Skin tags refer to tiny skin specks that are usually benign. Skin tags commonly develop on the armpits, neck, and around the eye area. Sometimes skin tags also appear in the genital region.
Most people with skin tags consider removing them especially if they are visible due to being in areas such as the neck or eyes.
Skin tags form in different sizes and colors. While some individuals have just one or two skin tags, others may have multiple skin tags. These specks develop due to genetic reasons or conditions such as diabetes. People who are obese have a tendency to have more skin tags because they have more skin folds.
While skin tags can be excised at home, the procedure should ideally be carried out by an experienced dermatologist. The dermatologist will address any concerns that the patient may have regarding these tags during the initial consultation to enable them to make a well-informed and salient choice.
Devoted board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness provides skin care treatments to patients in Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and surrounding communities and towns in this area of the Midwest.
Skin Tag Removal Procedure
Patients can avail of various available techniques for the removal of unwanted skin tags. The dermatologist will inform the patient of the suitable technique and details on the procedure.
Freezing the Skin Tags Off
In the freezing techniques, the dermatologist uses liquid nitrogen to freeze a skin tag in a process called cryotherapy. The dermatologist will apply liquid nitrogen to tweezers and place on the tag with some pressure. The process may cause slight pain similar to a stinging sensation. The skin tag will not fall off instantly. But will change color and eventually fall off within one or two weeks.
Cutting out the Skin Tag
More significant skin tags may need to be cut off. The dermatologist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and then cut the tag off using a scalpel. This procedure leads to minimal bleeding.
Certain people try to use scissors or nail clippers to remove skin tags by themselves. Such self-help techniques are not advisable as they can lead to infection, pain, and even scarring.
Sometimes the dermatologist may send the skin tag for a biopsy to determine the type of tumor.
Burning the Skin Tags
At times, the dermatologist may employ the burning technique to remove a skin tag. This procedure involves using an electric current to burn the skin tag which will cause a temporary scab. However, the scab will resolve by itself.
Tying off Skin Tags
In this procedure, also called ligation, the dermatologist will stop the blood supply to the skin tag. It usually takes around seven to ten days for the tag to be eliminated. This treatment is quite successful in a majority of cases.
At times, people try this procedure at home by using dental floss or a string. But the knot may come undone. This treatment has an inherent risk of infection. It is advisable for patients not to try ligation at home.
Accomplished board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness receives patients from Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and other towns and suburbs in this region of the country for skin care treatments.
If you would like to learn more about procedures and treatments at Metro East Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jamie L. McGinness please contact us here or call (618) 622-SKIN (7546)
Taking new patients in and around the greater St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois area: East St. Louis Missouri, Shiloh Illinois, Belleville, Millstadt, Saint Clair County, Madison County and more.