Biopsies Upper East Side

Not all eyelid growths are cause for concern, but some require expert evaluation. A biopsy is a simple, safe way to exactly determine what you’re dealing with.

Early Answers Lead to Better Outcomes and Options Upper East Side Eyelid and Periorbital Biopsies

Biopsies are often the first step in diagnosing abnormal skin changes around the eyes. For patients with new, persistent, or changing growths, a biopsy offers clarity and guides treatment decisions. Dr. Allison Coombs, a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, performs eyelid and periorbital biopsies with precision, compassion, and an emphasis on patient education.

With advanced training in both ophthalmology and facial reconstruction, Dr. Coombs ensures that each biopsy is performed safely and with careful attention to preserving the delicate tissues around the eye.

About Biopsies

A biopsy is a minor procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue from a lesion or growth. The sample is then sent to a specialized pathology lab for microscopic examination. This allows for accurate diagnosis of benign, pre-cancerous, or malignant changes in the skin.
Biopsies around the eye are often recommended in the following circumstances:

A growth is new, changing, or persistent.
A lesion bleeds, crusts, or doesn’t heal.
There is eyelash loss or eyelid thickening.
The diagnosis is uncertain without microscopic confirmation.

Why Should You Consider a Biopsy?

A biopsy offers peace of mind and enables timely, targeted treatment when necessary. It helps ensure that conditions like skin cancer are identified early, when they’re easiest to treat.
The benefits of getting a biopsy now include the following:

Accurate diagnosis of suspicious growths
Clear guidance for treatment planning
Early detection of cancerous or pre-cancerous changes
Minimally invasive with little to no downtime
Avoids unnecessary procedures when a growth is benign

Are You a Biopsy Candidate?

If you’ve noticed a growth or skin change around the eyes that hasn’t resolved or seems unusual, it’s worth getting evaluated. Biopsies are low-risk, high-value procedures that provide the clarity you need.

The following are ideal candidates:

Individuals with new or changing eyelid lesions
Patients experiencing persistent skin thickening or irritation
People without bleeding disorders or uncontrolled medical conditions
Non-smokers or those who can temporarily stop smoking

Dr. Allison V. Coombs

Why Choose Dr. Allison Coombs?

Dr. Coombs has extensive experience performing biopsies in the eyelids and periorbital region, one of the most delicate areas of the face. Her background in ophthalmology ensures that the visual system is always protected, while her reconstructive training allows for tissue removal with minimal cosmetic impact.

She is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and ASOPRS, a distinction held by only the most rigorously trained oculofacial surgeons. Dr. Coombs trained at Tufts, Weill Cornell, and MEETH, where she now leads the hospital’s oculofacial plastic surgery division. She is a trusted provider for patients and referring dermatologists throughout the Upper East Side and beyond.

See Dr. Coombs for Your Biopsy Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Coombs will examine the growth or area of concern, discuss your symptoms and health history, and determine whether a biopsy is recommended. She will explain the procedure, what to expect from pathology results, and any next steps depending on the outcome.

Biopsy Procedure Overview

Most biopsies are performed in-office and take less than 30 minutes. The experience is typically quick and well-tolerated. The following is typical of what to expect:

The area is cleansed and numbed with local anesthesia.
A small sample of tissue is removed using a fine instrument or punch.
The site may be closed with a suture or left to heal on its own, depending on the location.
A bandage is applied, and aftercare instructions are provided.
The sample is sent to a pathology lab for evaluation.

After the Procedure

Mild tenderness or swelling is normal for a few days. You may be asked to apply ointment and keep the area clean. If sutures are placed, they’re usually removed in five to seven days. Pathology results typically return within one to two weeks, at which point Dr. Coombs will discuss next steps.

Biopsy Techniques

Shave Biopsy – Surface-level removal using a blade.
Punch Biopsy – Circular tool removes a deeper skin sample.
Incisional Biopsy – Removes part of a larger lesion for testing.
Excisional Biopsy – Removes the entire lesion when appropriate.

FAQ Biopsies

Does a biopsy mean I have cancer?

Not at all. A biopsy is done to determine whether a growth is benign, pre-cancerous, or malignant.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients feel only a small pinch from the numbing injection. The rest of the procedure is typically painless.

Will I have a scar?

Dr. Coombs uses precise techniques to minimize scarring, especially in the highly visible eye area.

How long do results take?

Pathology results are usually available within 7–14 days.

What if the biopsy shows cancer?

Dr. Coombs will discuss all options with you, including surgical removal or coordination with Mohs surgery and post-cancer reconstruction.