Close-up of moles on a patient's shoulder and upper back

Mole mapping

Why should I have my moles mapped?

The stage at which melanoma is found is the single greatest determinant of how it can be treated. Caught early, while it remains confined to the skin, melanoma is highly curable. Once it has spread to deeper tissue or to distant sites, it becomes considerably more difficult to treat and far more serious. Early detection is key.

This is the purpose of mole mapping. By creating a detailed, longitudinal record of your skin, it allows your dermatologist to compare images precisely over time and identify the subtle changes that signal a developing problem long before they would be visible to the untrained eye. A new lesion, or an existing mole that has begun to evolve, can be acted upon at the earliest and most treatable stage. For anyone with numerous moles, a family history of skin cancer, or significant sun exposure, that capacity to detect change with precision is among the most valuable safeguards available.

Your mole mapping journey

The journey will depend on the origin of your referral.

If your consultant carries out an initial consultation and recommends mole mapping the journey is as follows:

  1. Your dermatologist will send a referral to arrange an appointment for your mole mapping consultation.
  2. Full-body digital imaging: your skin is mapped using high-resolution digital imaging. The digital mapping process takes approximately half an hour.
  3. Follow-up and results: your mole mapping report is sent back to your referring dermatologist to review the results and any lesions requiring further evaluation.
  4. Ongoing surveillance: follow-up appointments are typically recommended annually, allowing your entire mole population to be compared against your baseline record.

If you self-refer for mole mapping the journey is as follows:

  1. Full-body digital imaging: our team will book you in for your mole mapping using high-resolution digital imaging. The digital mapping process takes approximately half an hour.
  2. Follow-up and results: a consultant dermatologist carries out a full body skin examination, reviews your images with you and treatment is available at Surgical Institute Dublin for any lesion of concern the same day where appropriate. A copy of your report is sent to your GP.

Ongoing surveillance: follow-up appointments are typically recommended annually, allowing your entire mole population to be compared against your baseline record.

Treatment where indicated: if a lesion is assessed as suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend surgical removal, carried out by experienced skin cancer specialists with careful attention to both clinical outcome and cosmetic result.

Pricing

Mole mapping is available on a self-pay basis, with no referral needed. You’ll know the full cost before your appointment.

ServicePrice
Mole mapping, referred by a consultant dermatologist (report sent back to them for review)€350
Mole mapping plus a full body skin examination by a consultant dermatologist (self-referral or GP referral)€550

What’s included

  • Full-body imaging with our clinical nurse specialist, plus a full body skin examination by a consultant dermatologist if you refer yourself or are referred by your GP
  • A baseline record of your moles, stored securely for comparison at future visits
  • A written report sent back to your referring consultant dermatologist for review, or to your GP

Booking and cancellation

A €50 deposit secures your appointment and is deducted from your final fee. If you need to cancel or rearrange, please let us know at least 48 hours before your appointment and your deposit will be refunded.

Health insurance

Mole mapping is not routinely covered by health insurance. Some plans offer partial cover or outpatient benefits, so check with your insurer before booking.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of full body mole mapping?

Full body mole mapping provides a detailed, longitudinal record of your entire mole population, allowing even the subtlest changes to be detected at follow-up appointments. It offers peace of mind that any developing skin cancers will be caught early, before they develop into something more serious.

When should I get my moles checked?

It is possible to develop skin cancer at any time during your life, particularly if you are considered high risk (e.g. fair skin, family history, history of sunburn or sun-bed use). We strongly recommend mole checks for those who are high risk due to past sun exposure, have a high number of moles and moles that are varied in shape, size and colour (dysplastic naevus syndrome), and for anyone with concerns about changes to their moles.

How often should I have a mole map?

We recommend returning annually to have your moles monitored.

What is a cancerous mole?

Most moles remain perfectly fine throughout a lifetime, but if you notice signs that a mole has changed in shape, size or colour, it is wise to have it checked by a dermatologist. Moles can also be precancerous lesions (melanoma in situ) — changes that are not yet cancer but could become cancer over time. Skin cancer can be cured if found and treated early.

What should I do if I have a bleeding or itchy mole?

Bleeding or itchy moles can occur when they have been irritated or scratched. However, these can also be signs of skin cancer. If you have a new mole or notice changes such as bleeding, changes in shape, size or colour, or itchiness, seek medical advice at the earliest possible stage. An early diagnosis is crucial.

Is mole mapping effective?

Mole mapping is the most comprehensive safeguard against melanoma skin cancer and is recommended for anyone worried about their moles. Early detection saves lives, and mole mapping is the best available tool for supporting the detection process.

Who should get mole mapping?

Anyone with concerns about their moles, those with fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, a history of significant sun exposure including an outdoor occupation, prior sunbed use and childhood sunburns.

Does mole mapping detect cancer?

Mole mapping is highly effective at detecting suspicious changes in moles, including early signs of melanoma. It is used in combination with dermoscopy and dermatologist review, meaning any potentially cancerous lesions can be identified and referred for treatment promptly.

Centre of excellence

The Surgical Institute Dublin team

Every consultation, procedure, and follow-up at Surgical Institute Dublin is delivered by a specialist consultant.

Meet our specialists

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Patient reviews

(6) reviews

  • Surgical Institute Dublin is a very professional organisation providing excellent care in a purpose built facility. I was particularly impressed with the ‘See and Treat‘ consultation process and the exceptional people I encountered there!

    Ciaran Donnellan

  • Fantastic service from start to finish. Was able to book and be seen in short order, which is a rarity in Irish healthcare! Staff were very friendly and welcoming. Overall top quality experience.

    Paul Benson

  • Would highly recommend the new Surgical Institute Dublin! I was very worried about a skin lesion on my head and was amazed at how quickly they got me in for an appointment. The facility is completely modern and state-of-the-art. One of the best facilities in Europe!

    It was incredibly convenient to be able to see a top dermatologist and a plastic surgeon all in the same visit. Fantastic, efficient care.

    Conor Doyle

  • Excellent experience. Very accessible, staff excellent and I was able to get treated straight away after my consultation.

    Andrew Lynam

  • Very easy process from booking to consultation and procedure. Lovely staff, professional and efficient service. Clean and modern facilities. Couldn’t fault the place.

    Brendan Power

  • This see-and-treat service is absolutely fantastic! I was very impressed with the whole experience. Dr Jennifer Boggs and Dr Serena Martin were both kind, lovely and highly professional. I had my full body mole check and a small procedure done in one visit. The service was incredibly efficient. Such a great time saver! All the staff were friendly, smiling and welcoming! Highly recommend!