The life of paradise is filled with its perks--sunny skies, warm ocean breezes, and the stunning beaches of Kailua-Kona. However, along with this beauty comes a hazard that is often overlooked that is sun exposure too often as well as its long-term effects on the skin. Our clinic, the clinic of Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology, our philosophy is that prevention is better than cure. This starts with a full body health check. This thorough, life-saving test can detect skin cancer at an early stage when it's most curable.
What is the reason a full body skin Check is important
Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in United States. Living in Hawaii, where UV exposure is considerably higher due to the tropical climate, increases 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 deadliest forms for skin cancer can expand rapidly and be life-threatening if not caught early. But, if detected in its earliest stages it is almost always curable. This is the reason we suggest that everyone over the age of 18, regardless of age or skin type should schedule a thorough body skin check annually.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your safety and security are our top priorities. For your complete body skin examination, you'll then be escorted to a private location where one our board-certified dermatologists will perform a detailed inspection from head to toe. This includes:
Scalp
Ears and face
Neck and chest
Arms and hands
The back and the torso
Foot and leg
Most often, these areas are overlooked. They include between your toes, beneath your nails and genital area (if consented to)
We invite you to highlight any moles or spots that are changing, itchy, bloody, or that simply worry you. If we observe anything suspicious, a small, quick biopsies can be conducted at the site with little discomfort. You'll be given clear instructions on the next steps should they be required.
A Difference Between Dr. Monica Scheel Difference
Here at Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology, we combine compassionate care with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. Our complete body skin exams are more than just a quick scan. They are extensive evaluations that are performed by highly qualified professionals who are aware of the particular hazards of sun exposure for Hawaii.
What sets us apart:
Board-Certified Dermatologists with a wealth of experience in skin cancer detection
High-resolution dermatoscopes for deeper analysis
Day-to-day Biopsies as needed
Personalized follow-up strategies and training
Friendly, warm clinics in KailuaKona as well as Waimea
Who should be screened?
Everybody. Skin cancer does not discriminate against age, gender, or ethnicity. However, you could be at a greater risk in the following situations:
Have a family or personal background of skin cancer
Are fair-skinned, or have bright-colored eyes.
Do you have lots of moles and freckles
Have you suffered from severe sunburns the past
Relax on tanning beds and spend an extended amount of time outside
Are over the age 50?
Even if you aren't in these categories, an annual skin examination can save your life.
Timing Is Everything
If it's been over an entire year since the previous skin examination, or if you'ven't done one, it's time to make an appointment. Early detection means easier treatments as well as smaller amputations and better odds of survival. A lot of people think that they'll "just notice" things that aren't normal, but the truth is that hazardous skin conditions are usually subtle and painless until they're too to late.
Planning a trip to on the Big Island? You Can Still Book
If you're a local or visiting the beauty of Kona or Waimea We'd like to warmly welcome you. Many tourists book skin examinations during their vacation as part of a health-oriented trip. We provide flexible appointment time as well as a convenient online booking. What to expect during full skin check
Empowerment Through Education
Your skin check is also one of the best opportunities to learn. We'll teach you how to do your own self-exams monthly at home. We'll show you the warning signs to watch for such as:
Asymmetries: One half of the mole doesn't correspond to the other
Border slop: Edges are ragged or blurred
Color Changes in color, shade
Diameter: greater than 6mm (about similar to an eraser pencil)
Growing: Changes in size or shape over time
Our patients are empowered by our understanding, so that you go home not only assessed, but also educated.
Finance Options - Because Prevention is a Right that Should be Available
We believe that no patient ought to delay seeking essential dermatological care because of financial reasons. That's why we offer flexible payment options--including CareCredit and the option to book today and pay over Time. Your health shouldn't be put off.
Simply click here to book an appointment and choose the most appropriate payment option that will meet your needs.
Our Locations
You can find us at two easily accessible 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, Room C24
Kamuela in Hawaii 96743
(808) 752-3745
Click to Send Email
We can provide same-day availability for new and returning patients, always received.
Meet Your Skin Wellness Team
Our clinic is run by Dr. Monica Scheel and a team of highly educated dermatology professionals. We've created an approach that is based on empathy training, knowledge, and superior clinical practice. Our staff ensures that every appointment is painless and that each patient walks away feeling comfortable and at peace.
We're more than an office for dermatology, we're a community provider who's committed to your ongoing skin health.