Patient Guide for an Oral Biopsy

Q: Why did I need a biopsy?

This is the most important question. When we see a spot or lesion in the mouth that is not healing or has an unusual appearance, the only way to get a definitive, 100% accurate diagnosis is to take a small tissue sample and send it to a specialized medical laboratory. A biopsy is the gold standard for identifying the exact nature of the tissue. This allows us to either confirm that the spot is benign (harmless) or, if necessary, to create a definitive plan for further treatment.

Q: What is the difference between an "incisional" and an "excisional" biopsy?

The type of biopsy we perform depends on the size and nature of the lesion. An incisional biopsy is like taking a small sample or “punch” from a larger spot. The goal is purely diagnostic—to get a diagnosis before deciding on the final treatment. An excisional biopsy is when we remove the entire lesion at once. This is both diagnostic and therapeutic. If the lesion is small and appears benign, this is often the most efficient approach.

Q: What is the process for getting the results, and how long does it take?

We understand that waiting for results is the most stressful part of this process. The tissue sample we took is sent to a specialized laboratory where a pathologist—a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases by looking at tissue under a microscope—will examine it. They will prepare a detailed pathology report with their findings. This entire process typically takes about 10 to 14 days. We will call you immediately as soon as we receive the report and will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results with you in detail.

Q: What happens after we get the results?

The results of the biopsy will dictate the next steps. If the report is benign (harmless), and we performed an excisional biopsy (removed the whole spot), then your treatment is complete. If the report is benign, but we only took a small sample (incisional biopsy), we may still recommend a second, minor procedure to remove the remainder of the lesion. If the report indicates something more serious, it gives us the definitive diagnosis we need to create a plan and refer you to the appropriate medical specialists for comprehensive care.

Surgical Care Instructions

Pain Management

It is normal for the biopsy site to be sore for several days. Managing this proactively is the key to a comfortable recovery.

Standard Protocol: For the first 2-3 days, we recommend a scheduled regimen of 600mg of Ibuprofen AND 500mg of Tylenol (Acetaminophen) taken together every 6 hours. This is highly effective at managing inflammation.
Important Disclaimer: Only take medications as specifically prescribed by our office, considering your unique health history.

Bleeding Control

Minor oozing of blood from the surgical site is normal for the first 24 hours.

Pressure: If you notice active bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure to the area with a piece of moistened gauze for 30 minutes.
Avoid: Do not spit, use a straw, or smoke. Avoid vigorous rinsing, as this can disturb the healing site.

Swelling Management

Minor swelling and bruising are common and expected parts of the healing process.

Ice Packs: For the first 24 hours, you may apply an ice pack to the outside of your face over the surgical area for 20 minutes on, then 10 minutes off.
Peak Swelling: Swelling will be at its worst on the second or third day, after which it will begin to gradually subside.

Oral Hygiene/Site Care

Protecting the surgical site is essential for a comfortable and uncomplicated healing process.

DO NOT pull your lip or cheek back to look at the site. This can tear the delicate sutures.
The “White Patch” is Normal: It is completely normal for the surgical site to develop a soft, white layer. This is not an infection; it is a natural healing bandage your body creates, similar to a scab.
Rinsing: Do not rinse for 24 hours. After that, you may begin gently rinsing with the prescribed medicated rinse or warm salt water after meals. Let the water fall out of your mouth; do not spit.
Brushing: You can and should brush all other teeth normally, but stay completely away from the surgical site until your sutures are removed or have dissolved.
Sutures: Your stitches are typically the kind that dissolve on their own in 5-10 days.

Dietary Recommendations

Stick to a soft, non-chew diet for the first several days.
Do not chew on the side of your mouth where the surgery was performed.
Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate the surgical site.

Activity Restrictions

Avoid all strenuous physical activity, exercise, or heavy lifting for at least 3 days. Increased blood pressure can cause bleeding and pressure at the surgical site.