Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States — one in five Americans will develop it during their lifetime. Early detection is the single most important factor in survival. Belaray Dermatology offers comprehensive full-body skin cancer screenings at our Hicksville (Nassau County) and Stony Brook (Suffolk County) offices, performed by board-certified dermatologists with three dual board-certified Mohs surgeons on staff for same-practice treatment if needed.
Who Should Get Screened?
- History of sunburns, especially blistering burns in childhood or adolescence
- Fair skin, light eyes, or red/blonde hair
- Personal or family history of skin cancer (melanoma, BCC, or SCC)
- Many moles (more than 50) or atypical (dysplastic) moles
- History of tanning bed use
- Immunosuppression (organ transplant recipients, patients on biologics)
- Significant occupational or recreational outdoor sun exposure
- Age over 50
What Happens at a Full-Body Skin Exam
- Full-body examination — from scalp to toes, including areas patients rarely check themselves
- Dermoscopy — magnified evaluation of suspicious moles using a dermatoscope
- Documentation — concerning lesions noted and photographed for monitoring over time
- Biopsy if needed — same-visit removal and biopsy of suspicious lesions
- Education — you’ll learn the ABCDE warning signs and what to watch at home between visits
Before your visit: arrive without nail polish on fingers or toes, since skin cancer can develop under the nails and the nail beds are part of the exam. Skip makeup, wear your hair loose, and note any spots you want checked.
The Belaray Advantage: Same-Practice Treatment
At Belaray, skin evaluation, biopsy when appropriate, Mohs surgery, and coordinated reconstruction are available within the same practice:
- Detection — full-body exam by a board-certified dermatologist
- Biopsy — same-visit when clinically appropriate
- Mohs surgery — three dual board-certified Mohs surgeons at both locations
- Reconstruction — Dr. Rachel Ellis (ABO-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon) for complex facial and periocular reconstruction
Hicksville: 358 S Oyster Bay Road, Hicksville, NY 11801 · (516) 822-SKIN
Stony Brook: 2500 Nesconset Hwy #20B, Stony Brook, NY 11790 · (631) 864-MOHS
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a skin cancer screening?
Belaray recommends an annual full-body skin exam for most adults, and the American Academy of Dermatology advises exams based on your personal risk. Patients with a history of melanoma or many atypical moles may be seen every 3–6 months. Your dermatologist will recommend a monitoring interval based on your personal risk profile.
Is a skin cancer screening covered by insurance?
Annual skin exams with medical indications are generally covered by major insurance plans. Belaray accepts most major insurers including Medicare. Call ahead to verify your specific plan coverage.
Can I check my own skin for cancer?
Monthly self-exams supplement annual professional exams but do not replace them. A dermatologist uses dermoscopy and clinical training to identify cancers you cannot see yourself — particularly on the scalp, behind ears, and on the back.
What is the difference between a mole check and a full skin cancer screening?
A full-body skin exam examines every accessible area of skin — not just moles. It includes evaluation of spots, patches, and growths that may indicate basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, not all of which resemble moles.
Should I remove nail polish before a skin exam?
Yes. Skin cancer, including melanoma, can develop under fingernails and toenails, so your dermatologist checks the nail beds as part of a full-body exam. Arriving without polish, gel, or acrylics on the day of your visit lets those areas be examined properly. If removing it is not possible, mention it at check-in.
Related reading: what to expect at your first dermatology visit, the sunscreen guide.
Schedule at Belaray Dermatology
Hicksville and Stony Brook, Long Island. Most major insurance accepted.
📅 Book Online 💬 Text (516) 822-7546Medical References
Belaray Dermatology education articles are written by our clinical team and medically reviewed by our physicians. This article draws on guidance from the following authoritative sources:
- American Academy of Dermatology — Skin cancer overview, detection, and self-exams.
- American Cancer Society — Skin cancer facts and statistics.
- Skin Cancer Foundation — Prevention, early detection, and treatment.