A tongue biopsy may sound like a scary procedure, but it’s not that bad.
Here’s what you need to know:
Your dentist will check your mouth for abnormalities or signs of oral cancer. If you have an abnormal growth or lesion, you’ll most likely get a referral to an oral surgeon for a tongue biopsy.
What is a tongue biopsy? A tongue biopsy is when a surgeon removes a small piece of tissue from your tongue to examine it more closely.
Don’t worry, and the procedure isn’t too painful. You may experience discomfort during and after the biopsy, but it shouldn’t be too bad.
What to expect after a tongue biopsy
A tongue biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the tongue’s surface for examination under a microscope. Tongue biopsies are often performed to diagnose oral cancer or other diseases of the tongue.
The area where the biopsy was taken will be sore and may bleed slightly for a few days after the procedure. You may also experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort when swallowing. You should avoid eating solid foods for the first few days after the biopsy and drink plenty of fluids. Soft foods and liquids will be easier to swallow.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on caring for the biopsy site and when to return for follow-up appointments. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Why would you have a biopsy on your tongue?
There are many reasons why your doctor may recommend a tongue biopsy, but the most common reason is to investigate whether you have oral cancer. Oral cancer can occur on any part of the mouth, including the tongue, so a biopsy may be recommended if your doctor sees any suspicious lesions on your tongue during a routine examination.
Other less common reasons for a tongue biopsy include investigating other diseases of the tongue, such as infections or inflammatory conditions. In some cases, a biopsy may also be performed to remove a benign (non-cancerous) growth from the surface of the tongue.
What happens during a tongue biopsy?
A tongue biopsy is usually performed in your doctor’s office or an outpatient clinic. The procedure is generally quick and easy, and you can go home the same day.
First, your doctor will numb the area around your tongue with a local anesthetic. This will help to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. Next, a small piece of tissue will be removed from your tongue using a scalpel or another sharp instrument. The biopsy sample size will depend on why the procedure is being done. In most cases, only a tiny piece of tissue is needed.
Once the biopsy sample has been taken, it will be sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope. Your doctor will usually receive the results within a few days.
What are the risks of a tongue biopsy?
A tongue biopsy is generally a safe and quick procedure with very few risks. The most common complication is bleeding from the biopsy site, which can usually be controlled with pressure and ice. There is also a small risk of infection, but this can be minimized by following your doctor’s instructions for care after the procedure.
In rare cases, damage to the nerves that control the movement of the tongue has been reported after a tongue biopsy. This can cause temporary paralysis of the tongue, but this is usually temporary and will resolve on its own within a few weeks.
Overall, tongue biopsies are safe and effective procedures that can provide important information about the health of your tongue. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, discuss them with your doctor beforehand.
How painful is a tongue biopsy?
Most people report only minor discomfort during a tongue biopsy. The local anesthetic numbs the area around your tongue, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. You may experience some soreness and tenderness afterward, but this can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. Swelling and bruising are also common after the procedure, but these should resolve within a few days.
If you have any concerns about pain or discomfort during or after a tongue biopsy, discuss them with your doctor beforehand.
How long does it take to heal from a tongue biopsy?
Most people recover quickly from a tongue biopsy with only minor soreness and discomfort. The biopsy site usually heals within a week, but it may take longer for the swelling and bruising to resolve completely. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for the biopsy site and when to return for follow-up appointments. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Tongue biopsy recovery tips
When you have oral surgery, it is essential to follow the post-operative instructions closely to ensure a quick and smooth recovery.
Here are some steps to take care of yourself after an oral biopsy:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Both of these activities can delay healing.
- Eat soft, bland foods for the first few days after surgery. This will help minimize discomfort and allow your mouth to heal properly.
- If you experience any pain or swelling, contact your dentist immediately.
These simple steps will help you recover quickly and avoid complications after an oral biopsy.
