Mole Check & Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand, and early detection makes all the difference. At CityMed, we provide comprehensive mole checks and skin cancer screening in Auckland, helping you catch changes early and treat them effectively.

Our team of experienced doctors uses advanced dermoscopy and magnification tools to assess moles and skin lesions in detail. Whether it’s a new spot, a mole that’s changed, or a routine check-up, we make the process comfortable, quick, and reliable. Mole Check Picture

Why Regular Mole Checks Are So Important

New Zealand has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world, mainly due to strong UV exposure and fair skin types.
A regular mole check allows early detection — before any cancer has a chance to spread.

• You should book a professional mole check if:
• You have many moles, especially irregular or “dysplastic” ones
• You’ve had sunburns, particularly during childhood or adolescence
• You spend a lot of time outdoors for work or sport
• You’ve had previous skin cancer diagnosed or have a family history of melanoma
• You notice a new or changing spot on your skin

Early detection saves lives — it’s as simple as that.

What Happens During a Mole Check at CityMed

Your mole check is a simple, non-invasive appointment that usually takes 20–30 minutes.

1. Consultation – Your doctor discusses your skin history, sun exposure, and any lesions that concern you.
2. Full-body Examination – We examine your skin from head to toe, including scalp, back, and feet.
3. Dermoscopy – Using a special magnifying light, we look beneath the skin surface to identify early changes invisible to the naked eye.
4. Diagnosis & Recommendations – You’ll receive immediate feedback. If a suspicious lesion is found, we discuss biopsy or monitoring options.
5. Follow-up – If needed, we schedule digital imaging or rechecks to monitor changes over time.

Tip: Wear loose clothing and avoid fake tan or heavy moisturizers on the day of your appointment.

Mole Check vs Mole Mapping

You may have heard of mole mapping — a process that photographs and digitally tracks all your moles for long-term comparison.

At CityMed, we focus on detailed clinical mole checks, which allow us to detect any concerning spots on the day, and if needed, we can refer for digital mapping for ongoing monitoring

If you’re at high risk or have many moles, we recommend combining both methods for ongoing monitoring.

Common Signs of a Suspicious Mole (ABCDE Guide)

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time for a professional check:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
• B – Border: Edges are irregular or blurred
• C – Colour: Uneven shades of brown, red, or black
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm
• E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or behavior (itching, bleeding, crusting)

Even if you’re unsure, book a mole check — many skin cancers start from normal-looking skin.

Treatment Options at CityMed

If a suspicious mole or lesion is found, our doctors can:

• Perform a minor surgical excision under local anesthetic — the gold standard for most skin cancers
• Use cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) for warts or sun-damaged skin
• Prescribe topical creams for certain early or superficial skin cancers

We have two purpose-built procedure theatres on site for convenient same-day treatments.

Skin Cancer Risk Factors

You’re at greater risk if you have:

• Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
• A history of sunburns
• A large number of moles (more than 100 moles)
• Outdoor lifestyle (gardening, sports, construction, etc.)
• Older age with a history of skin cancer or family history of melanoma

Even if you don’t meet these risk factors, regular checks are recommended — no one is risk-free under New Zealand’s strong UV rays.

After Your Mole Check

If your results are normal, your doctor will recommend when your next check should be — typically every 12 months for most people, or every 6 months if you’re high-risk.

If we identify a lesion that needs further assessment, we’ll:

• Arrange a biopsy or excision of the lesion of concern
• Provide a full pathology report
• Recommend follow-up or referral to a dermatologist if needed

We also encourage you to perform regular self-checks at home between visits.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

• Remove makeup, sunscreen, and nail polish
• Avoid fake tan or tinted moisturizers
• Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing
• Bring photos of any changing spots, if available
• Let us know if you prefer a same-gender doctor for comfort

FAQs

How long does a mole check take?
Usually about 20–30 minutes, depending on the number of moles.

Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly with CityMed for a mole or skin check.

Is it painful?
No. The exam is non-invasive. Only biopsies involve a small local anesthetic.

How often should I have a mole check?
At least once a year, or every 6 months if you’re high-risk or have many moles.

What if a mole needs to be removed?
We can perform the excision in our on-site procedure rooms under local anesthetic.

 

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09 377 5525