biopsy

[dobsonian]

hello, i have a growth on my face and i have an appointment to do a biopsy on my face, i was wondering, will it be noticeable right after the surgery? how long will it take to heal, and will it be noticeable when it heals? it is going to be on my cheek fyi.    will hair grow in that area if i get stitches on it?    if i see a cosmetologist how much will that help?   one more questions, what do punch biopsys look for?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Punch biopsy is used for deeper skin lesions. In this the doctor removes a small round piece of skin (usually the size of a pencil eraser) using a sharp, hollow instrument. If a large sample is taken, the area may be closed with stitches. So mostly there is scarring with this biopsy.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[dobsonian]

hello Dr it would be a punch biopsy, can you please give me more info about my questions from the previous post. i am very grateful that you replied ! it will be on my cheek

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Whether you will get a scar or not depends on the type of biopsy procedure done. During a shave biopsy, the doctor uses a tool similar to a razor to scrape the surface of your skin. You usually don't need stitches after a shave biopsy. Similarly in incisional biopsy, the doctor uses a scalpel to remove a small area of skin. Whether you receive stitches to close the biopsy site depends on the amount of skin removed. In punch biopsy and excisional biopsy, you are likely to receive stitches.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.