Hi,

Please don't freak out over it. It's good that the dermatologist picked up on it but she obviously doesn't think it needs removal unless it changes (it could have had the black dot since it first appeared). They very often suggest monitoring a mole and in most cases there are no changes and they are happy to leave them. My niece has had dysplastic (pre-cancerous) moles removed in the past & they often monitor one or more of her moles - they don't change so they are happy the moles are benign.

If you are worried that any subtle changes aren't picked up quickly enough, you can do the following every 2 weeks. Photograph the mole & put a ruler alongside so it shows the measurement. In that way you can see from the photos if there are any subtle changes in size, colour or shape & you can ask for your appointment to be brought forward. This will help you feel in control of the situation and may help to calm your worries while waiting for the next appointment.

Good luck and please let us know how you get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient)