Post-Biopsy or Removal Instructions

What is a biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a procedure used to sample tissue that can be sent to a lab to diagnose certain skin conditions.

The two most common methods of are biopsy are:

  • Shave biopsy: This uses a razor to remove a superficial layer of skin. Stitches usually are not needed after this procedure.

  • Punch biopsy: This uses a “punch tool” to remove a small section of skin, but includes deeper layers. Stitches may be required in this case to close the wound.

A removal, such as for a mole, may similarly use either one of these methods.

What are my post-biopsy instructions?

Bleeding:

  • It is normal to see some bloody drainage on the bandage for a few days after the procedure

  • We advise avoiding alcoholic beverages during the healing process, as alcohol dilates blood vessels, which can lead to bleeding. Alcohol may also interact with prescribed medications.

  • If you have significant bleeding from the site, press firmly on the area with a clean gauze for a full 20 minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, repeat this step with an ice pack wrapped in a clean paper towel. If the bleeding still hasn’t stopped after repeating this step, it is not an emergency, but you can call our office for assistance!

Wound Care:

  • Keep the bandage dry for 24 hours

  • After 24 hours you can remove the bandage and gently clean the biopsy site with soap and water

  • Apply Vaseline or Aquaphor Ointment or petroleum jelly on the wound, then cover with a regular bandage

  • Avoid using over the counter topical antibiotics like Neosporin. If applied repeatedly, this can cause an allergic reaction.

  • Repeat this process daily until the wound heals (about 1-2 weeks, depending on the location)

  • Once the treated area has healed, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 to the area to help protect it from further scarring. Reapply every 2 hours, or as according to the sunscreen’s instructions.

Activity Restrictions:

  • While the wound is healing, avoid submerging in “dirty” waters such as lakes, ponds, oceans, and hot-tubs.

When should I call the office?

  • You develop a fever

  • You develop spreading redness. Redness around the wound is normal, but if the redness is spreading/growing and is warm to the touch, please call.

  • You develop worsening swelling and severe pain.

  • You develop purulent drainage. Seeing some white or gray in the center of the wound is normal, but if there is yellow/green and smelly pus dripping out of the wound, please call.

  • Our office phone number to call is: 720-915-5343

When do I follow-up?

  • Follow up in the office as instructed by your dermatologist.

  • Normally, we bring patients back in 1 week. At this appointment, your dermatologist will go over your biopsy results, check on the wound, and review potential treatment plans.