After 41 years of dedicated practice, Dr. Cornatzer has retired,
and Bismarck Dermatology Center closed on May 1, 2026.
We are deeply grateful for the trust and support our patients have shown
throughout the years. It has been our privilege to care for this community.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your care.
Medical Records
Brightside Specialty Clinics is now the official custodian of medical records for Bismarck Dermatology Center and will handle all future medical record requests.
To request your records, please contact:
Brightside Specialty Clinics
310 N. 10th Street
Bismarck, ND
Phone: 701-877-2020
Please contact Brightside Specialty Clinics directly for information about its medical-record release process and any required forms.
Your medical records remain secure and will continue to be available in accordance with applicable record-retention requirements.
Payments
Payments may still be mailed to the Bismarck Dermatology Center post office box address listed on your statement.
To make a payment by credit card or HSA card, please mail your payment information to that address. If you do not have a current statement, please include:
-
Patient’s full name
-
Patient’s date of birth
-
Amount to be paid
-
Card number
-
Expiration date
-
Security code
-
Billing ZIP code
-
Signature authorizing the payment
Please do not email credit card or HSA card information.
Shave Biopsy
A small section of skin is removed for examination when there is concern about a skin lesion, mole, or growth that needs to be evaluated for potential conditions such as skin cancer, infections, or other skin disorders.
1
A shave biopsy is often recommended to diagnose:
-
Skin cancer (such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma)
-
Benign growths or skin lesions
-
Infections
-
Rashes or other skin disorders
Your provider will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate diagnostic approach.
2
How does a shave biopsy work?
-
Preparation: The area around the skin lesion is cleaned and a local anesthetic is applied.
-
Shaving the Skin: Your provider will remove a thin layer of skin from the lesion. The amount of tissue removed is minimal, allowing the area to heal quickly.
-
Post-Procedure Care: The site will be bandaged after the biopsy is taken. You will receive instructions for caring for the biopsy site at home and may be advised to avoid certain activities, such as swimming or strenuous exercise, for a brief period after the procedure.
3
Benefits of a
shave biopsy
-
Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is relatively quick, and the local anesthesia ensures that you feel little to no pain
-
Quick Recovery: Most patients experience minimal downtime, with healing occurring within 1-2 weeks.
-
Accurate Diagnosis: The biopsy allows for a definitive diagnosis, guiding appropriate treatment decision.
Is a Shave Biopsy Safe?
Yes, a shave biopsy is a safe procedure. The risk of complication is low, but as with any medical procedure, there may be some minor risks such as infection, bleeding, or scarring. Your provider will supply detailed aftercare instructions to minimize these risks.
When to Seek Care -
-
If you notice any of the following changes in your skin:
-
New growths or lesions
-
Moles or spots that change in size, shape, or color
-
Persistent itching, bleeding, or irritation around a lesion.