10
Apr
2014
10
Apr
2014
Skin tags are a condition where a small area of skin flaps or protrudes. It's important to understand the facts about skin tags. I have removed literally thousands in my career as an aesthetic doctor.
What to Skin Tags Look Like?
This can initially appear as a raised ‘bump’ and gets more noticeable as it develops a ‘stalk’ of skin.
Smaller skin tags are 2-3mm, but they can become 5mm or more, which is known as a ‘papilloma’.
Where Do They Appear?
Skin tags can appear both on the body or face and are particularly common where there is skin friction, such as in the underarms, groin, neck or breasts.
They can also occur in embarrassing and sensitive genital and anal areas.
Are They Infectious?
Medically, skin tags are completely harmless. They are not infectious at all but are a relatively common condition which is likely to affect millions of adults in the UK at some point in their lives.
What Problems Do Skin Tags Cause?
While they are usually of little concern medically, for many of those with skin tags, they can cause irritation, especially where they are prone to catching on clothing or becoming sensitive due to rubbing.
In addition, facial skin tags can cause embarrassment due to their aesthetic appearance. They might appear on the eyelids or neck for example and can be quite noticeable to other people, causing concern to the patient. Skin tags around the eyes can also affect vision.
How Can Skin Tags Be Removed?
Skin tags can be removed relatively quickly and painlessly via cryotherapy (freezing), laser treatment or surgical excision by a skilled doctor who ideally has plenty of experience in the procedure.
Home remedies or solutions available on the internet are best avoided as they can cause infection and/or scarring.
As they are considered a cosmetic issue, there is very little removal of skin tags now offered on the NHS; so private clinics are seeing more and more patients who wish to arrange skin tag removal.
Will It Leave a Scar?
Any skin tag removal procedure is likely to leave some form of scar as the skin is broken and must heal itself.
However, after initial redness, this does fade until most patients have to look hard to see it. Any scarring is generally preferable, in the long term, to the presence of the skin tag itself.
If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together some Skin tags and scarring FAQs just for you.
If you have more questions, you can use the Skin tags and scarring question feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts.
If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited Skin tags and scarring clinics in your area.
Many thanks to the author of this blog Dr Ross Perry who Established Cosmedics Skin Clinics in 2003 in the City of London.
As most of his patients already know, he is very much a perfectionist in all aspects of his work. Ross’s private work consists of minor surgical procedures such as mole, wart and skin tag removal
As well as being an expert in mole removal which offers an extensive range of cosmetic treatments such as botox, dermal fillers, excessive sweating and eyelid lift amongst others.
If you are concerned about moles in London, see how Dr. Ross can help you.
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