The Role of Biopsy in Confirming Basal Cell Carcinoma

If you've noticed a spot on your skin that isn’t healing, bleeds easily, or has changed over time, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy. This simple procedure plays a critical role in confirming a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer. At Dr. Dubow Dermatology in Beverly Hills, California, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brian Dubow uses biopsy results to determine not just whether a skin growth is cancerous, but how to best treat it.

Why Biopsy Matters in Diagnosing BCC

Basal cell carcinoma often develops in sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest, and shoulders. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can grow deeper into surrounding tissue if left untreated. 

Many suspicious spots may look like BCC: a pearly bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that won’t heal, but not all of them are cancerous. A biopsy is the most reliable way to determine what you're dealing with. It provides a clear diagnosis of the cancer type and subtype and helps guide treatment decisions.

How a Skin Biopsy Works

A skin biopsy is typically performed right in the Beverly Hills, California, office and takes only a few minutes. Dr. Dubow numbs the area with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Depending on the lesion, he may perform one of the following:

• Shave biopsy – A thin layer of the lesion is shaved off the surface.
• Punch biopsy – A small, circular tool removes a deeper sample of skin, including the lesion and surrounding tissue.
• Excisional biopsy – The entire lesion is removed, often used when the spot is small or highly suspicious.

The tissue sample is then sent to a dermatopathologist, who examines it under a microscope to determine whether cancer cells are present and what type they are.

What Happens After the Biopsy

If your biopsy confirms basal cell carcinoma, Dr. Dubow will discuss the next steps with you. Your options depend on the size, depth, location, and subtype of the cancer. They may include:

• Surgical excision
• Mohs micrographic surgery (especially for facial BCCs)
• Topical treatments or cryotherapy for superficial types
• Targeted therapies for advanced cases

Biopsy results are usually available within a few days. Dr. Dubow takes time to explain the findings in plain language, answer your questions, and help you make informed choices about treatment.

Expert Dermatologic Care in Beverly Hills

If you’re concerned about a spot on your skin, or have already been told you may need a biopsy, Dr. Brian Dubow and his team provide thoughtful, thorough care from diagnosis through treatment. At Dr. Dubow Dermatology in Beverly Hills, California, your skin health is approached with precision, expertise, and respect for your individual concerns.

Call (310) 888-4070 to schedule a skin evaluation or follow up on a biopsy recommendation. Early diagnosis makes all the difference.