If a mole or lesion looks abnormal, a quick biopsy under local anesthetic tells you whether it is benign or needs treatment. Results in 7–10 days, at Glow Theory in Carlsbad.
Medical dermatology
A skin biopsy is a procedure in which a portion of a lesion on the skin is removed and sent to a pathologist for microscopic analysis. It is typically performed under local anesthesia in a physician’s office. Results are typically available in seven to ten days. At Glow Theory, biopsies are performed by our dermatology team, led by Insiyah Darugar, MSN, FNP.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Sykes, MD, Medical Director · Updated October 12, 2026
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Send us your details and our team will call you to find a time that suits you. Your visit starts with a consultation with our dermatology team, who examine your skin, explain your options and confirm costs before any treatment.
Biopsy of a Skin Lesion
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Biopsy types
A biopsy can be done in several ways:
Punch Biopsy: One of the most common is a punch biopsy. In this procedure, a biopsy is removed from a lesion by using a special punch. The size of the punch used varies depending on the size of the lesion. It is important to choose the appropriate size to obtain adequate tissue for histologic analysis and to minimize disfigurement to the patient.
Surgical Biopsy: Surgical biopsy, on the other hand, involves removing the entire lesion, including deep layers of skin and fat. It may also require a skin graft if the lesion is large.
The process takes 7-10 days for results, with minimal discomfort thanks to local anesthetic. Post-biopsy, we may apply medication or recommend further treatment if needed.
Biopsy Carlsbad
Your providers
Founder & CEO
Insiyah has spent more than 15 years in medical dermatology and aesthetics. She completed a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, affiliated with the Harvard Dermatology Residency, and founded Glow Theory to bring that clinical standard to aesthetic care in Carlsbad.
Medical director
Dr. Sykes is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of practice. He is the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at UC Davis and a Past President of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and has trained many practitioners in facial anatomy and Botox injection technique.
Answered by Insiyah Darugar, MSN, FNP, founder and CEO
Minimal pain, just a brief sting from the local anesthetic.
About 7–10 days, depending on lab processing.
A small mark may remain but fades over time.
We’ll craft a tailored treatment plan immediately and guide you through every next step.
Costs vary by biopsy type and complexity. Medical dermatology visits at Glow Theory are $150–$375; contact us for a personalized estimate.
Anyone with a mole or spot that is new, changing, itching, bleeding or looks different from the rest. A skin cancer screening is a good place to start.
