How is it done?

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In most cases, biopsies are carried out under local anaesthesia (an injection into the area to numb it). The injection takes a couple of minutes to work and means that the biopsy will be painless. The biopsy usually leaves a small hole that often requires stitching. In the majority of cases, the stitches used are dissolvable and take around two weeks to disappear.

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Is there much soreness or swelling afterwards?

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When the local anaesthetic wears off after a few hours there is relatively little in the way of pain or swelling. Occasionally, it is necessary to take simple painkillers. Usually, any discomfort only lasts a few days.

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Will there be much bleeding?

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Although there may be a little bleeding at the time of biopsy this usually stops very quickly and is unlikely to be a problem if the wound is stitched. If the biopsy site bleeds again when you get home, cold pressure pack helps. If the bleeding does not stop please contact the health care provider.

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Are there any instructions to be followed at home?

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After the biopsy, be careful not to bite numb areas of your mouth. Also, you should avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously as this may cause bleeding. A day after your surgery, you can clean your teeth normally, including those teeth next to the site of the biopsy. If you find that food catches around the stitches then the area can be gently rinsed with a mouthwash or warm salt water.