A skin biopsy is a medical procedure that involves removing a small sample of skin tissue to be analyzed and examined under a microscope to determine the presence of cancerous or other abnormal cells. There are several methods of taking a tissue sample for biopsies, depending on the size and location of the suspected skin lesion. Early diagnosis is important because skin cancers are among the most common forms of cancer. Early detection and treatment are essential. This article explains how to recover from a skin biopsy.
Steps
Step 1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the area that has been biopsied
Step 2. Remove the bandage or surgical dressing 24 hours after surgery
Step 3. Gently wash the injured area with water using a mild soap without fragrances or dyes
Do not rub or scratch the area. Rinse well and pat dry gently with a clean cloth.
Step 4. Apply a small amount of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly
Step 5. Cover the affected area with a clean bandage or gauze if the wound is large or is in an area touched by clothing
If not, it may not be necessary to keep the biopsy site covered unless your doctor tells you to.
Step 6. Apply petroleum jelly or similar lubricants several times a day to keep the wound moist until it has completely healed
Put on antibiotic ointment if the area becomes dry. The important thing is that a crust does not form.
Step 7. Clean the area following the same procedure at least twice a day until the wound is completely healed
Advice
- There is usually not much pain after a normal skin biopsy. However, if you are in pain, you can take a non-prescription pain reliever like acetaminophen. Applying ice to the area for 10 minutes can also help relieve discomfort.
- It may take several weeks to recover from a skin biopsy. Most heal completely within 2 months.
- Avoid hitting or bumping the area, and do not engage in activities that could cause the skin to stretch, as it could cause the wound to bleed or enlarge, resulting in scarring.
- If sutures have been applied, avoid swimming, bathing, or any other activity that could completely submerge the wound in water. Running water on the area, such as during a shower, should not cause problems.
- Skin biopsies typically leave a small scar, which can be very visible in some people. However, most scars gradually fade over time.
Warnings
- Do not use an antibiotic ointment for more than 3 days as it may cause allergies in some people.
- Call your doctor if the biopsy site becomes red, swollen, painful, hot to the touch or oozes for more than 3 or 4 days after surgery. These may be signs of infection and the use of antibiotics may be necessary.
- Do not drink alcohol and avoid all drugs containing ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, as well as vitamin E and fish oil for 1 week after the biopsy, because these products can increase bleeding.
