Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about melanoma:

1. What type of tests will be performed to diagnose my skin cancer?
   
   
2. What type of melanoma do I have?
   
   
3. How large and thick is my melanoma?
   
   
4. Will I need a lymph node dissection?
   
   
5. What is the stage of my cancer?
   
   
6. What is the best treatment option for my condition?
   
   
7. What are the risks and benefits of this treatment?
   
   
8. If my growth is removed, will I have a scar?
   
   
9. What are the chances that my cancer will return?
   
   
10. How often should I be checked since I have had melanoma?
    
    
11. Are my family members at higher risk for melanoma?
    
    
12. Should my family members be screened more often because of my diagnosis?