What is a punch biopsy?
A punch biopsy is taken to confirm a diagnosis. Local anaesthetic is injected which stings for a few seconds but then the procedure is painless. A small disc of skin (approximately 4mm) is removed so that it can be examined under the microscope. The wound is either left to heal on its own or a small stitch is used to close the wound. The stitches will be removed in 5-7 days.
A punch biopsy is performed in the minor procedure room in the out-patient department. It takes about 30 minutes.