Regular Skin Examinations
A skin examination by your doctor involves a thorough and systematic examination of all areas of the skin to see if any moles or lesions are suspicious for melanoma. You will also be checked for other spots and moles that may be related to skin cancer.
Your doctor may also take photographs of selected areas of the body or of the total body. This photographic documentation is a valuable reference for follow-up examinations, particularly if you have numerous pigmented moles or lesions. Many medical centers now offer photographic services, including total body photography, to assist you and your doctor in documenting any new or changing lesion.
The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer-related checkup, including a skin examination, every 3 years for people between 20 and 40 years of age, and every year for anyone age 40 and older.
See also Skin Cancer Screenings.