Post-Biopsy Instructions

Wound Care

• Keep the bandage on for 24 hours.

• After 24 hours, follow these steps:

  • Wash your hands before each dressing change.

  • Gently remove the dressing.

  • Clean the site with liquid soap and warm tap water. You can do this in the shower.

  • Pat the area dry with clean gauze.

  • Apply a thick layer of Vaseline or mupirocin (if prescribed by your doctor).

    • You do not want to “air out” your wound. Keep it moist with an ointment at all times.

  • Cover the site with non-stick gauze or a Band-Aid.

  • Change the dressing daily for 2 weeks. Keep the wound covered at all times.

  • Change the bandage if it becomes wet or dirty.

Discomfort

• Mild discomfort is normal. Treat pain early with Tylenol first (acetaminophen):

  • If not contraindicated, take up to 1000 mg every 8 hours as needed.

  • Do not stop your aspirin.

• For any areas of swelling, you may ice the area for 10-15 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours.

Bleeding

• If your bandage becomes soaked with blood, remove and replace it with a clean, dry bandage.

• Use clean gauze or a towel to press firmly on the wound for 30 minutes without lifting or peeking.

• If the bleeding does not stop, call our office immediately.

Activity

• Limit your activity for 24 hours after a biopsy.

• Avoid submerging your wound in baths, swimming pools or a jacuzzi until fully healed.

Infection

• A small amount of redness, swelling, or oozing is normal.

• Call our office immediately if you experience:

  • Fever over 100.4°F

  • Increasing redness, swelling, or tenderness

  • Significant drainage from the wound

• If you had a shave biopsy, your wound will heal naturally from the inside out. You may notice a yellow, sticky tissue called fibrin forming over the area—this is a normal part of the healing process and not a sign of infection.

Emergency Contact

• If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office at 617-540-5570.