Getting Ready for a Lip Biopsy

How is the procedure done?

• The procedure is usually done awake, under local anesthesia.
• Its purpose is to help diagnose Sjögren’s syndrome.
• A small (1 to 2 cm) incision is made on the inside of the lower lip, and several tiny salivary glands are removed. The wound is closed with dissolving stitches.

What are the risks?

Every procedure has risks. We will go over them with you, and you can ask about any of them.

• Pain, bleeding and infection are risks of any procedure.
• Temporary swelling of the lip.
• Incision pain usually lasts a few days and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medicine.
• Not enough tissue for a diagnosis. Sometimes a second biopsy from a different spot is needed.
• Numbness of the lower lip, temporary or permanent.

How do I get ready?

• Before the procedure

  • Give us a list of every medicine, vitamin and supplement you take.
  • If you take aspirin or a blood thinner, tell us. Do not stop it on your own; we will tell you whether you need to.

• Eating and drinking

  • You can eat and drink as usual on the day of the procedure.

• The day of the procedure

  • Bring your photo ID, insurance card and list of medicines.

What happens after the procedure?

• You can go back to work or school and your usual activities right away.
• Eat soft foods for the first few days, then go back to your regular diet.
• Try not to play with the stitches with your tongue, which can make them come out early. If they do come out early, that is OK; the spot may just take a few days longer to heal.
• Your follow-up visit is about 1 week after the procedure, to go over the results.

The Lip Biopsy Recovery Guide has everything you need after the procedure, including when to call us.

When should I call before surgery?