Biopsy
First you need an accurate diagnosis, and a biopsy is the straightest path to an accurate answer.
Answers start with an accurate diagnosis.
Biopsies are performed to confirm a diagnosis when Dr. Johnson cannot say for certain what a lesion or rash is without microscopic analysis of the cells. This is often the case when trying to confirm the diagnosis of a skin cancer or atypical or dysplastic mole/nevus. In these cases, only a small portion of the growth or rash is sampled to send to the lab so we can determine the best treatment plan for the entire lesion or rash.
Most biopsies are quick, performed comfortably in the office using local anesthesia, and require little downtime.
What is a skin biopsy?
A skin biopsy is a simple procedure in which a small sample of skin is removed and sent to a specialized laboratory for microscopic examination. The results help confirm a diagnosis and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
Several biopsy techniques may be used depending on the size, location, and appearance of the lesion.
Biopsy, at a glance.
Your visit starts with an exam — not a recommendation list — and the plan is built from there. Here’s what to expect.
Perfect For
Possible or suspected skin cancers and unusual rashes.
Procedure Time
5 min. Results are sent off to a lab.
Recovery Time
None
Biopsy FAQs
Dr. Johnson may recommend a biopsy if you have:
- A mole or lesion that appears suspicious
- A spot that changes in size, shape, or color
- A growth that bleeds or does not heal
- A persistent rash with an unclear cause
- An unusual skin discoloration
- A lesion that has not responded to treatment
- Possible inflammatory or autoimmune skin disease
The lesion is numbed with a lidocaine shot first, then a portion of the lesion is shaved off with a blade or a small “punch” core of the rash is taken. Don’t worry — your skin will be numb. In the case of a punch biopsy for a rash, you will get 1 or 2 small stitches to pull the skin back together.
We’ll provide detailed wound care instructions and send the specimen to a dermatopathology laboratory Results are typically available within several days, after which we will discuss the findings and any recommended next steps.
Most patients experience only a brief pinch from the numbing medication. After the area is numb, the biopsy itself is usually painless.
Recovery is minimal for either a shave or punch biopsy. You can mostly return to all normal activities. You should keep the area covered with a bandage until your follow-up appointment in 1-2 weeks. Keeping the area clean and following your wound care instructions helps promote proper healing and minimize scarring.
If a cancer diagnosis is confirmed, Dr. Johnson may recommend excision or another treatment.
To learn more or to get a rash, mole or lesion checked, schedule an appointment with Steele Dermatology online or give us a call at (770) 464-6000.
Need answers about a skin concern?
When a diagnosis matters, experience matters. Dr. Johnson carefully evaluates each skin concern and recommends biopsies only when clinically appropriate. Our goal is to provide clear answers, timely results, and personalized treatment recommendations for every patient
If you have a changing mole, persistent rash, or unusual skin growth, Steele Dermatology can help determine the cause with expert evaluation and, when appropriate, an in-office skin biopsy.
Request an appointment
Schedule online, call (770) 464-6000 or text us, and one of our specialists will assist you.
