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Ongoing Mole Monitoring

Some moles and pigmented lesions may not require immediate removal but may benefit from careful monitoring. Keeping track of a lesion over time can help your doctor determine whether it remains stable or develops changes that require closer assessment.

At Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic, mole monitoring can form part of a personalised skin surveillance plan. Our doctors can assess individual lesions using clinical examination and dermoscopy where appropriate, then recommend follow-up based on the lesion’s appearance and your individual risk factors.

Our Services
Comprehensive Skin Checks
Mole & Lesion Assessment
Surgical & Non-Surgical Skin Cancer Treatment
Photodynamic therapy (pdt)
Total body photography
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Excision of Lumps & Bumps
Mole Monitoring
Skin Biopsies
Skin Cancer Excision

Who May Benefit from Mole Monitoring?

Mole monitoring may be considered for patients with:

  • Multiple moles
  • Atypical-appearing moles
  • Numerous pigmented lesions
  • Lesions that are difficult to assess at one appointment
  • An increased risk of melanoma
  • A need for ongoing skin surveillance

Not every mole requires the same approach. Your doctor will assess the lesion and consider relevant risk factors before recommending whether monitoring is appropriate and when it should be reviewed.

How Are Moles Monitored?

Mole monitoring may involve different assessment methods depending on your individual circumstances. These can include:

  • Clinical skin examination
  • Dermoscopic examination
  • Comparison with previous dermoscopic images
  • Total Body Photography where appropriate
  • Follow-up examinations at an interval recommended by your doctor

Previous images can provide a useful reference when assessing whether a lesion has remained stable or developed changes. If a monitored mole becomes concerning, your doctor may recommend further investigation, such as a biopsy or complete surgical removal.

Monitoring Does Not Mean Ignoring a Mole

Being advised to monitor a mole does not mean you should stop paying attention to it. If you notice a significant change between scheduled appointments, contact the clinic rather than waiting for your next routine review.

Changes may include:

  • An increase in size
  • A change in shape or border
  • A change in colour
  • New or persistent symptoms
  • Bleeding or crusting
  • Persistent itching or irritation
  • A new or unusual lesion

If something looks noticeably different or concerns you, arrange an assessment so your doctor can determine whether earlier review is appropriate.

Ongoing Skin Surveillance at Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic

At Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic, mole monitoring can be incorporated into an ongoing skin surveillance plan where clinically appropriate. Our doctors can assess moles and pigmented lesions through clinical examination and dermoscopy, with Total Body Photography considered where suitable.

If you have multiple moles, an atypical-looking lesion or a mole that concerns you, our team can assess your skin and discuss whether regular monitoring may be appropriate for you.

Ask About Mole Monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions

Mole monitoring involves assessing a mole or pigmented lesion over time to determine whether it remains stable or develops changes. Depending on your circumstances, this may involve clinical examinations, dermoscopy, photographic comparison and scheduled follow-up appointments.
No. Some moles may be suitable for monitoring rather than immediate removal. Your doctor will assess the lesion and consider your individual risk factors before recommending monitoring, removal or further investigation.
The appropriate follow-up interval depends on the appearance of the lesion and your individual circumstances. Your doctor will recommend when to review the mole and advise you about any changes that may require an earlier assessment.
Yes. Dermoscopy can provide a closer view of structures within a skin lesion and may be used as part of mole monitoring. Previous dermoscopic images can also serve as a useful reference for assessing changes over time.
Contact the clinic if you notice a significant change in a monitored mole, particularly a change in size, shape or colour, or symptoms such as bleeding, crusting or persistent itching. You do not necessarily need to wait until your next scheduled appointment for an assessment.
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