Oral lesions and biopsies
A sore that doesn't heal, a lump or a patch in the mouth, jaw or face: a dentist or physician may send the patient to a surgeon for a biopsy. A small sample, read by a lab, is how anyone learns what it is.
The surgeon looks at the spot, explains what a biopsy involves and takes the sample. A pathology lab reads it, and the surgeon explains the result to the patient and sends a copy to the referring office.
What happens
- 01
Step 1: An examination
The surgeon looks at the spot and, if needed, the scan, and explains what a biopsy involves.
- 02
Step 2: The biopsy
The area is numbed and a small sample is taken. Many biopsies are done at the first visit.
- 03
Step 3: The lab report
A pathology lab reads the sample. The surgeon explains the result to the patient and sends a copy to the referring office.
- 04
Step 4: The next step
Depending on the result, that may be a check later, more treatment here or a referral to another doctor.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
A local anesthetic numbs the area. The surgeon explains the other levels of comfort if the patient wants them.
Anesthesia and comfortOther choices, and waiting
A spot that hasn't healed should be checked, not watched. The surgeon explains what the biopsy can and can't tell you.
Risks and after-care
Soreness, a little bleeding and swelling are common. Infection and numbness near the site are less common. You leave with written after-care instructions and a number to call.
How it is billed
A biopsy is often billed to a medical plan, and the lab bills separately. The desk gives you the estimate for our part in writing.
How fees work
Questions about biopsies
How long does the lab take?
It varies. The surgeon tells you when to expect the report, and the desk calls if it is late.
Does a biopsy mean something is wrong?
No. A biopsy is how a doctor finds out what a spot is, and many turn out to be harmless. The surgeon explains the result.
Who tells me the result?
The surgeon, in person or by phone, and a copy goes to the office that referred you.
Refer a patient for an examination
Care here is provided by oral and maxillofacial surgeons.