The lifestyle of a paradise is full of its benefits: sunny skies, warm ocean breezes, and the breathtaking beaches of Kailua-Kona. But with all this beauty comes a risk that is often not considered that is sun exposure too often and the long-term effect it has on the skin. Our clinic, the clinic of Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology, we think that prevention is more effective than curing, and it begins with a complete body dermatology exam. This extensive, lifesaving test aids in detecting skin cancer early when it's most treatable.
What is the reason a full body skin Check is important
Skin cancer is the most frequent kind of cancer found in the United States. Living in Hawaii and where UV exposure is significantly higher due to the tropical climate, can increase your risk. A full body skin check is a non-invasive, preventive measure that allows board-certified dermatologists to evaluate your skin for any abnormalities--before they become serious health threats.
Melanoma, among the most lethal forms of cancer on the skin, could rapidly grow and cause serious harm if not caught in time. Yet, when detected in the early stages, it is almost always curable. That's why we recommend that every adult, irrespective of age or type of skin conduct a complete body check every year.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your privacy and comfort is our primary concern. For your complete body skin exam, you'll be taken to a separate exam room where one of our board-certified dermatologists will perform a detailed inspection from head to top. This includes:
Scalp
The face and the ears
Chest and neck
Hands and arms
The back and the torso
Legs and feet
A lot of people overlook areas such as between your toes or under your nails, and the genital area (if they have agreed)
We urge you to be aware of any moles, spots that have changed, itched bled, or simply concern you. If we discover anything unusual A small, fast biopsy can be carried out right on the spot and with minimal discomfort. You'll receive clear advice on what next steps to take, in the event of a need.
A Dr. Monica Scheel Difference
At Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology we combine caring care with the most advanced diagnostic tools. The full body skin examinations we offer will not be merely quick glances. They're complete evaluations carried out by highly-trained professionals that are knowledgeable about the specific skin-related dangers that are present in Hawaii.
Here's what sets us apart:
Board certified Dermatologists with expertise in skin cancer detection
High-resolution dermatoscopes for deeper analysis
Biopsies on the same day when required
Individualized follow-up plans and training
Warm, friendly clinics in Kailua Kona and Waimea
Who Should be Checked?
Everyone. Skin cancer does not discriminate against age, gender or race. However, you may be more susceptible to developing skin cancer depending on the following factors:
Do you have a family member or personal experience of skin cancer?
Are fair-skinned or have eyes with a light color. Skin cancer dermatologist Hawaii
There are many moles or freckles
Have experienced severe sunburns in the past?
Make use of tanning beds, or spend the majority of your time outdoors
Are you older than 50
If you're not in the categories above, an annual examination of your skin can save your life.
Timing Is Everything
If it's been more than a year since your last skin exam--or if you've never done one, it's time to make an appointment. Early detection leads to simpler treatments, smaller excisions, and better survival rates. A lot of people think that they'll "just notice" something unusual, but the reality is that harmful changes to the skin are often hidden and painless until it's too long.
Are you planning to visit in the Big Island? You Can Still Book
You may be a local or a tourist taking in the beauty of Kona or Waimea We'd love to have our guests. Many travelers schedule skin checks during their stay as a part of a wellness-focused vacation. We provide flexible appointment times as well as a convenient online booking.
Empowerment Through Education
Your skin check is also an opportunity to learn. We'll teach you how to conduct self-exams every month at home. We'll show you the warning signs to look out for that include:
Asymmetry: The one half the mole doesn't correspond to the other
Border irregularity: Border edges appear blurred, ragged
Color: Shade or color variations
Diameter: greater than 6mm (about equivalent to a pencil eraser)
Evolution: Changes in size, shape, or color in the course of time
We empower our patients with understanding, so that you leave our clinic having been evaluated, but also well-informed.
Financial Options - Because Prevention is a Right that Should be Available
We believe that no one should skip essential dermatologic care because of financial issues. So we provide flexible payment options, like CareCredit and the ability to book today and pay over time. Your health shouldn't wait.
Simply simply click HERE to make an appointment and choose the most suitable payment method that meets your requirements.
Our Locations
You can find us at two conveniently located Big Island locations:
Kailua-Kona Office
Above Costco 73-5618 Maiau Street, Suite A204 Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 (808) 752-3732 Waimea Office
Carter Professional Center, across from Waimea Elementary
65-1230 Mamalahoa Highway, Unit C24
Kamuela (Hawaii) 96743
(808) 752-3745
Click to email
We provide availability during the week, while new patients are always welcomed.
Meet Your Skin Wellness Team
Our practice is led by Dr. Monica Scheel and a team of highly educated dermatology professionals. We've created an office that is built on empathy as well as education and high-quality clinical care. Our staff will ensure that each appointment is painless and that each patient departs feeling well-taken care of and confident.
We're not just an office for dermatology, we're a community partner dedicated to your long-term skin health.