Skin Biopsy
Some of the common questions people have asked about skin biopsies are:
What is a Skin Biopsy?
Does the word Biopsy scare you?
Will I be numb?
Will a biopsy hurt?
The providers here at Advanced Dermatology take a lot of pride in providing the utmost care for their patients. We understand that this procedure may be scary. The providers will take time to explain the procedure in detail, answer any questions you may have and walk you through the procedure step by step.
If your preference is to not know the steps, we understand.
Different Types of Skin Biopsies:
Shave biopsy: The most common type of biopsy. This involves taking a thin slice off the top of the skin (usually a few millimeters thick). The instrument used is a Wilkinson blade or a scalpel. The sample will be examined under the microscope by our trained dermatopathologist in our building.
Punch biopsy: takes a core sample of the affected area of skin. This method can be used to diagnose rashes and other conditions. This sample will be examined under the microscope by our trained dermatopathologist in our building. Occasionally, after a punch biopsy, the wound is then closed with a few sutures (stiches) for better cosmetic results.
Excisions: are usually larger and deeper and are used to completely remove an abnormal area of skin such as skin cancer. The goal of this procedure is to remove the whole lesion rather than to remove a small portion to make a diagnosis.
The trained providers at Advanced Dermatology will be the one performing your procedure.
Our staff utilizes many techniques when numbing the site that will be biopsied to ensure this experience is comfortable.
These techniques include:
- small gauged needle,
- room temperature local anesthetic,
- a local anesthetic that has been buffered with saline and sodium bi-carb, and
- experienced staff.
Many patients say they barely felt anything more than a pinch.
Biopsy wound care after your procedure will be discussed in detail. Our staff will provide you with a print out of the wound care instructions to take home.
Visit our Wound Care Information page to learn more.
