Skin Biopsies: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Skin Biopsies?
A dermatologist usually performs skin biopsies. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin, hair, and nails. Some family doctors and nurse practitioners also do simple skin biopsies in their offices. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A skin biopsy is a procedure where a doctor removes a small piece of skin, called a sample, which is examined under a microscope. A special doctor called a pathologist studies body tissues and reports what they see.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Doctors use skin biopsies to learn what is causing a rash, a growth, a sore that will not heal, or a spot that looks unusual. The test can show signs of infection, inflammation, or skin cancer.
How to prepare
Before the procedure, your doctor will give you instructions. Common ones include the following.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, especially blood thinners.
- Mention any allergies, including allergies to numbing medicine or bandages.
What happens during it
Most skin biopsies take about 15 minutes. The doctor cleans the skin and injects a numbing medicine; you should feel only pressure, not pain. A shave biopsy scrapes off a thin top layer of skin. A punch biopsy uses a small round tool to remove a deeper circle of skin. An excisional biopsy cuts out the whole growth with a scalpel. The sample is sent to a lab, the wound is closed with stitches if needed, and a bandage goes on top.
Recovery
You can usually go back to normal activities the same day. Keep the bandage on for about a day, then keep the area clean and covered until it heals. Stitches, if you have them, usually come out in one to two weeks.
Risks and side effects
Serious problems are uncommon. Possible side effects include bleeding, bruising, pain, and infection at the site. Some people develop a scar. Call your doctor if you see spreading redness, pus, heavy bleeding, or fever.
Who performs it
Dermatologists perform most skin biopsies, especially for complex or suspicious spots. In some cases, a surgeon may remove larger growths.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance. A concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type can evaluate skin problems, perform simple biopsies, and manage follow-up care. For a suspicious mole or a diagnosis of skin cancer, they would refer you to a dermatologist.
Common questions
Does a skin biopsy hurt?
The numbing shot may sting for a few seconds. After that, most people feel only pressure or tugging. Any soreness afterward is usually mild.
How long do results take?
Results often come back within one to two weeks, but timing varies. Some tests take longer if the lab runs extra stains. Ask your doctor when to expect a call.
Will I have a scar?
Shave biopsies usually leave a small flat mark. Punch and excisional biopsies can leave a small scar. Scarring differs from person to person.
Can the biopsy miss something?
Biopsies sample only a small area, so there is a small chance the sample does not show the whole problem. Doctors sometimes repeat a biopsy if results do not match what they see on the skin.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
