What it is:
Excision of a worrisome or changing lesion or bump on or under the skin
Who is a candidate?
People who:
- Have a changing skin lesion (mole, non-healing wound, etc.)
- Are bothered by the appearance or location of a skin lesion
- Have cysts or other masses beneath their skin
Average length of procedure?
* 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the lesion
Type of anesthesia?
Local
Will you need to stay in hospital overnight?
No
How long will you need to take off from work/school?
No time off required, in most cases
What types of restrictions are there after surgery?**
Activity restrictions depend on the location of the skin lesion
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Insurance often covers biopsy of skin lesions that are changing in some way (growing, changing color, etc.)
* Times may vary since each case is unique
** Check with your health care provider about your specific restrictions