Scalp Biopsy |
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A scalp biopsy requires two small samples to be taken under local anaesthetic for analysis (each is less than half a centimeter in diameter). The sites will generally heal well to leave a small linear scar, however risks include bleeding, infection, pain (which rarely may be persistent), unsightly scar which may be keloid, raised, dipped or different in texture or colour (lighter, darker or redder compared to the adjacent skin), nerve damage, numbness, burning or pain (which rarely can persist) and pigmentary change. There may be an area of hair loss within the scar. There is a risk that the biopsy does not give a definitive answer.
There will often be blood in the hair following the biopsy you may wish to bring a hat or scarf to cover the scalp. It is advisable not to travel home on public transport alone in case of bleeding. When you attend for surgery you will be asked to sign a consent form. Please read this carefully before the procedure:
If you are using medical insurance to pay for the procedure you need to inform them of the following: A total of two biopsies will be taken (code S1500x2). One of these biopsies is sent for standard histology, the other is divided and sent for histology and immunofluorescence. It is important that you confirm that they are willing to fund the immunofluorescence test.
Important information about skin surgery
- In most cases, a dressing will be in place after the surgery for 48 hours. You should buy a new tub of Vaseline which you will apply after the dressing has been removed.
- If non-dissolvable stitches are used then you will need to attend 7-14 days after surgery for stitch removal. Stitch removal will usually be performed by a nurse.
- You should avoid scheduling surgery within 2 weeks of travel or important events.
- You should avoid vigorous exercise and swimming or hot tubs for at least one week or until the wound is fully closed.
- Depending upon the site you may need to be careful with heavy exercise or lifting for a number of weeks/months to prevent stretching of the scar.
- Avoid exposing the wound to direct sunlight. Once the wound is healed, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the area for at least six months.
- You will always be informed of the results of the biopsy even if it is benign. If you have not received results within 2 weeks of the date of surgery you should contact the practice management team.
- When you attend for surgery you will be asked to sign a consent form (see link below). All surgery carries risks and it important that you read this carefully before the procedure so that you can weigh the risks versus benefits of the procedure.
- You should also carefully read the following postoperative instructions (see link below).
- You will be provided with procedures codes for all planned procedures. To book the procedure please contact my practice management team (contact details below). If you are using medical insurance you should first get authorization for these procedure codes.
- In addition to the fee charged by Dr Lynch there will be a separate fee (usually substantially more) that is charged by the clinic/hospital for use of the theatres +/- pathology.
- If you are paying for treatment yourself, it is important to be sure that you understand the fees due to Dr Lynch and for theatre usage +/- pathology prior to the procedure. If you are using medical insurance it is essential that you have confirmation before the procedure that they have agreed to fund all procedures and fees otherwise you will be liable for these fees.
- All surgery can have complications that may require additional treatments. The costs of any additional treatments are not covered by the fees for this procedure. They will often be covered by medical insurance providers, however you should check this in advance.
