How your dermatologist in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton, FL can help protect your skin
Skin biopsies are a vital tool in the fight against skin cancer and other skin conditions. In fact, skin biopsies are the way to determine whether you have a skin condition, what type of skin condition you have, and how severe it is. A skin biopsy is the first step in determining the most effective treatment to manage or eliminate your skin disorder.
Dr. Timothy A. Nielsen at Nielsen Dermatology offers a full range of cosmetic and medical dermatology services including skin biopsies. He has two convenient office locations in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton, FL to help you.
Skin biopsies are performed three different ways:
- A shave biopsy, which involves using a razor-like tool to shave a section of the top layers of skin, the epidermis and part of the dermis
- A punch biopsy, which involves using a circular tool to punch a small section of skin, including the epidermis, dermis and fat layer
- An excisional biopsy, which involves using a small scalpel to remove part or all of an abnormal area of skin from the epidermis down to or including the fat layer
Skin biopsies are performed to diagnose a number of skin conditions, including:
- Suspicious growths or moles
- Warts, skin tags, or skin infections
- Inflammatory skin conditions including dermatitis or psoriasis
- Skin cancer, including basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma
If skin cancer or another skin disorder is detected, Dr. Nielsen can begin a treatment plan and provide you with different options for managing your condition. Early detection is important. You should do a regular self-check of your skin. Check for moles or abnormal tissue that has changed in size, color, or shape.
There are some other important steps you can take to keep your skin healthy, including always wearing a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 or higher if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Your dermatologist can help keep your skin healthy, and skin biopsies can be an important first step. To find out more about skin biopsies and other dermatology services, call Dr. Timothy A. Nielsen at Nielsen Dermatology, with offices in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton, FL. Call 561-737-4888 for the Boyton Beach office or 561-409-4375 for the Boca Raton location.