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Dermatosurgery
Skin biopsy
A small skin sample taken under local anaesthesia and sent to a lab to confirm a diagnosis.
AnaesthesiaLocal
Time15 to 30 minutes
Healing1 to 2 weeks
ResultWithin days
Why a biopsy may be needed
A skin biopsy helps when a rash, growth or hair loss pattern cannot be diagnosed with certainty by examination alone. It is also used to check moles or growths that look unusual.
The result guides treatment, so the right condition is treated in the right way.
How a biopsy is done
It is a quick, minor procedure.
- Local anaesthetic: the area is numbed
- Sample: a small piece of skin is taken, often a few millimetres
- Closure: a stitch or dressing if needed
- Lab test: the sample is examined by a pathologist
When a biopsy may be advised
A biopsy may be advised for…
- a rash that is not responding as expected
- a mole or growth that looks unusual
- scarring hair loss
- confirming a diagnosis before long-term treatment
Good to know
- tell the doctor about blood thinners
- a small scar may remain
- results take some days
What to expect
1
Before
Tell the doctor about medicines, especially blood thinners.
2
On the day
Local anaesthetic; the procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
3
Afterwards
Simple wound care; stitches, if used, are removed in about 1 to 2 weeks.
4
Results
The report usually comes back within days; the doctor explains it and the plan.
Treatment by Dr. Omkar Warang, DNB
Dr. Warang is a DNB dermatologist who trained at Madras Medical College and GMERS Medical College. He assesses your skin and the cause of your concern before recommending treatment, so the plan suits you.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
More questions? Ask the clinic on WhatsApp.
Is a skin biopsy painful?
The local anaesthetic stings briefly; after that you should feel little.
Will it leave a scar?
Usually only a small mark that fades over time.
Does a biopsy mean cancer?
No. Most biopsies are done to confirm common conditions.
When will I get the result?
Usually within some days.
Related treatments
Have a skin concern checked
A clear diagnosis guides the right treatment.
Visit Warang Wellness
- Monday–Saturday · 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- 4th Floor, Parth Business Plaza, near Valnai Mithchowki Metro Station, Malad (West), Mumbai - 400064
- 90032 89132
- warangomkar@gmail.com
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between individuals and are discussed during your consultation with Dr. Omkar Warang.