Early Skin Cancer Detection
Skin cancer is one of the most common—yet highly treatable—cancers when identified early. By leveraging advanced technologies, we can detect subtle changes in your moles below the surface, before they’re visible to the naked eye (see further description of these traditional “ABCDEs” changes of melanoma below).
If you are either concerned about one mole, or want a full body skin cancer screening, our clinic offers expert medical skin evaluation using state-of-the-art dermoscopy and FotoFinder® mole mapping to look for changes beneath the surface. Our physician-led assessments provide accurate analysis of skin lesions, and biopsy services on site at your visit.
No referral is required—you can book appointments directly yourself. See Pricing below for this non-OHIP service.
Option 1: Mole Mapping - Full Body Skin Cancer Screening
Combines advanced imaging technology to create a “map” of your moles with a detailed head-to-toe evaluation by our skilled team.
Option 2: Targeted Dermoscopy - Visit to Focus on 1 to 3 Moles
Mole Mapping
Full Body Skin Cancer Screening
During your full body skin examination by the doctor, we use advanced AI assisted FotoFinder technology to create a digital high-resolution record of your moles for long-term monitoring - mole mapping. Moving forward, we use this “map” of your moles to spot new potential moles, or even subtle changes in a mole you’ve had for years, that can signal early skin cancer changes—often before they’re visible to the naked eye. This allows us to:
Identify moles that may need on-site biopsy during your visit.
Monitor for new moles that could be the start of cancer
Remember each mole, increasing the chances you find moles that are changing at your follow up
Key Benefits
Earlier Detection: Identify melanoma and other skin cancers at the earliest possible stages.
Comprehensive Records: Build a permanent photographic log of your skin for future reference.
Ongoing Monitoring: Track subtle changes in size, shape, or color that can indicate potential problems.
Who Should Consider Mole Mapping?
Individuals any age with numerous or irregular moles
Anyone who has noticed a concerning or changing mole
Anyone with a history of abnormal (“dysplastic”) moles
People with a personal or family history of skin cancer (melanoma, BCC, SCC)
Anyone with fair skin, freckles, or red hair
Those with a history of significant sun exposure or tanning bed use (including childhood sunburns)
Individuals on immunosuppressive medication
Take charge of your skin’s health—schedule your mole mapping appointment online today at Bay Charles Medical in Yorkville, Toronto.
What is FotoFinder?
Mole Mapping Digital Dermoscopy Technology
FotoFinder is an advanced, high-resolution imaging system (dermoscopy) at the core of our mole mapping service. By capturing ultra-clear images and tracking them over time, it provides vital insights into changes that occur under the skin before you can see them that may indicate skin cancer.
High-Resolution Imaging
Powerful Magnification: The FotoFinder system uses high-resolution cameras and magnification up to 140x, giving us a detailed view of the structure and patterns under your skin.
Precise Identification: This level of clarity helps us accurately spot atypical features in your moles and aids in making informed decisions about biopsies.
The Power of Polarized Light
Deeper Visibility: Polarized light penetrates the skin’s surface below what we can see with only our eyes - it minimizing glare and reveals underlying structures that may otherwise go unseen without it.
Enhanced Accuracy: By illuminating subtle patterns and features, polarized light lets us detect early signs of cancer that would be nearly impossible to catch with the naked eye.
Advanced AI Support
AI-Driven Analysis: FotoFinder’s built-in AI highlights suspicious moles and documents each one, ensuring thorough examination.
Peace of Mind: It automatically remembers and can tracks if you have changes in your moles—no matter how small—to flag for closer inspection, improving your chances of early intervention.
By combining FotoFinder technology with our clinical expertise, we offer you the most thorough and reliable skin assessment possible. Ready to safeguard your skin health?
New to our clinic?
If it’s your first time visiting us, we warmly welcome new patients for skin cancer screening and mole mapping. Simply check our available appointments for mole mapping and book your visit at our Yorkville, Toronto location — we’re here to help you prioritize your skin health!
How It Works
Initial Consultation
We begin by reviewing your skin concerns, including any personal or family history of skin cancer.Full-Body Digital Imaging
During your 30–45 minute initial appointment, we capture high-resolution images of your entire skin surface. This creates a crucial baseline that helps us monitor for changes over time.Doctor Review & Dermoscopy Analysis
Next, Dr. Chris Culligan conducts a detailed examination of any moles or lesions using both a handheld dermoscope and the FotoFinder Medicam, which can magnify up to 140x under polarized light. This in-depth assessment helps us spot subtle features that might indicate skin cancer.Biopsy & Referral If Needed
If any concerning lesions are identified, we can often perform a biopsy the same day. When necessary, we coordinate with specialized skin cancer clinics—such as Carlton Skin Clinic, Toronto’s premier center for facial skin cancer—to ensure you receive the best possible care.Follow-Up & Ongoing Monitoring
Using FotoFinder’s AI “memory,” we compare new images with your baseline to detect even subtle changes or new moles. This proactive monitoring improves the likelihood of catching potential issues early, enabling timely intervention and giving you greater peace of mind.
By combining advanced imaging with personalized medical expertise, we strive to provide one of the most thorough and reliable skin assessments available. Ready to take a proactive approach to your skin health? Book your Mole Mapping appointment at Bay Charles Medical today—no physician referral needed!
Dr. Chris Culligan MD MSc CCFP
Dr. Chris Culligan is a physician with a practice focused on skin changes including venous skin disorders and the prevention and diagnosis of skin cancers. A graduate of Dalhousie Medical School, Dr. Culligan has extensive experience as an emergency room physician at Toronto General and Toronto Western Hospitals within the University Health Network, and as an educator in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto. He completed certification in Dermoscopy from Cardiff University, Wales. Dr. Culligan specializes in advanced skin cancer screening and mole biopsies. His practice emphasizes screening for early detection of skin cancer,.
Dr. Culligan also treats chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins using minimally invasive techniques like EVLT (Endovenous Laser Therapy) and Venaseal ablations.
He collaborates with leading skin cancer centres, including the Carlton Skin Clinic, Toronto’s largest facility for managing skin cancers, to ensure patients receive top-quality care.
Pricing
Skin imaging is a specialized service not covered by OHIP, so it must be privately billed. While mole mapping itself is not eligible for OHIP coverage, certain procedures, such as biopsies, are included under OHIP. For these additional services, we kindly ask that you bring your health card to the appointment.
Mole Mapping - Full Body Skin Cancer Screening
$350+HST
Mole mapping is our top recommendation for comprehensive skin assessment, combining advanced imaging technology with a detailed head-to-toe evaluation by our skilled team.
Targeted Dermoscopy - Visit to Focus on 1 to 3 Moles
$150 + HST
This service focuses imaging and evaluation of 1 to 3 specific moles using our advanced Digital Dermoscopy technology (this is not a full body mole mapping). Ideal for monitoring just one to three concerning or irregular moles, this non-invasive assessment provides high-resolution images.
Insurance?
Coverage for mole mapping depends on your insurance provider and the medical necessity of the procedure. We can assist you with the necessary documentation you may need to submit a claim.
ABCDE of Melanoma Screening
Traditionally, clinicians rely on the “ABCDEs” changes of melanoma you can see with your eyes. This handy acronym helps identify changes that become apparent once the cancer is large or advanced enough to be seen on the skin’s surface.
A – Asymmetry
One half of the mole does not match the other half in shape, color, or thickness.B – Border Irregularity
The edges of the mole appear uneven, jagged, blurred, or notched instead of smooth and well-defined.C – Color Variation
The mole contains different hues or shades—such as brown, black, tan, red, or even white—rather than a uniform color.D – Diameter Larger Than 6 mm
Although melanoma can be smaller, moles that exceed 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) or are noticeably enlarging warrant closer attention.E – Evolving (or Changing)
Any noticeable change in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait (including new symptoms like bleeding or itching) could signal a problem.
However, early skin cancer often begins beneath the surface—well before these signs become visible. That’s why using dermoscopy is transforming how to spot skin cancer - improving our ability to spot skin cancers even earlier.
Our mission is to make advanced AI-powered mole mapping with full body skin examination accessible to everyone. At our conveniently located Yorkville clinic—no physician referral necessary—we provide comprehensive mapping and on-site biopsies for suspicious moles. Mole mapping is a non-OHIP service - see below for further description and pricing.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer generally refers to the abnormal growth of skin cells, most often triggered by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The three most common forms include basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. BCC tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads beyond the skin. SCC can be more aggressive if left untreated, potentially spreading to other parts of the body. Melanoma is considered the most serious, as it can advance rapidly and become life-threatening. Early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes for all types of skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
If a suspicious lesion is detected during your mole mapping or skin examination, a biopsy may be recommended. Should a diagnosis of skin cancer be confirmed, medical professionals typically use one or more of the following treatment options, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Treatment may be provided at specialized clinics, such as Carlton Skin Clinic, or hospital-based centers.
Cryosurgery
Some early skin cancers can be treated by freezing the affected cells with liquid nitrogen. As the tissue thaws, the destroyed cells are naturally shed.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
In this approach, the surface of the cancerous lesion is carefully scraped away using a tool called a curette. An electric needle is then used to cauterize and eliminate any remaining abnormal cells. This method is often considered for cancers on the arms, legs, or torso, based on size and characteristics.
Excisional Surgery
Commonly used for various skin cancer types, this surgery involves cutting out both the cancerous tissue and a small margin of surrounding healthy skin to ensure complete removal. This can be accomplished during the original biopsy, although some diagnosis require further excision to remove surrounding tissue that may be affected.
Mohs Surgery
Recommended in certain cases of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, Mohs Surgery involves removing thin layers of skin one at a time. Each layer is examined under a microscope to identify cancerous cells. This process continues until no abnormal cells remain, helping to conserve as much healthy tissue as possible.
Your healthcare team will guide you to the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs, ensuring all necessary care is coordinated to achieve the best possible outcome.
Short FAQ
Does mole mapping hurt? No
Where are you located? 100 Charles Street West, Yorkville Toronto - in-between TTC Museum and Bay stations.
Do I need a referral for a mole mapping appointment? No. You can schedule an appointment directly.
How do I get my results? You’ll be shown everything the same day. If you have a biopsy, we will reach out to share pathology diagnosis when we get the final pathology report.
What happens if a suspicious mole is found? (Our team is equipped to evaluate suspicious moles and will discuss the most appropriate biopsy options with you, including a potential biopsy at your visit, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.)
Is it safe for pregnant women? Yes
How often should I schedule a mole mapping session? Most people it is recommended once a year, although sometimes more often depending on your skin type, personal history, and risk factors.
How long does a mole mapping session take? Typically, a session takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on how many moles you have.
Will my photos be kept confidential? Absolutely. We use secure encrypted systems to store your images and protect your privacy at all times.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Avoid wearing makeup or nail polish: This helps ensure clear imaging of your skin and nails.
Do not wear black socks or sandals: They may leave stains or lint on your skin, which could be mistaken for moles.
Shave or clip body hair: If you have significant body hair, trimming or shaving helps us get a clearer view of your moles.
Bring a hairband: Tie your hair up to expose your neck and shoulders for a complete assessment.
Avoid self-tanner: Refrain from using self-tanner for at least six weeks before your imaging session.
Remove jewelry: It’s best to leave your jewelry at home to make the process smoother.
You will undress to a level you’re comfortable with, as the camera cannot capture moles or detect changes hidden beneath clothing. We do provide disposable underwear if needed.
Following these steps will help us get the most accurate results. Ready to protect your skin?
