FAQs
I have had Total Body Photography (TBP) done with Dr Mya or Dr Fong before, why do I
need it done again?
At BSCC we have specialised photography equipment and a studio to take formal Total Body
Photography. Once we have two or more sets of TBP (usually separated by at least 12
months) it will allow us to start using Artificial Intelligence to detect new or changing
lesions. Your thorough head to toe skin check with an experienced skin cancer practitioner
is still necessary at this time as the AI is not yet at the stage where it can replace this.
Although not formal TBP, your previous images are still useful as a record of your skin at
that time.
How does the TBP/Artificial Intelligence work to detect skin cancer?
Our Artificial Intelligence compares two carefully aligned polarised light images of the same
section of your skin, separated in time by at least 12 months, and highlights new or
changing lesions. Each of these suggestions needs to be manually reviewed by a trained
professional (melanographer or your skin cancer doctor). Some of these new or changing
lesions will be pimples/bites/hairs moving over longstanding skin lesions, and will be
dismissed. Others will require review and your skin cancer practitioner will ensure they
check it carefully during your Full Skin Examination.
Why do you request body hair to be trimmed before Total Body Photography?
The photos are high resolution and due to the sensitivity of the AI, it will perceive hair
positioned differently over a skin lesion as a suspicious change. With people with many skin
lesions this will reduce the sensitivity and therefore the usefulness of the serial TBP. We
recommend that hair is CLIPPED closely around 2 days prior to your appointment. Shaving
or waxing are NOT recommended as these traumatise the skin and can create pink
spots/rashes which can also confuse the AI.
I have seen Dr Fong or Dr Mya previously, how do I get my records sent to Braddon Skin
Cancer Clinic?
Please contact the practice which you would like your records sent from as each practice
has a different process which is out of our control. The Surgery at Manuka Terrace will send
your record to us if you email reception@surgerymanukaterrace.com.au with your full
name, DOB and say that you would like your file sent to us.
I have had photos taken of my skin with another doctor, can I get these sent to BSCC?
If you have had photos taken in Dermengine/Molescope before and you can access your
Molescope account, you can invite us to see your file. If you don’t have access we can
request it from your previous practitioner.
If you have photos stored in any other way that you would like us to see, we request that
you bring them to your skin check in a way that we can view them on your own device (eg.
on your phone or tablet/laptop). We are not able to upload external images to our systems.
Preparing for your skin check appointment
1. Ensure that your skin is well moisturised and not dry on the day of your appointment. Do not wear any make up and minimal jewellery.
2. Recent sunburn can change the appearance of moles on your skin, always be sure to practice good sun safety. Laser can also change the appearance of moles temporarily, please advise us if you have had any treatments in the month prior to your visit.
3. For people with significant amounts of body hair removing this as much as possible will mean you get the most out of your Total Body Photography and skin examination. Please do this with CLIPPERS (NOT a razor or by waxing) at least 2 days prior to your appointment. This will allow small pimples, scabs or ingrown hairs time to heal.
