Shave biopsy used as the most common mole removal technique
There are typically three types of skin biopsy procedures used by a doctor to remove a mole or abnormal skin. They are outlined below:
- Shave biopsy. The doctor uses a sharp tool similar to a razor to remove a small piece of the top layers of skin. This the most common process for mole removal by a doctor. More on how this is used to remove a mole in a doctor’s office.
- Punch biopsy. The doctor uses a circular tool to cut out a small section of skin. This includes including deeper layers of skin and fat under the skin.
- Excisional biopsy. The doctor uses a scalpel to remove a lump or entire area of abnormal skin. This may include some normal skin. The doctor may cut through the fatty layer of skin as well.
More on this topic at the web site run by the Mayo Clinic.