How To Have A Mole Biopsy Video

Sometimes you need to have a mole biopsied. There are two ways to have this done. See how in this video.

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See a dermatologist about any skin irregularities
Be careful not to pop punch biopsy stitches
Do not ignore problem moles

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Lisa Rhodes, M.D. received her medical degree from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio, where she graduated valedictorian. She completed her dermatology residency at North Western University in Chicago and currently works in Austin, Texas. Her favorite part of her job is diagnosing skin conditions and treating them in order to help patients live better lives.

DR. LISA RHODES: Hi, I'm Dr. Lisa Rhodes with Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. There are two main ways that we biopsy moles. The first is called the shave biopsy where we numb the skin and then shave the superficial layers of the skin. Usually aluminum chloride or cautery is used to stop the bleeding and then a clean dressing is put on top of there. You leave after the procedure with a little sore that will heal over the next week to two weeks. The second type of biopsy procedure is called the punch biopsy where we numb the skin and then use a device to take a plug of skin, going down into the deeper layers of the skin. In this situation, you usually get a couple of stitches afterwards, and again a clean dressing is applied. When you have a punch biopsy, it is a little bit more important that you take it easy and don't work out that area because you wouldn't want to pop your stitches.

How to Have a Mole Biopsy Video

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