Full Body Skin Exam IN NAGS HEAD, NC

FULL BODY SKIN EXAM

HAVE AN EXPERIENCED DERMATOLOGIST CHECK YOU OUT FROM HEAD TO TOE AT OUTER BANKS DERMATOLOGY

There are a number of highly effective treatments available for skin cancer. However, the most successful treatment with the least scarring often depends on catching the problem as early as possible. A full body scan at Outer Banks Dermatology in Nags Head, NC, especially when scheduled as part of an annual check-up, is an ideal strategy for maintaining good health.

Prevention is a crucial part of any cancer-fighting plan, including using sunscreen, avoiding peak UV hours, and wearing sun-protective clothing. Performing routine self-checks on a monthly basis is another important step. This gives you a chance to notice if there are any moles or other lesions that are unusual, non-healing, growing, or changing.

A dermatologist can identify suspicious spots, perform tests as needed, and recommend treatment if necessary. A full body scan with a qualified dermatologist is a sure way to get a well-trained and experienced set of eyes watching for anything of concern. While we are happy to perform more limited exams, or “spot checks” upon request, we find that many patients miss or are unaware of potentially dangerous lesions. It is not uncommon for a patient to come in with understandable concern about a benign lesion when they also have a basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or even a melanoma that they are totally unaware of.

FAQs

WHAT IS A FULL-BODY SKIN EXAM?

A full body scan examines all of the skin on the patient, from the scalp to the soles of their feet. To examine specific lesions more closely and clearly, your dermatologist may use a magnifying glass and light. If anything suspicious is discovered, testing–possibly including a biopsy–can be performed.

The entire full-body scan typically takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

IS PREPARATION FOR A FULL-BODY SKIN EXAM NECESSARY?

Since your dermatologist will need to see all of your skin unobstructed, you should arrive at your appointment without any makeup or cosmetics that cover your skin. If you have questions about your fingernails or toenails you should also arrive without nail polish on the affected areas.

We do recommend that you apply any non-tinted moisturizers or topical medications that you normally use, so we can evaluate how well those products are working for you.

Basically, you want all of your skin to be as clean, natural, and accessible as possible. (We love the beach, but please clean between your toes so the sand does not obstruct our view!)

As a full body scan involves checking everywhere, plan to wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to change into and out of. You will be asked to remove your clothing and change into an exam garment provided by Outer Banks Dermatology for the duration of your full-body exam. These are lightweight paper exam garments, so, if you are prone to getting chilled, we recommend that you bring a lightweight jacket or other wrap to throw on over top of your exam garments. We try very hard to stay on time but sometimes waits are unavoidable.

CAN A FULL-BODY SKIN EXAM BE COMBINED WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?

The primary goal of a full-body skin exam is to detect early signs of potential skin cancer, but other dermatological conditions may also be discussed, such as acne, eczema, sun damage, benign moles and warts, hair loss, and more. A full body scan may be scheduled on the same day as a Botox treatment or a cosmetic consultation but will require scheduling extra time to achieve both goals.

READY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT OR CONSULTATION

252-441-7546

READY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT OR CONSULTATION

252-441-7546

Get in touch

Feel free to reach out and ask us anything!

Patients can apply for CareCredit and Cherry for cosmetic procedures.