Preparing for your Vectra 2D digital skin mapping at Ivanhoe

Steps

1. 01

   Arrive with a clean face and clean skin

   For the most accurate assessment and best-quality images, remove all makeup (including concealer, foundation and powder), any tinted products (tinted moisturiser, tinted sunscreen) and, where possible, fake tan. Makeup and tinted products can obscure subtle colour changes and surface features that help us detect and track lesions over time.

2. 02

   Remove nail polish where possible

   Nail polish makes it harder to assess nail colour and the skin around the nails. Remove it if you can.

3. 03

   Wear underwear that allows clear skin visibility

   Digital full skin mapping is done in underwear. For men we recommend briefs or smaller styles rather than boxers, which cover more of the upper legs. Choose underwear that is comfortable and allows good visibility of the upper thighs.

4. 04

   Bra off preferred for mapping (women)

   For the mapping photos we prefer the bra off, because bra straps and bands can hide parts of the back, shoulders and upper chest. You can keep your bra on if you prefer. If keeping it on, choose a bra that reveals as much skin as possible (single strap rather than criss-cross), and try to wear the same bra at future visits so images match more closely over time.

5. 05

   Plan your doctor examination

   After the mapping, you have a 40-minute doctor appointment. You will be given a thick cotton patient gown. You can choose whether to keep your bra on or off — we can usually work around it (for example, lifting straps briefly to examine the skin underneath).

6. 06

   Reschedule by phone if needed

   You will receive a reminder 2 days before your appointment. Please confirm when you receive it. If you need to reschedule, call the clinic on (03) 8373 4646 at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid losing your deposit.

7. 07

   Tell us about mobility needs in advance

   If you have any mobility issues, pain or difficulty standing or turning for photos, please call ahead so we can make your visit as smooth as possible.

What to bring

• · A list of any spots you specifically want the doctor to check
• · Photos of any changing or new spots you have taken at home
• · Previous pathology results related to skin cancer or biopsies
• · A list of medications, especially immunosuppressants or photosensitising drugs
• · Your Medicare card

What to wear

• · Comfortable clothing you can change in and out of easily
• · Briefs (men) or underwear that allows good visibility of the upper thighs
• · No makeup, tinted moisturiser or tinted sunscreen
• · Fake tan faded or removed where possible
• · Nail polish removed where possible

After your appointment

You can drive home and return to normal activities immediately after the appointment. If any biopsies were performed on the day, follow the post-biopsy care instructions you will receive. Biopsy results are typically discussed within 7–14 days, by phone or in-person follow-up.