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Understanding a Skin Biopsy

When necessary, at Aesthetic Dermatology, your provider may recommend and perform a skin biopsy to analyze and better understand your underlying skin condition. Our physicians and physician assistants work closely with board certified dermatopathologists to help make an accurate diagnosis.

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Understanding a Skin Biopsy

What is a Skin Biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a quick, in-office procedure that removes a small sample of skin for microscopic evaluation. Our dermatology team selects the most appropriate technique – shave, punch, or excisional – based on the lesion’s appearance and location. A board-certified dermatopathologist examines the tissue to identify rashes, infections, and cancers with precision.

How is a Biopsy Performed?

  • Comfortable Numbing: The area is cleansed and numbed to ensure comfort throughout.
  • Precise Sampling: Using shave, punch, or excisional techniques, a small specimen is taken from the target site. The sample is preserved and labeled for accurate laboratory processing.
  • Pathology Review: A board certified dermatopathologist examines the tissue and documents findings in detail.

Wound Care After a Biopsy

  • Simple Care: Tiny sites often heal on their own with daily vaseline application and bandaid for 1-2 weeks
  • Stitches: Many biopsies need a few stitches for closure.
  • Advanced Closure: Larger sites may require layered sutures or local tissue movement to optimize healing and appearance aftercare.

Our team prioritizes function and aesthetics while ensuring diagnostic completeness every step of care.

Common Questions About Biopsy & Pathology Services

Find answers to common questions about skin biopsy and pathology, timing, comfort, and recovery here.

How long do biopsy results take?
Turnaround varies by test complexity. Many routine biopsies return within 1 week; specialized stains or cultures can extend timing. We share results as soon as they’re finalized and outline next steps with our patients.
Will a biopsy leave a scar?
All procedures can leave a small mark. We minimize scarring by using the least invasive method that achieves a complete diagnosis, and we place sutures to support healing whenever needed.
Is a biopsy painful?
Most patients feel only a brief pinch from the anesthetic. Afterward, tenderness is mild and managed with over the counter pain relief and simple wound care.
How long does recovery take after a biopsy?
Healing times vary by site and technique. Many shave biopsies heal within a week; sutures are removed in 7-14 days, with activity guidance to protect result.

Why Choose Aesthetic Dermatology Associates?

01. Precision and Expertise
Board-certified clinicians and dermatopathologists coordinate seamlessly for accurate sampling and interpretation, minimizing repeat procedures and uncertainty.
02. Comprehensive Support
Comprehensive Support: From consent to results, we guide you with clear communication, personalized plans, and ongoing coordination with your other providers.

Board-Certified Dermatologists

We Are Skin Cancer Treatment Experts

Highly Skilled Dermatologists

Our biopsy and dermatopathology teams combine meticulous technique with clear communication to deliver confident, actionable diagnoses for patients and clinicians

A Commitment to Patient Care

At Aesthetic Dermatology, your comfort, understanding, and outcomes come first. We explain options, set expectations, and remain available to discuss results and next steps in detail clearly.

Take the First Step Toward a Confident Diagnosis

If you need a skin biopsy or have questions about a lesion, schedule a consultation with Aesthetic Dermatology. We’ll provide a thoughtful evaluation and timely pathology review so you can move forward confidently.

Visit Our Locations

Media, PA

Mon: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Tue: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Thu: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Fri: 7:30 am - 3:15 pm

Paoli, PA

Mon: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tue: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wed: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thu: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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Book Your Appointment Today!

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Prefer to speak with someone? Call or text us:

Media, PA Office - Call or Text (610) 566-7300

Paoli, PA Office - Call or Text (610) 647-4161

Want to book online now? Select a provider below:

Book with Dr. James Ko in Paoli

Book with Bridget Lolli, PA-C in Paoli

Note: Self-scheduling is currently available for Dr. Ko & Bridget Lolli. For all other providers, please call or text the office.