Biopsy
A typical case, in 6 steps over 1 visit. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Steps in a typical case
Cleaning the skin
The skin is wiped with rubbing alcohol or another antiseptic.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Numbing
An injection numbs the area. It may burn or sting briefly while the medicine goes in.
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Taking the sample
Depending on the type, a thin top layer is shaved off (tangential or shave biopsy), a small tube-shaped tool takes a deeper sample (punch biopsy), or a blade removes part of the growth (incisional biopsy).
Visit 1 · Source 1
Closing the wound
Bleeding is stopped with pressure or medicine. A punch biopsy may be closed with stitches.
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Bandage and wound care
Petroleum jelly and a bandage cover the wound. Each day the wound is cleaned, a little petroleum jelly is applied and the bandage is changed.
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Lab report
A dermatopathologist looks at the skin under a microscope and writes a report. The dermatologist reviews the report and then shares what it found.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Questions to ask your dermatologist
- The typical case takes one visit. Would mine, and how long would it take?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long will healing take, and will it leave a mark?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses 11102, 11104, 11106).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- What is a skin biopsy?. AAD. www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/what-is-skin-biopsy. Accessed November 6, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: 11102, 11104, 11106.