Hi Emily,

The dermatologist will check your mole using a dermascope which shows any unusual cell changes in the mole. If they think it looks suspicious they will suggest it's removed for a biopsy as this is the only way to confirm if it's fine or cancerous. Removal will be done (usually at a later date) under local anaesthetic and as a day patient. Results are then given a few weeks later.

75% of patients referred to dermatology receive a clean bill of health - either the mole is benign or dysplastic (also described as atypical or precancerous). Hopefully yours will be fine. Good luck and please let us know how you get on.

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)