Mole Checks in Seoul: Dermoscopy Screening by a Board‑Certified Dermatologist
Most moles are harmless, but a mole that is new, changing or different from the rest deserves a professional look. A dermatologist examines your moles with dermoscopy and advises whether to monitor, remove or biopsy.
When should a mole be checked by a dermatologist?
A mole should be checked if it is new in adulthood, changing in size, shape or colour, bleeding or itching, or looks different from your other moles (the “ugly duckling” sign). A dermoscopy exam takes about 15–30 minutes and suspicious moles can be biopsied the same day.
What we check
Warning signs: the ABCDE rule
Any one of these is a reason to book a check.
A — Asymmetry
One half of the mole does not match the other.
B — Border
Irregular, notched or blurred edges.
C — Colour
Several shades of brown, black, red, white or blue.
D — Diameter
Larger than about 6 mm, or growing.
E — Evolving
Any change in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms.
Ugly duckling
A mole that looks different from all the others; see skin cancer screening.
How it works
How a dermoscopy mole check works
Dermoscopy uses a lit magnifier to see pigment patterns below the skin surface that the naked eye cannot. Benign moles can be monitored or removed for cosmetic reasons; suspicious moles are biopsied and sent to a pathologist.
- History: personal and family history of skin cancer
- Exam: full‑skin check with dermoscopy
- Decision: monitor, remove or biopsy
- Follow‑up: pathology result and next check date
What to expect
Your mole check, step by step
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Consultation
Tell Dr. Yun about new or changing moles and family history.
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Dermoscopy
Each concerning mole is examined and can be photographed.
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Plan
Monitor, cosmetic removal or biopsy, explained in English.
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Results
Pathology results and follow‑up advice, also by message.
When to see a dermatologist
- A new mole after age 30
- A mole that is changing or bleeding
- Many moles (more than 50) or unusual moles
- Family history of melanoma
Seek prompt care if
- A mole grows quickly or changes colour
- A dark streak appears under a nail
- A sore that does not heal within 4 weeks
- A mole bleeds without injury
Early detection makes melanoma highly treatable.
Compare
Mole check vs. full skin cancer screening
A mole check focuses on specific spots; a screening covers your whole skin.
| Mole check | Skin cancer screening | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | 1–3 concerning moles | Entire skin surface |
| Best for | A specific worry | Routine prevention, high risk |
| Time | 15–20 minutes | 20–30 minutes |
| Biopsy | If suspicious | If suspicious |
Your dermatologist
Dr. SangYoul Yun
Chief Director · Korean Board‑Certified Dermatologist · AAD International Fellow (IFAAD)
Dr. Yun examines every concerning mole with dermoscopy and explains clearly whether it needs monitoring, removal or a biopsy. Consultations are available in English.
Delight Dermatology Clinic · Registered foreign‑patient medical institution (KHIDI M‑2024‑01‑08‑8248) · 4F, Building B, 509 Gangnam‑daero, Seocho‑gu, Seoul · +82 2‑517‑9991 · About our clinic
FAQ
Mole Checks: frequently asked questions
Is a mole check painful?
No, dermoscopy is a painless visual exam.
Can a mole be removed on the same day?
Often yes; see lesion removal.
Can I get a mole check on a short trip to Seoul?
Yes, and biopsy results can be shared with you by email.
Will laser remove a mole?
Only clearly benign moles are lasered; suspicious moles are excised for pathology.
How often should I check my moles?
Monthly self‑checks, and a yearly exam if you are high risk.
What if it is melanoma?
You will be guided on next steps; see melanoma.
Book a mole check in Gangnam
Send a clear photo of the mole for a fast appointment.