Although harmless, skin tags can be both cosmetically displeasing and annoying. Skin tags can develop in all stages of life and are characterized by a thin, flattish growth that may be up to a half-inch in length and may have a narrow stalk at the base. Skin tags most commonly appear in locations subjected to friction such as eyelids, armpits, the groin, and skin folds.
Skin tags can cause discomfort due to rubbing on neighboring skin, can be caught in clothing and bleed, or become a hindrance to hair removal. Individuals who desire to have skin tags removed have several options at Rao Dermatology.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are thought to be benign tumors of the skin that develop in response to repeated trauma. Most skin tags develop in areas that are subjected to a lifetime of friction, which triggers the skin to repair itself continuously at an extremely high rate. Over time, changes in the replicating skin can convert the normal repair process into a process that results in the development of a growth that extends out of the skin.
These growths are not cancers and typically do not have the capability of developing into cancers. Skin tags affect approximately half of the population over the age of 50 and are more common in overweight and obese individuals.
Surgery
The simplest method for skin tag removal is to have it cut with special medical scissors. Because skin tags can bleed profusely, the cut area can be infected, and scarring can occur if removal is done incorrectly. This procedure should only be performed by a medical professional. Doctor Rao has extensive experience in the safe removal of skin tags for results you can trust.
Freezing
While there are several over the counter remedies that promise to freeze skin tags away, these can damage your skin and sometimes create even more problems. Doctor Rao can freeze skin tags safely and effectively by applying liquid nitrogen and causing them to freeze off cryogenically. This tested and proven technique is completely comfortable for the patient.
Electrosurgery
With electrosurgery, Dr. Rao will use a special instrument that utilizes an electric current to cauterize the skin tag. Essentially, the instrument applies controlled heat to the base of the skin tag, which cuts off its blood supply and seal the blood vessels to prevent bleeding as the skin tag is extracted.
During your consultation, Dr. Rao will assess your skin tags, listen to your preferences, and help you determine which type of skin tag removal treatment is best for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and clear your skin of nuisance skin tags for good.
