What to Expect During a Skin Biopsy

Posted by adortalukdar on May 11th, 2015

If you have noticed an unusual growth on your skin, or if you have noticed that an existing growth or mole that you have has changed size or color, you may need to have a skin biopsy to find out what is happening. These simple tests are regularly carried out in order to diagnose skin disorders or to rule out any causes for concern. If your dermatologist suggests that you need to have a skin biopsy it is no cause for concern, because this procedure is routine and simple, and it is designed to help to protect your health. There are three main types of skin biopsy.

Shave Biopsy

A shave biopsy normally takes about 15 minutes to complete. During the procedure, your doctor or dermatologist will use a razor-like tool to scrape the surface of the skin. You may feel mild discomfort for a few moments, but you will not normally need to have stitches at the affected area.

Punch Biopsy

This procedure should also take about 15 minutes to complete. A special circular bladed tool will be used to remove skin from the affected area. This type of biopsy takes skin from a deeper area than a shave biopsy would, in order to check for problems in deeper layers of skin. The area from which the skin is taken may bleed, and should be bandaged and treated following the procedure, in order to prevent infections.

Excisional Biopsy

This type of biopsy is the most invasive, and will normally take longer than other procedures. These biopsies can take up to 1 hour depending on the complexity of the procedure. Any abnormal skin will be cut away, and some “normal” looking skin from the surrounding area will also be taken as a safety precaution. Stitching, bandaging and other treatment will normally be required after this type of biopsy has been used, to help to ensure that the area does not become infected.

You may be given local anesthetic during any of these procedures, although sometimes these are not administered during shave treatments. Your doctor will be able to offer you advice on the best way to take care of the affected area following the procedure. If your sample is to be analyzed, your doctor will also talk you through the analysis process, and give you advice about how long the results can take to arrive. If any abnormalities are found, they will subsequently be able to talk to you about treatment. 

If you have any concern about areas of your skin or abnormal growths or moles, get in contact with Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, LLC.