Oncology

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Surgery

Also known as: SLNB, sentinel node biopsy, lymph node mapping, melanoma staging biopsy, sentinel node sampling, lymphatic mapping

Checks the first draining lymph node for signs of melanoma spread

Last Updated: October 31, 2026

Surgery Type

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Calculate costfor Standard Dye and Radioisotope Mapping

What happens in this surgery?

A radioactive tracer and blue dye are injected near the melanoma site
Tracer travels through lymphatic channels to the sentinel node
Surgeon locates and removes the marked node(s)
Node tissue is sent for pathological examination
Usually performed alongside the wide local excision

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with a specialist to see if Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Surgery is right for you.

Post Surgery Recovery

What to expect after your procedure

This procedure is usually done as a day case or with a short overnight stay when combined with wide local excision. Most patients resume normal activity within a few days, with any soreness at the injection or incision site settling over 1–2 weeks.

Hospital Stay

1–7 days

Varies by procedure

Initial Rest

1–2 weeks

Light activity only

Follow-up Visit

2–4 weeks

Wound check & review

Full Recovery

6–12 weeks

Back to normal activity

Recovery & Wellness Tips

Inform the care team of any known dye or contrast allergies
Follow fasting instructions if combined with excision under anesthesia
Wear loose clothing near the injection area on the day of the procedure
Arrange transportation home after the procedure

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