If you think you have skin cancer, then it’s important to see a board-certified dermatologist right away. Skin cancer is easily treatable when it’s detected early, and your dermatologist can help you take the right steps to confirming your diagnosis and exploring your treatment options.
Do I Need a Skin Cancer Biopsy?
A skin biopsy is the best way to determine whether a spot on your skin is cancerous or not. You may have noticed signs during a self-check or your dermatologist may have suspicions from looking at a spot during a yearly skin check. However, the only way to be certain if it’s cancer is through a biopsy.
What is a Skin Biopsy?
A skin biopsy is a quick and easy procedure where your dermatologist takes a small sample of a suspected cancerous area on your skin. This sample is assessed under a microscope to determine whether it’s cancerous and what type. From there, your dermatologist can discuss your treatment options and how best to approach your skin cancer treatment.
If you have no symptoms, it’s likely that the skin cancer hasn’t spread. However, your dermatologist may recommend you check in with your regular physician or oncology team to look for other signs and symptoms. Skin cancer becomes more difficult to treat the more it spreads throughout the body, so it’s best to seek care as soon as possible.

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Does a Skin Biopsy Hurt?
Skin biopsies are performed using a local anesthetic and are not painful. Although it can be scary to hear that you may have skin cancer, your dermatologist will take steps to ensure you’re comfortable, informed, and prepared to make decisions about your treatment options.
Schedule an Appointment
Skin cancer requires a fast, accurate diagnosis to keep you healthy and cancer-free. To meet with our team and discuss your options, contact Hamblin Dermatology by calling or filling out our online form.
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