Living in paradise comes with many benefits, including sunny skies and warm ocean breezes, and stunning beaches of the island of Kailua. However, along with this beauty is an unintentionally overlooked risk the excessive exposure to sunlight and the long-term effect it has on your skin. In the clinic of Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology, our philosophy is that prevention is more effective than treating, and that begins with a complete examination of your skin. The comprehensive, life-saving examination helps detect skin cancer early in the moment it's the most treatable.
Why a Full Body Skin Check is Important
Skin cancer is the leading type of cancer in the United States. Being a resident of Hawaii with UV exposure that is much higher because of the tropical climate increases your chance of developing skin cancer. 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 of skin cancer could expand rapidly and be life-threatening if not caught in time. However, if it is detected early, it's virtually always curable. That's why we advise that every adult, irrespective of age or skin type take a body check every year.
What is to Expect During Your Appointment?
Privacy and your comfort are among our top priorities. When you undergo your full body skin check, you'll be escorted to a private space where one of our dermatologists with board certification will carry out a thorough inspection from head to the toe. This includes:
Scalp
Face and ears
Chest and neck
Arms and hands
The back and the torso
Foot and leg
Many times, overlooked areas include between your toes, beneath your nails, and the sexual area (if agreed to)
We urge you to note any moles or spots that are changing, itchy, bleeding, or just bother you. If we see anything suspicious the small, easy biopsy is performed right on the spot and with minimal discomfort. You'll receive clear advice regarding the next steps when needed. What to expect during full skin check
The Difference Between Dr. Monica Scheel Difference
When you visit Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology we combine patient-centered care with the latest diagnostic tools. Our complete body skin exams do not just provide quick glances; they are comprehensive evaluations performed by highly trained experts who know the specific dangers of sun exposure in Hawaii.
Here's what sets us apart:
Board-Certified Dermatologists who are experts in skin cancer detection
High-resolution dermatoscopes for deeper analysis
Daily biopsies when needed
Individualized follow-up plans and education
Warm, friendly clinics in KailuaKona as well as Waimea
Who is the person to be checked?
Everyone. Skin cancer does don't discriminate based on age gender, or ethnicity. However, you may be more at risk if you:
Are you a member of a family or have a personal past history of skin cancer
Are fair-skinned or have eye color that is light
Find a lot of moles, or freckles
Have you experienced severe sunburns in the past?
You can use tanning beds to spend significant time outdoors
Are you older than 50?
Even if you fall outside these categories, an annual skin examination can save your life.
Timing is Everything
If it's been over a year since your last skin exam, or you've never ever had one, it's the right time to get one. An early detection can mean less time spent on treatment small excisions, less invasive procedures, and more likely survival rates. Many people believe that they'll "just observe" an unusual change, but the truth is that dangerous signs of skin aging are often subtle and painless until they're too advanced.
Are you planning to visit on the Big Island? You Can Still Book
If you're a local or a visitor to the natural beauty of Kona or Waimea, we welcome you. A lot of travelers book skin exams on their vacations as part of a health-oriented trip. We provide flexible appointment time and easy online booking.
Empowerment Through Education
A skin exam is an the chance to get educated. We'll show you how take your self-exams each month at home, and will explain the symptoms to look for such as:
Asymmetry Part of the mole isn't in line with the other
Border irregularity: The edges are blurred or ragged.
Color Different shades or colors
Diameter: larger than (about what the dimensions of a pencil eraser)
Changes: Changes in size or shape over time
We empower our patients through expertise, which means that you leave our clinic not just checked, but also informed.
Financial Options - Because Prevention Is a Real Issue
We believe that no one should miss out on essential dermatologic treatments because of financial constraints. We provide a variety of 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 schedule an appointment and choose the most suitable payment method that fits your needs.
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 Hwy, Suite C24
Kamuela in Hawaii 96743
(808) 752-3745
Click to Email
We can provide same-day availability New patients are received.
Meet Your Skin Wellness Team
Our clinic is run by Dr. Monica Scheel and a team of highly trained dermatology specialists. Together, we've developed an environment that is rooted in empathy, education, and superior clinical practice. Our staff makes sure that each appointment is painless and that each patient is left feeling taken care of and secure.
We're more than a dermatology clinic. We're a provider who's committed to your ongoing skin health.