At ProDerm Skin & Surgery, skin biopsies are a routine in-office procedure used to evaluate skin concerns and establish accurate diagnoses. By obtaining a small sample of skin, our providers can identify conditions early and design personalized treatment plans tailored to your health and cosmetic needs.
Treatment Overview
Discomfort: Mild — local anesthesia is used to minimize sensation during the procedure.
Recovery Time: Usually 8–14 days, depending on the biopsy type and location.
Insurance Coverage: Typically covered, though pathology is billed separately.
Benefits
Skin biopsies are an important diagnostic tool because they allow providers to:
- Identify suspicious lesions and rule out skin cancers
- Evaluate chronic rashes, inflammatory conditions, or pigment changes
- Diagnose underlying causes of unexplained skin growths or irritation
- Provide clarity and peace of mind with definitive test results
Types of Skin Biopsies
Depending on the concern, different biopsy techniques may be used:
- Shave Biopsy – A superficial sample is taken from the surface, often for moles or growths near the top layer of the skin.
- Punch Biopsy – A circular tool is used to remove a deeper sample, ideal for rashes, hair loss, or deeper skin conditions.
- Excisional Biopsy – The entire area of concern is removed, often recommended when evaluating possible skin cancers.
What to Expect
Results & Next Steps
Pathology results are generally available within 1–2 weeks and will be reviewed with you in detail. If further testing or treatment is needed, our team will outline next steps. Even when removed for cosmetic reasons, samples are always sent to pathology as a safeguard.
Conditions Commonly Evaluated with Biopsy
Skin biopsies are frequently used to evaluate and diagnose:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
- Atypical moles
- Chronic rashes (e.g., psoriasis, lupus, contact dermatitis)
- Hair loss conditions
- Pigment changes or unexplained skin lesions
Frequently Asked Questions
All biopsies have the potential to leave a small scar, but our providers use careful techniques to minimize this. Scar care options such as silicone gel, tape, or patches may be recommended
Most biopsy results are available within 1–2 weeks. Our office will contact you as soon as they are reviewed. If you have not heard back after two weeks, we encourage you to call.
This depends on the biopsy type. Shave biopsies usually don’t require sutures, while punch or excisional biopsies may need stitches for proper healing.