For example, if a mole has gotten bigger or changed color, you’ll want to tell your doctor this. And remember that a simple freckle may not be a freckle at all, so make note of everything that you see. Write this information down and make a list of all of your concerns -- starting with the biggest concern and working your way down to the smallest one. This will help prioritize what needs to be discussed.
Further, prepare your medical history ahead of time. Write down all health issues that you’ve experienced so that you don’t have to recall them on the day of your appointment. And write down all medications that you’re taking, including prescription meds, over the counter meds and even supplements. After all, these meds could interact with meds that your dermatologist prescribes. And make note of any family history of skin cancer and how much time you’ve spent in the sun as well as places that burns have occurred.
What to Do on Appointment Day
On the day of your appointment, you’ll want to make the best possible use of your time. Exams can be pretty short. In fact, Tanzi says that an annual skin exam on a healthy person with no atypical moles may take just 10 minutes. But numerous moles equate to more time. So the more you have on your body, the more time the doctor will need to spend examining them.
At your doctor’s appointment, don’t be shy. You’ll probably be asked to wear a cloth gown so that your doctor can observe your skin in all areas. This is a good thing because you want doctors to see everything to catch concerning issues early.
Know that you may experience some new things that you haven’t experienced at other types of physicals. According to Health Central, your full body exam may include an exam of the areas between your fingers and toes, genitals, and even a quick peek at your scalp and hairline.
Plus, your moles may need to “say cheese” because pictures may be taken of them. And notes will be recorded regarding freckles and moles that you have. This helps doctors to know what to look at when you come back for your next exam.