A temporal artery biopsy is a specialized diagnostic procedure that involves removing a small segment of the temporal artery—located at the temple region of your head—for laboratory examination. At our practice, we understand that procedures involving your head can feel particularly concerning. That's why we're committed to providing gentle, expert care while helping you through your diagnostic journey and treatment. This focused outpatient procedure helps diagnose giant cell arteritis (temporal arteritis), an inflammatory condition that can lead to serious complications including vision loss if left untreated. We perform temporal artery biopsies using microsurgical techniques with enhanced magnification that allow for smaller incisions while obtaining adequate tissue samples. Our approach combines rapid scheduling for urgent cases with meticulous attention to incision placement within the hairline or natural skin creases, ensuring both timely diagnosis and optimal cosmetic results.
You may need a temporal artery biopsy if you experience:
New-onset, persistent headaches, particularly in the temple region
Scalp tenderness, especially over the temporal arteries
Unexplained fever and fatigue with elevated inflammatory markers
Vision changes, including blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss
Prominent, tender, or nodular temporal arteries
Pain while chewing or pain in the shoulders and hips
Symptoms not responding to initial treatment
Significantly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP)
Age over 50 with unexplained systemic inflammation
Weight loss and loss of appetite accompanying other symptoms
Morning stiffness in the shoulders and hip girdle
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to temporal artery biopsy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with careful mapping of the artery's course, often using ultrasound guidance to identify the most appropriate segment for sampling. What sets us apart is our surgeon's expertise in obtaining adequate specimen length (typically 2-3 cm) while using microsurgical techniques that minimize tissue disruption. We coordinate closely with rheumatology and ophthalmology specialists to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment, often accommodating urgent cases within 24-48 hours when vision is potentially at risk. Our distinctive approach includes specialized closure techniques using subcuticular sutures and tissue adhesives that promote minimal scarring, along with continuous communication with your referring physician to ensure that appropriate treatment begins promptly once results are available—often while maintaining already-initiated steroid therapy to protect your vision during the diagnostic process.
Immediate Post-Procedure (24-48 hours)
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
Keep the incision site clean and dry
Take prescribed pain medication as directed (discomfort is typically minimal)
Continue any prescribed steroids exactly as directed by your physician
Watch for signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, drainage)
Avoid touching the incision site
Rest and avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours
You may shower after 24 hours, gently patting the incision dry
Monitor for any unusual symptoms and report them promptly
Short-Term Recovery (1-2 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment for suture removal (typically 5-7 days after the procedure)
Continue keeping the incision site clean, applying ointment if recommended
Resume normal activities gradually as comfort allows
Avoid direct sun exposure to the incision to minimize scarring
Begin scar care as recommended once the incision is fully closed
Continue all medications prescribed by your physician, including tapering steroids if applicable
Report any new symptoms related to your underlying condition
Mild numbness around the incision is normal and typically improves over time
Most patients can return to work within 1-3 days depending on their occupation
Pathology results are typically available within 3-5 days
Long-Term Expectations
The incision typically heals with minimal scarring, often becoming nearly invisible over time
No functional deficits are expected as collateral circulation compensates for the removed artery segment
Follow-up with rheumatology is essential based on your diagnosis
If giant cell arteritis is confirmed, long-term management with rheumatology will be necessary
Periodic monitoring of inflammatory markers may be recommended
Most patients experience no long-term effects from the biopsy procedure itself
Hair regrowth around the incision site typically conceals any remaining scar
Regular follow-up with ophthalmology may be recommended to monitor vision
Complete resolution of the incision appearance typically occurs within 3-6 months
Long-term management focuses on the underlying condition rather than the biopsy site
Common Side Effects
Temporary pain or discomfort at the biopsy site
Mild bruising or swelling around the incision
Small, well-healed scar that typically fades over time
Temporary numbness around the incision site
Mild bleeding that stops with gentle pressure
Sensitivity at the temple area while healing
Less Common Complications
Infection at the biopsy site (occurring in less than 1% of cases)
Hematoma (collection of blood under the skin)
Injury to branches of the facial or auriculotemporal nerve causing temporary numbness
Wound dehiscence (opening of the incision)
Hypertrophic or keloid scarring in susceptible individuals
False-negative biopsy result (sampling error)
Scalp necrosis (extremely rare)
Allergic reaction to local anesthesia (rare)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
Spreading redness beyond the incision site
New or worsening vision changes
Significant swelling that extends beyond the biopsy site
Opening of the incision with tissue exposure
Severe headache that differs from your previous symptoms
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.