Mole Check Brisbane

A mole check is an examination by a doctor or dermatologist to assess whether a mole is benign (non-cancerous) or requires further investigation. This guide explains when to get a mole checked, what to expect, and how to find mole check services in Brisbane.

What is a mole?

A mole is a small growth on the skin, usually brown or black. Most moles are benign (non-cancerous) and do not pose a health risk. However, some moles can become cancerous (melanoma), so regular monitoring is important if you have many moles or a family history of skin cancer.

When should you get a mole checked?

You should have a mole assessed by a doctor if:

It is new or has recently appeared
It is growing or changing shape
Its colour is changing or becoming uneven
The edges are becoming irregular or blurred
It is bleeding, oozing, or not healing
It itches, hurts, or feels tender
It is larger than a pencil eraser (more than 6mm)
You are simply concerned about it

The ABCDE Rule

Use the ABCDE rule to help identify concerning moles:

Asymmetry: One half does not match the other half
Border: Edges are ragged, blurred, or irregular
Colour: Multiple colours or uneven colouring
Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (more than 6mm)
Evolution: Changing in size, shape, or colour

If your mole has any of these features, see a doctor for assessment.

What happens during a mole check

A mole check is a straightforward process:

Examination: Your doctor will look at the mole closely, often using a dermatoscope (magnifying tool).
Assessment: They will determine whether the mole is benign or needs further investigation.
Photography: If recommended, photos may be taken for your records to monitor future changes.
Discussion: Your doctor will discuss their findings and recommendations, which may include monitoring or removal.

Mole removal

If your doctor recommends mole removal, the reason is usually one of the following:

Medical: The mole shows signs that it may be cancerous and needs biopsy (laboratory examination).
Cosmetic: You are unhappy with the appearance and choose to remove it.
Convenience: The mole is in a place where it is easily irritated (e.g., by clothing).

Removal is typically a quick procedure done under local anesthetic in a clinic. The tissue is examined under a microscope to confirm it is benign.

See a doctor urgently if:

Your mole is bleeding, rapidly changing, or causing pain. Do not wait for a routine appointment.

Frequently asked questions

When should I get a mole checked?

Get a mole checked if it is new, growing, changing colour or texture, bleeding, itching, or if you are simply concerned. If a mole is rapidly changing or bleeding, see a doctor soon.

What is the difference between a mole and skin cancer?

Moles are usually small, round, flat or slightly raised brown or black spots. Skin cancer spots may have irregular edges, multiple colours, or asymmetry. Not all moles are cancer, but any changing mole should be checked by a doctor.

How long does a mole check take?

A mole check typically takes 10–20 minutes for a single mole or a small area. A full-body check with mole mapping may take 20–40 minutes.

Can a mole be removed?

If a mole is concerning, your doctor may recommend removal for laboratory examination (biopsy). If benign, removal is usually a quick minor procedure done in a clinic under local anesthetic.

Is it safe to remove a mole at home?

No. Never attempt to remove a mole at home. Home removal can cause infection, scarring, and failure to detect cancer. Always have a doctor assess and remove any mole.

Do all moles need to be removed?

No. Most moles are benign and do not need removal. Your doctor may suggest monitoring a mole with photos or recommend removal if it is changing or causing concern.

Mole mapping

If you have many moles or a high risk of skin cancer, your doctor may recommend mole mapping. This is a photographic record of all your moles that allows comparison at future appointments to spot any changes early. Learn more on our mole mapping guide.