Skin Biopsies

Have Your Skin Checked by a Professional

Skin cancer is very common and it can impact the lives of adults of all ages, making it crucial that you’re aware of what to look out for to identify it. Moles, birthmarks, and skin lesions can all be signs of skin cancer, and only a skin biopsy can say for sure.

What is a Skin Biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a series of tests that will be performed on a sample of your skin to determine whether or not you have any medical conditions affecting it. The process is simple, fast, and effective, giving patients answers within a couple of weeks, and often putting their minds at rest about the state of their skin.

What Does a Skin Biopsy Treat?

In most cases, a skin biopsy will be used to check a specific part of your skin for signs of conditions like cancer. Moles and other skin imperfections can be an indication that someone has cancer, but they can also be completely harmless, and their physical appearance isn’t enough to tell you what you’re dealing with. Once a biopsy has been performed, your team will be able to take your results and create a customized treatment plan for you.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Does a Biopsy Work?

Skin biopsies have been designed to be simple for patients. Your doctor will administer a localized anesthetic to numb a portion of your skin before proceeding to remove a sample. This sample will then be passed onto a pathologist with the skills to look for diseases like cancer. Once their tests are complete, you will be called back to your doctor to discuss the results.

How Should I Prepare for My Treatment?

Preparing for a skin biopsy is as simple as making sure that your skin is clean before you go to the doctors. It will also be wise to make sure that you eat something before you visit, ensuring that you can keep a clear head once you leave. Depending on the location of the skin being removed, you may need to ask someone to help you to get home once the biopsy has been performed.

How Long Will My Treatment Last?

Your appointment to have a sample taken will usually take less than an hour or two, but it will take longer for your pathologist to come back with results. In most cases, this will be between 5 and 10 days, though it can take longer in some cases. A skin biopsy will usually be a reactive treatment following a skin cancer screening.

Is There Any Downtime?

While the procedure itself won’t take much time, you will be left with a wound that could take some time to heal. The impact this has will depend on the location of the sample and the way that you use your body, but most people find that they can get back to normal life within a few days of their biopsy.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day.
Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.