Shave Biopsy
Your provider has performed a biopsy – a procedure that removes a small sample of skin to be sent to the lab for microscopic examination. The results should be back to our office within 1-2 weeks, and you will be notified via telephone at that time. If you have not been contacted after 14 days, please call our office during business hours.
BIOPSY SITE CARE
- Leave the original bandage in place and keep dry for first 24-48 hours.
- On the day after surgery, wait until nighttime before showering (i.e. after >24 hours). At this time you may resume most normal grooming activities.
- If you are having difficulties with removal of the bandage, it may help to shower with it in place. Wetting the area often makes the process much easier and less painful.
- Wash the wound gently, using soap and water as you would for normal skin. Repeat 1-2x each day.
- Immediately after washing, dab the wound dry with a clean towel, gauze, or tissue.
- Liberally apply Aquaphor Ointment and cover with Band-Aid or non-stick pad + tape.
- Area should remain covered with ointment and bandage at ALL times (unless washing) for ~1 week.
- Do NOT use antibacterial products such as Neosporin, unless specifically instructed.
OTHER TIPS
- For pain/discomfort, we recommend taking 1 regular strength Tylenol (acetaminophen) + 2 Advil (ibuprofen) every 4-6 hours unless otherwise instructed. Please let us know of any medical conditions that prohibit the use of such medications, including stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney disease, etc. For additional or alternative relief, you may apply ice or cold compression for 15 minutes of every hour.
- For bleeding, apply firm continuous pressure for 10 minutes without lifting (no peaking!). If this fails to resolve the issue, apply an ice pack with continuous pressure and/or contact our office immediately.
- During the healing process, your wound may develop a red rim around the edge and/or yellowish material at the base – this is normal and should NOT be cause for concern. Further, symptoms of itching, tingling, and numbness are to be expected and should resolve on their own in the following days to weeks. Infections are rare but should be considered if there is oozing, purulent drainage, or profound/exquisite symptoms.
- After the initial healing, your site will develop a scar that may remain pink for weeks to months thereafter. This discoloration, however, should eventually fade with time, and the process may be hastened by strict photoprotection (i.e. avoidance of direct sunlight, use of opaque bandages, etc).
Your insurance information will be sent to the lab for billing purposes. If you do not have insurance or your insurance did not cover the biopsy in full, you will receive a bill directly from the lab within several weeks.