Lip Biopsy

[new2sjs2012]

So I go for a lip biopsy next Friday (Jan 11, '13).  What should I expect?

[Tivia]

At the start I was going to have one done to prove to myself, my rheumy didnt need one she said you have it. But me being in denial was going to do it anyway. But after hearing some of the experiences with it I changed my mind. Just make sure the doctor doing it has a lot of experience with them. There are pros and cons to everything, if your doctor will make a dx based on symptoms I would not do it imo.

[caseybluemax]

I had mine performed last August (4 mos ago) and portions of my lip are still numb. Dentist said DR had to dig deep for the 7 glands, and in time the numbness will go away. Good luck!

[MaryBee7]

I didn't need one with a positive blood test and glad. 

[eyeamdry]

I had one and my lip is still numb after 5 years.  Some people say "get the very best dr you can who has done many of these."  Well, of course we all think we pick the best docs.  No one goes on thinking "gee, I think I'll pick a dud for a doc to do this.

No dr can tell you how you will heal from this or any surgery.  Even the most experienced of docs don't know how yours will turn out.  Actually, I shouldn't have needed one done because within days, my blood work came back positive.  If you don't need it for some reason, don't go there.  If you need it to get treatment, well then you have to consider it.  Many of us on here wouldn't do it again, but are reluctant to say so, maybe discouraging someone from having the biopsy.  Lucfy

[CandyBar]

Dear New,

There is a very wide range of experience with the lip biopsy among this group. 

Speaking only for myself:  My experience was good.  The procedure was not painful and it healed easily in a few days with no lasting effects. 

My rheumy wanted it to confirm diagnosis before treatment.  I did not want to keep looking for doctors who might treat me anyway, so I went ahead with the biopsy although I was very afraid to do it.  I was so relieved at how simple it was.  I would not hesitate to do it again if necessary for some reason.

I hope your experience will be one of the easy ones.  Best of luck with it.

[slccom]

Ask your doctor WHY they want the biopsy? Will it change the way you are treated? My guess is that it will not, and I personally would refuse it.
Sharon

[DesignerS]

I just had one a few months ago. It healed up nicely with no problem. A Rheum dr that has been around for a very long time did mine, and he did an excellent job. Just my story:)


Designer