using dermoscopy alongside body map images, improving detection of early melanoma and other skin cancers.9,10,21

  • Optical biopsy (confocal microscopy) when needed: For selected lesions, non‑invasive confocal microscopy may be used to examine skin cells at high resolution without cutting the skin, helping to clarify complex cases and reduce unnecessary biopsies.11–13,23

  • Collaborative reporting: Findings and images can be shared with your usual GP, dermatologist or surgeon to guide ongoing management, in line with Australian clinical guidelines.16,22,26

Patients can attend Skintel directly or via referral from their doctor, depending on preference and existing care arrangements.10,27 Skintel’s role is to provide the highest‑quality imaging and diagnostic support; treatment of any confirmed skin cancers is carried out by your treating GP, dermatologist or surgeon.22,26

How often should you have mole mapping?

There is no single schedule that suits everyone. Recommendations depend on your risk level and existing medical care:

  • Very high‑risk patients (such as those with previous melanoma and many atypical moles) may benefit from mole mapping every 6–12 months, alongside regular clinical skin checks.3,4,14,16,18

  • High‑risk patients (e.g. >50 moles, strong family history) may be monitored with mole mapping every 1–2 years, plus annual skin checks.6,7,16,18

  • Moderate‑risk individuals may use mole mapping as a baseline, with skin checks at intervals agreed with their doctor.16,18

  • Low‑risk people may not need mole mapping at all and can focus on self‑checks and periodic GP or clinic skin checks.1,2,5,16

Australian general practice guidance notes that systematic annual skin checks are feasible and effective in high‑risk patients, with less frequent checks for those at lower risk.16 Cancer organisations suggest that self‑examination plus professional review at intervals decided with your doctor is a safe approach.1,2,5

At Skintel, mole mapping frequency is tailored after a medical assessment. The imaging plan is usually developed in partnership with your GP or dermatologist, so that it fits neatly into your broader care.9,10,16

Preparing for a mole mapping appointment

To get the most accurate images, most clinics recommend:

  • Avoiding fake tan and heavy self‑tanners for 2–4 weeks before your session.14,18,28

  • Arriving with clean, product‑free skin (no make‑up, moisturiser or heavy creams on the day).14,18

  • Removing nail polish so that lesions on the nail beds can be examined.18,28

  • Wearing comfortable underwear you are happy to be photographed in; a gown or drape is usually provided.14,18,28

  • Doing a quick self‑check beforehand and noting any new or worrying spots to discuss with the imaging team.1,2,5

Skintel’s Body Map service page provides practical details on what to expect and how to prepare.9,10

Common questions about mole mapping

1. Is mole mapping painful?

No. Mole mapping is a non‑invasive process. Total body photographs and dermoscopic images are taken from outside the body and do not involve needles, cutting or surgery.3,4,8 Some patients feel slightly self‑conscious during the imaging session, but the procedure itself is painless.3,4

2. Does mole mapping replace a skin biopsy?

No. Mole mapping helps identify which moles are changing and which lesions are new or suspicious, but if a lesion looks concerning, a traditional biopsy is still needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.3,4,16,22 Mole mapping aims to direct biopsies more intelligently, not to replace them.3,4

3. Is mole mapping the same as a skin check?

A skin check is a clinical examination; mole mapping adds a photographic record and structured comparison over time.3,4,8,16 Many high‑risk patients have both: regular skin checks with their GP or dermatologist, supported by periodic mole mapping at a specialised imaging centre.3,4,14,16

4. Who shouldn’t bother with mole mapping?

People with only a few stable moles and low overall risk often gain little from mole mapping and can focus on self‑checks and routine medical examinations.1,2,5,16 The decision is best made with your doctor, based on your personal history and preferences.16,18

5. Is mole mapping covered by Medicare?

At present, total body photography and mole mapping are not typically covered by Medicare in Australia, although advisory bodies acknowledge their usefulness for melanoma surveillance in high‑risk patients.14,19 Some private insurers may offer limited support in specific circumstances; it is best to ask about fees and rebates when you book.18,28

6. Can mole mapping stop me from getting melanoma?

No technique can completely prevent melanoma. Mole mapping does not change your underlying risk, but it can help detect melanoma earlier by making new or changing lesions easier to recognise.3,4,14,15 Sun protection, self‑checks and prompt medical review of worrying spots remain essential.1,2,5,29

7. Is mole mapping suitable for children?

In selected cases—such as children with genetic syndromes or very high risk—specialist teams may use total body photography, but this is usually arranged through a dermatologist or paediatric specialist.3,4,16 For most children, good sun protection and regular medical review are more important than routine mole mapping.1,2,5

8. How long does a mole mapping session take?

Most total body photography sessions take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the clinic’s protocol and the number of images required.3,4,8 At Skintel, mole mapping is integrated with other imaging and may be tailored to your risk level and the complexity of your skin.9,10

Conclusion: is mole mapping right for you?

Mole mapping is a powerful tool for monitoring moles over time, particularly for people at higher risk of melanoma who have many or atypical moles.3,4,14,16 By combining total body photography, dermoscopy and, where appropriate, advanced imaging such as confocal microscopy, it creates a detailed map of your skin that can be revisited at each follow‑up visit.3,4,9–13

If you have a history of melanoma, numerous moles or a strong family history—and you live in a high‑UV environment like Melbourne—it may be worth discussing mole mapping with your GP, dermatologist or skin cancer doctor.1,2,6,7,16 Skintel’s role is to provide specialist imaging and diagnostic support as part of that conversation, working alongside your usual treating team to help detect skin cancers as early and accurately as possible.9,10,22,26

Rather than trying to self‑diagnose, the safest step is to book a professional assessment. If you’re unsure whether mole mapping is appropriate for you, you can contact Skintel to discuss your risk factors, or ask your doctor to consider a referral so that any decision is made with your full medical context in mind.10,18,27

Disclaimer

All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.

References

  1. Cancer Council NSW. Checking for skin cancer. Sydney: Cancer Council NSW; 2025.

  2. Cancer Council Australia. Skin cancers. Sydney: Cancer Council Australia; 2026.

  3. Tzellos T, Kyrgidis A, Zouboulis CC. The value of total body photography for the early detection of melanoma: a systematic review. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2021;35(2):230‑237.

  4. Watts CG, Dieng M, Kasparian NA, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of melanoma in Australia and New Zealand: surveillance in high‑risk patients. Med J Aust. 2015;202(10):472‑477.

  5. Cancer Council NSW. Reduce your risk – detect skin cancer early. Sydney: Cancer Council NSW; 2024.

  6. Skintel. Who should get mole mapping? High‑risk groups for skin cancer. Melbourne: Skintel; 2025.

  7. Gandini S, Sera F, Cattaruzza MS, et al. Meta‑analysis of risk factors for cutaneous melanoma: II. Family history, actinic damage and phenotypic factors. Eur J Cancer. 2005;41(14):2040‑2059.

  8. Bassett K, et al. Total body photography for skin cancer screening in high‑risk patients: a practical overview. Australas J Dermatol. 2019;60(3):e186‑e192.

  9. Skintel. Body Map – skin health and skin cancer detection. Melbourne: Skintel; 2025.

  10. Skintel. Our services – skin health and skin cancer detection. Melbourne: Skintel; 2026.

  11. Longo C, Ragazzi M, Rajadhyaksha M, et al. Reflectance confocal microscopy: an effective tool for diagnosing melanoma and non‑melanoma skin cancers. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018;79(2):247‑257.

  12. Guitera P, Menzies SW. Confocal microscopy and dermoscopy for melanoma diagnosis. Dermatol Clin. 2013;31(4):615‑628.

  13. Guitera P, Moloney FJ, Menzies SW, et al. Diagnostic accuracy of reflectance confocal microscopy for melanocytic lesions: a systematic review. Br J Dermatol. 2012;167(3):454‑463.

  14. Australian Government Department of Health. Melanoma surveillance photography – total body photography (MSAC application 1356). Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia; 2024.

  15. Haenssle HA, Korpas B, Hansen‑Hagge C, et al. Total body mapping in patients with multiple nevi: a retrospective evaluation of 2D photographic documentation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006;54(5):806‑813.

  16. Walker J, Sinclair R. Skin checks. Aust Fam Physician. 2012;41(7):460‑464.

  17. Olsen CM, Green AC, Pandeya N, et al. Risk of melanoma in patients with immunosuppression: a meta‑analysis. Br J Dermatol. 2015;173(4):843‑850.

  18. Bass Coast Skin Doctors. Mole mapping: what to ask your skin doctor before a mole mapping session. Wonthaggi: Bass Coast Skin Doctors; 2024.

  19. National Health and Medical Research Council. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of melanoma in Australia. Canberra: NHMRC; 2015.

  20. Kittler H, Pehamberger H, Wolff K, Binder M. Diagnostic accuracy of dermoscopy. Lancet Oncol. 2002;3(3):159‑165.

  21. Menzies SW, Emery J, Staples M, et al. Impact of dermoscopy on the clinical diagnosis of melanoma in primary care: results of a randomised trial. BMJ. 2009;339:b3112.

  22. Cancer Council Victoria. Non‑melanoma skin cancer (BCC & SCC) – overview. Melbourne: Cancer Council Victoria; 2018.

  23. Soyer HP, et al. Reflectance confocal microscopy in the diagnosis of nodular skin lesions. Br J Dermatol. 2013;169(1):58‑66.

  24. Bataille V, de Vijver MJ. Risk stratification for melanoma: more than just counting nevi. J Invest Dermatol. 2017;137(6):1287‑1289.

  25. Skintel. About us – skin imaging service. Melbourne: Skintel; 2024.

  26. Cancer Council Australia. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of melanoma. Sydney: Cancer Council Australia; 2019.

  27. Skintel. Referrals – skin cancer checks and confocal microscopy. Melbourne: Skintel; 2025.

  28. Dermascan. Mole mapping & full‑body scans in Melbourne. Melbourne: Dermascan; 2024.

  29. Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA). Ultraviolet radiation and sun protection. Canberra: ARPANSA; 2023.