- Skin Surgeons Edinburgh
- Waterfront Private Hospital
- 0131 376 2744
Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that commonly appear on the neck, armpits, groin, or other areas where the skin folds. While they are generally benign, many people seek to remove skin tags for cosmetic reasons or because they cause discomfort. This guide explains what skin tags are, why you might want to remove them, and the safest treatment options for effective removal.
Page Highlights
Signs a Skin Tag Needs Medical Attention
What to Expect During Skin Tag Removal
Skin tags are small, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that hang off the skin by a thin stalk. They are made of collagen fibers and blood vessels surrounded by skin and are typically soft to the touch.
Key Facts About Skin Tags:
Common Causes:
•Friction from skin rubbing together.
•Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy.
•Genetic predisposition.
•Obesity or metabolic conditions like diabetes.
Where They Appear:
•Neck, armpits, under the breasts, eyelids, and groin.
Who Gets Them:
Skin tags are common in adults, especially as they age or gain weight.
Although harmless, skin tags may cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns, leading many people to seek removal.
While skin tags are typically harmless, there are situations where a professional evaluation is advisable:
•Pain or Tenderness: Irritation or discomfort caused by friction or repeated snagging on clothing or jewelry.
•Changes in Appearance: If the tag grows, darkens, or changes in shape, it should be assessed to rule out other conditions.
•Bleeding or Infection: Skin tags that are damaged may bleed, become inflamed, or develop an infection.
•Uncertainty About the Growth: A specialist can confirm if the growth is a skin tag or another condition requiring treatment.
If you notice any of these signs, consult a specialist for proper evaluation and care.
Although skin tags are non-cancerous and do not pose a medical risk, many people choose to remove them for the following reasons:
•Cosmetic Concerns: Skin tags, particularly on visible areas like the neck or face, can impact self-confidence.
•Physical Discomfort: Tags in high-friction areas can snag on clothing or jewelry, causing irritation.
•Preventing Infection: Damaged or inflamed skin tags may lead to infections if left untreated.
•Peace of Mind: Removing a tag can provide reassurance, especially if there’s any uncertainty about its nature.
Professional removal is the safest and most effective way to eliminate skin tags, ensuring minimal risk of scarring or complications. Here are the most common options:
•What It Is: Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the skin tag, causing it to fall off over time.
•Best For: Small to medium-sized tags.
•Benefits: Quick, non-invasive, and effective for most skin tags.
•Limitations: May require multiple sessions for larger tags.
•What It Is: The tag is removed using sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel.
•Best For: Large or stubborn skin tags, or those in sensitive areas.
•Benefits: Immediate results with minimal scarring.
•Limitations: Requires a minor surgical procedure.
•What It Is: Heat from an electrical device is used to burn off the skin tag while sealing the wound.
•Best For: Medium-sized tags.
•Benefits: Precise and quick, with reduced risk of bleeding.
•Limitations: Can cause mild discomfort during the procedure.
Skin tag removal is typically a quick and straightforward procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Consultation: Your specialist will assess the skin tag and recommend the best removal method.
2. Preparation: The area will be cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied for comfort.
3. Procedure: The skin tag is removed using the agreed technique (e.g., excision, cryotherapy, or cauterization).
4. Aftercare Instructions: Your specialist will provide guidance on caring for the treated area to ensure proper healing.
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Proper aftercare ensures smooth healing and reduces the risk of complications:
•Keep the Area Clean: Wash gently with soap and water when the dressings are removed.
•Avoid Picking or Scratching: Let the treated area heal naturally.
•Apply Antiseptic Ointment: If advised, use a prescribed ointment to prevent infection.
•Protect From Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen on exposed areas to avoid pigmentation changes.
•Watch for Infection: Contact your specialist if you notice redness, swelling, or discharge.
Read more on our What To Expect page.
In most cases, pathology testing is unnecessary for skin tags since they are benign. However, your specialist may recommend testing if:
•The growth has unusual features or changes in appearance.
•There is any uncertainty about its diagnosis.
Pathology testing ensures the growth is non-cancerous and provides peace of mind.
The cost of removal depends on the size, number, and removal method. At our clinic:
•Consultation Fee: £100.
•Prices Start From: £550.
This includes an expert evaluation, the procedure, and follow-up care.
You should seek professional advice if:
•The skin tag is painful, tender, or frequently irritated.
•It changes in size, color, or texture.
•You are unsure if the growth is a skin tag or another condition.
•The tag is in a sensitive area (e.g., near the eyes or genitals).
•You want safe and effective removal without risk of scarring or infection.
Plastic surgeons are uniquely equipped to ensure the best cosmetic outcome. With their advanced training in skin surgery and aesthetics, they can minimize scarring and deliver a more natural-looking result.
MBChB (University of Edinburgh) FRCS (Plast)
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Waterfront Private Hospital
1 Waterfront Park
Edinburgh
EH5 1SD
Call us: 0131 376 2744
Opening hours: 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday
Skin Surgeons is a trading name for Nassar Healthcare Ltd. Co.No. SC818971.
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