After a melanoma, you usually remain under follow-up for a period.
How often you are checked depends on factors such as the stage of the melanoma, the treatment, and your personal situation.
What happens during a follow-up appointment?
During a follow-up, the doctor usually examines your skin and the area where the melanoma was located.
Other moles or spots that have changed may also be examined.
Often, the doctor will also feel your lymph nodes, for example, in your neck, armpits, or groin.
What can you bring up yourself?
The doctor will usually ask how you are doing and if you have noticed any symptoms or changes.
Have you seen a spot at home that you are concerned about? Or are you experiencing discomfort somewhere? Then this is a good time to discuss it.
You can also bring up questions about your results, follow-up appointments, or the period afterward.
How can you prepare?
It can help to briefly write down what you want to ask beforehand.
If you have noticed a changing spot, you can take a photo of it. This way, you can better show what you have observed.
You can also bring someone with you if you find that helpful.
What is especially important to know?
Follow-up appointments are intended to detect changes in time and to discuss how you are doing.
How such a follow-up proceeds can vary per person. Your doctor can explain how often you will be checked and what will be monitored during your appointments.
