At Albany Skin Clinic, we are introducing OptimaScan 3D Total Body Imaging as part of our approach to advanced skin surveillance and melanoma monitoring.

Skin cancer detection relies heavily on identifying change over time. While a single skin examination remains extremely important, technologies that allow us to document and compare the skin longitudinally can provide an additional layer of monitoring for suitable patients.

OptimaScan is designed to assist with this process.

What is OptimaScan?

OptimaScan is an advanced imaging system that captures a comprehensive series of high-resolution photographs of the skin surface in a matter of seconds.

The technology then creates a detailed digital body map that can be used as a baseline reference for future comparison. At subsequent appointments, the system assists clinicians in identifying new or changing lesions that may warrant closer examination.

This process is particularly useful for patients with large numbers of moles, previous skin cancers, significant sun exposure, or other factors that may place them at increased melanoma risk.

Why monitoring over time matters

One of the greatest challenges in skin cancer medicine is recognising subtle change.

Many melanomas do not stand out immediately as obviously abnormal lesions. Instead, they evolve gradually over time. Having access to a detailed visual baseline allows clinicians to compare current findings with previous imaging and identify lesions that may be changing.

For some patients, this can improve confidence in monitoring and may also help reduce unnecessary excisions of stable lesions that have not changed over time.

OptimaScan does not replace a clinical skin examination or dermoscopic assessment. Rather, it acts as an additional monitoring tool used alongside medical expertise and clinical judgement.

Who may benefit from Advanced Skin Surveillance?

This technology may be particularly valuable for patients who:

• have many moles or pigmented lesions
• have a personal or family history of melanoma
• have fair skin or significant cumulative sun exposure
• have previously had skin cancers removed
• are concerned about changing lesions
• are seeking a detailed baseline skin record for future monitoring

Not every patient requires total body imaging, and recommendations regarding surveillance frequency vary depending on individual risk factors.

What happens during the appointment?

The imaging process itself is fast and non-invasive.

OptimaScan captures a comprehensive series of high-resolution images using automated photography and specialised lighting technology. These images are securely stored and form part of your ongoing skin surveillance record.

The scan creates a detailed baseline that can be used for future comparison, helping to identify new or changing lesions over time.

Please note: OptimaScan is a monitoring tool and does not replace a clinical skin examination. Patients are required to have a separate skin check appointment with one of our Skin Clinic doctors, who will review any lesions of concern and determine whether further investigation or treatment is required. The skin check consultation is booked separately and attracts its own consultation fee.

How often should imaging be repeated?

The appropriate interval depends on a patient’s level of melanoma risk, mole pattern, personal history and clinical findings.

For some higher-risk patients, annual surveillance may be recommended. For others, monitoring every few years may be more appropriate.

This is something we discuss individually during consultation.

The role of technology in skin cancer care

Technology continues to improve the way we monitor skin health, but it is important to understand that imaging systems are designed to support — not replace — clinical expertise.

At Albany Skin Clinic, our focus remains on combining thorough clinical assessment with evidence-based technology to support high-quality skin cancer care for patients across the Great Southern region.