What happens after a skin biopsy?
Your doctor took a small sample of a spot and sent it off. Here is what happens between now and your results, in plain English.
First, what a biopsy actually is
A skin biopsy is a small sample of skin taken under local anaesthetic so it can be examined under a microscope by a pathologist. It is how doctors move from "this spot looks suspicious" to knowing exactly what it is. The procedure itself is usually quick, and for most people the anaesthetic injection is the only part that stings.
The first few days
Once the local anaesthetic wears off, the area can be a little tender. Your doctor will give you specific instructions for your wound, and those instructions beat anything you read online, including this. As a general rule you will leave the clinic with a dressing and guidance on how long to keep the area dry and covered, and what to watch for.
Where your sample goes
The sample goes to a pathology laboratory, where it is processed and examined. Your doctor will tell you when to expect results and how you will hear from the practice. If you have not heard anything by the time you were told to expect results, call and ask. Never assume no news is good news with pathology.
The possible outcomes
Broadly, results come back one of three ways:
Benign. The spot is harmless. Depending on what it is, your doctor may still suggest keeping an eye on the area as part of your routine checks.
Something that needs treatment. If the biopsy shows a skin cancer or a lesion that should come off, your doctor talks you through the options. Most excisions and minor procedures happen on site at the clinic, usually with the same doctor who did your biopsy. You can read more about how that works on our treatments page.
Something that needs a specialist. Occasionally a result means the next step belongs with a dermatologist, plastic surgeon or specialist centre. If so, your doctor refers you on and stays across your care.
The part people forget
One biopsy answers one question about one spot. It says nothing about the rest of your skin. If it has been a while since a doctor looked you over head to toe, a biopsy result, whatever it says, is a good prompt to book a full body skin check.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the specific wound care and follow up instructions your own doctor gives you.
When did a doctor last check all of your skin?
Full body skin checks in Bulimba, 15 to 30 minutes, no referral needed. Choose a male or female doctor when you book.