3.4.6. Punch Biopsy (Tissue Sample): A punch biopsy is the removal of a small (pencil eraser-sized) circle of skin using a cookie cutter-like instrument. This procedure involves numbing the designated area of skin with lidocaine and the removal of a circle of skin. Prior to obtaining the punch biopsy, the skin will be injected with lidocaine, a painkiller similar to that used by dentists. Although the lidocaine can tingle or hurt briefly during the numbing process, volunteers should not feel any pain while the punch biopsy is being obtained. The circle is then closed using one to five fine stitches per site, which prevents bleeding, speeds healing, and improves the appearance. The stitches are removed 10-14 days later.