Skin Tag Removal
Introduction
Skin tags are small, benign skin growths that can be removed through a process called skin tag removal. Skin tags are prevalent and typically not harmful, but they can be unsightly or uncomfortable, especially if they are in an area where they are frequently irritated, like the neck, under the arms, or in the groyne. Skin tag removal is a straightforward process that is frequently completed without hospitalisation. Before trying to remove skin tags, it is essential to have them examined by a dermatologist because some growths may require a biopsy to exclude skin cancer or other more serious conditions.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of skin tag removal depends on the method used to remove the tag.
- Excision: Using a scalpel or shears, the skin tag is surgically removed using this technique. The region is first numbed with local anesthesia, and the skin tag is then removed. Inflammation and tissue repair will cause the wound to heal.
- Cryotherapy: This technique involves applying liquid nitrogen to the skin tag to freeze the tissue, which eventually dies and falls off.
- Cauterization: Using a weak electrical current, the skin tag is seared off using this technique. The pathophysiology of cauterization includes heating up the skin tag’s tissue and destroying it.
- Ligation: In this technique, the blood supply to the skin tag is severed by firmly wrapping a string or suture around the base of the growth.
Signs and Symptoms
After skin tag removal, it is common to experience some mild symptoms. The symptoms may vary depending on the method used for skin tag removal and the individual’s skin type and overall health. Here are some common symptoms of skin tag removal:
- Pain: If the skin tag was excised or cauterized, pain is a typical side effect after removal.
- Swelling: After removing a skin tag, swelling may happen, particularly if the tag was excised or the region was cauterised.
- Bleeding: If the skin tag was excised or the region was cauterized, there may be minor bleeding during and after the removal of the skin tag.
- Discoloration: There may be a chance of discoloration after skin tag removal, depending on the procedure used.
- Infection: There is a slight possibility of infection following the removal of a skin tag, especially if the region is not kept dry and clean.
How do Dermatologists treat Skin Tag Removal?
Some of the methods that dermatologists commonly use for skin tag removal:
- Excision: In this technique, the dermatologist cuts out the skin tag with a scalpel or shears. A local anaesthetic is used to numb the region before the skin tag is surgically removed. The wound is then sutured shut or allowed to recover naturally.
- Cryotherapy: This technique involves the dermatologist freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, causing the tissue to die and slide off over time.
- Cauterization: The physician burns off the skin tag using a weak electrical current in this technique.
- Ligation: The dermatologist ties a string or suture firmly around the base of the skin tag in this technique to stop the blood flow to it. Eventually, the flesh tag will come off.
- Surgical snipping: The dermatologist cuts the skin tag off with sterile medical shears in this technique. There may be no need for anaesthesia with this technique.
- Laser removal: In this technique, the physician removes the skin tag using a laser in this technique. For larger skin tags or those that are in delicate regions, this technique is frequently employed.
The dermatologist might advise using an antiseptic cream on the region to stop infection after removing the skin tag. They might also offer guidelines on how to treat the area and when to take off any bandages or sutures. The region might be a little sore or tender for a few days, but this usually goes away on its own. To reduce the risk of complications and ensure proper healing, it is crucial to adhere to all post-procedure directions given by the dermatologist.
