What is Mole Mapping? Costs, Process, and Where to Find Clinics

Mole mapping is a cutting-edge dermatology service designed to help monitor and document moles for early detection of skin cancer and other skin abnormalities. In this guide, we’ll explore what mole mapping involves, the costs, duration of a mole mapping session, how it works, and where you can find reputable dermatology clinics for mole mapping in the UK.

What is Mole Mapping?

Mole mapping involves capturing high-resolution images of your skin to track and document the appearance of moles over time. The images are stored and compared to proactively detect changes in moles that could indicate skin cancer or other skin health issues. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with a high number of moles or a history of skin cancer.

How Does Mole Mapping Work?

During a mole mapping session:

• High-resolution photographs are taken of your entire body.
• Each mole is analysed to record its size, shape, color, and location.
• Advanced tools, such as dermatoscopes or AI imaging, may be used to assess moles in detail.
• The images are securely stored for future comparisons during follow-up mole mapping sessions.

Some clinics now integrate AI technology and advanced imaging to automatically detect changes in moles after images are taken, for example, matching against the ABCDE list of melanoma symptoms. These recent advances have allowed for an additional layer of precision in mole monitoring.

How Long Does Mole Mapping Take?

A typical mole mapping session lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of moles and the tools used. The advanced imaging systems and AI technologies now used by some clinics can speed up the process.

How Often is Mole Mapping Recommended?

Dermatology clinics typically recommend repeating mole mapping every 1-2 years after the initial session. However, the recommended frequency of mole mapping sessions can vary depending on individual risk factors:

• High-Risk Individuals: People with a family history of melanoma or those with many moles may need annual or even more frequent mole mapping.
• Moderate-Risk Individuals: Individuals with a fair complexion, a history of severe sunburns, or a large number of moles may benefit from mole mapping every 1-2 years.
• Low-Risk Individuals: People with few moles and no significant risk factors may opt for mole mapping every 3-5 years.

How Much Does Mole Mapping Cost in the UK?

Mole mapping costs can vary depending on the clinic and region. However, typical costs are as follows:

• Private Clinics: £150–£400 per session, with greater costs in London and lesser costs in smaller regional cities and towns.
• NHS Availability: Mole mapping is rarely offered by the NHS, unless medically necessary.

Where Can I Get Mole Mapping Done in the UK?

Mole mapping is widely available at private dermatology clinics and skin centers in the UK. If you're interested in finding a dermatologist near you for mole mapping, you can try our Dermatologist Search Tool. If you're unsure about a specific mole, our AI Dermatology Tool can be used to help investigate.

Why is Mole Mapping Important?

Mole mapping can be used to precisely detect changes in moles and identify new moles, which may otherwise go unnoticed. Proactive monitoring of the skin is crucial for early detection of skin cancers, which can save lives. This is evident in the SEER database (used by the American Cancer Society), which shows that the 5-year survival rate of localised skin cancer is 99%, but the survival rate reduces to 74% if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes before detection and 35% if it has spread to more distant parts of the body.

Regular sessions of mole mapping can help dermatologists catch potential issues before they become more serious or spread and can also provide peace of mind.

Next Steps: Check Your Moles Today!

Monitoring your moles is essential for the early detection of skin cancer. Here are three steps to help you stay proactive:

• Regularly Check Your Moles: Regularly examine moles for changes and check for new moles. The NHS offers a helpful guide on identifying signs of skin cancer.
• Use Technology: Tools like our AI Skin Checker can assist you in monitoring moles. However, it's important to remember that AI is not always accurate, and it’s vital to have any suspicious moles evaluated by a professional dermatologist.
• Consult a Professional: If you’re considering mole mapping or need a mole inspection, use our free Dermatologist Search Tool to find trusted, GMC-registered dermatologists near you.