Skin Cancer Screenings

The Importance of Total Body Skin Exams (TBSE): Your Best Defense Against Skin Cancer

A skin cancer screening, also known as a Total Body Skin Exam (TBSE), is a vital and comprehensive visual assessment of your entire skin surface, including areas not typically exposed to the sun. This thorough exam is designed to detect early signs of skin cancer or other skin conditions before they become more serious.

During a TBSE, you’ll be asked to remove your clothing and wear a gown, allowing your dermatologist to systematically examine every part of your skin. This includes often-overlooked areas like the scalp, soles of the feet, and under the nails. The dermatologist will carefully note any moles, lesions, or other abnormalities. If any suspicious areas are detected, further evaluation or a biopsy may be recommended to ensure accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Why TBSEs Are Essential for Your Skin Health

Regular TBSEs are crucial because early detection is the key to successful treatment of skin cancer. Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, can be deadly if not caught early. A TBSE not only helps identify potential cancers at their most treatable stage but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your skin is being closely monitored by an expert.

At Cumberland Skin, we emphasize the importance of routine TBSEs as part of your overall healthcare. By scheduling regular skin exams, you’re taking a proactive step in protecting your skin and your health. Don’t wait until you notice a problem—make TBSEs a regular part of your self-care routine.

Schedule your Total Body Skin Exam at Cumberland Skin today and take the first step toward safeguarding your skin’s health and catching any issues early. Your skin deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it.

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of skin cancer, and regular screenings are recommended, especially for individuals with a history of sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, or other risk factors. If any suspicious lesions are identified, further diagnostic tests or biopsies may be recommended for a more accurate diagnosis.

Regular skin cancer screenings are an important part of dermal healthcare, promoting early detection and timely intervention.

At Cumberland Skin, we perform Total Body Skin Exams (TBSEs) every day. They are a crucial part of how we find potential skin cancer lesions, and keep our patients safe. If you’re interested in learning more about skin cancer, including the most common types, its warning signs and symptoms, and how we treat skin cancer here in Tennessee, schedule a Total Body Skin Exam with one of our skin experts today!

During a total body skin exam (TBSE), patients can expect a thorough examination of their skin by a dermatologist. 

You will be asked to stand or sit, and your dermatologist will systematically examine the entire body, including the scalp, face, neck, torso, arms, hands, legs, feet, and even between the toes and the soles of the feet.

Your provider will closely examine moles, freckles, birthmarks, and any other skin abnormalities. They will assess the size, shape, color, and borders of each lesion. If any suspicious lesions are identified, they will discuss their findings with you and may recommend further diagnostic tests or a biopsy for a more accurate diagnosis.

Depending on the findings, your dermatologist may recommend scheduling for follow-up screenings or additional appointments for monitoring or treatment.

Remember, a TBSE is a proactive measure for early detection of skin cancer, and patients are encouraged to communicate openly with their healthcare provider about any concerns or questions they may have during the examination.

To prepare for your total body skin exam (TBSE), schedule a convenient appointment time, arrive on time, and wear easily removable clothing for a comprehensive examination.

Before the appointment, take note of specific moles or skin concerns, and consider going makeup-free if you have concerns about your face. Arrange your hair for scalp examination and remove nail polish if necessary. Share your medical history, including any family history of skin cancer, and bring a list of current medications.

Feel free to ask questions to ensure a clear understanding of the TBSE process. Remember, this routine procedure is designed for early detection of skin cancer, and your dermatologist is there to address your concerns and support your skin health.

No, there is typically no recovery needed for a total body skin exam (TBSE). A TBSE is a non-invasive dermatological exam. Since it does not involve any surgical procedures or interventions, patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the examination.

After a TBSE, individuals may choose to keep an eye on any areas of concern identified by the dermatologist and follow any recommendations for self-monitoring.

It's essential to maintain good skin health practices, such as regular use of sunscreen, protection from excessive sun exposure, and self-examination of the skin for any changes between medical appointments.