What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are small, soft, and noncancerous skin growths that hang off the skin. They are born of friction and aging and are typically flesh-colored and painless, composed of blood vessels and loose collagen fibers. Common areas where skin tags grow include the neck, underarms, eyelids, and groin.
Why Do Skin Tags Develop?
Skin tags develop for many different reasons. They are often in the folds of the skin as a result of skin rubbing against itself. Some patients develop them due to genetic, hormonal, and weight changes. They are also linked to insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes because high insulin levels stimulate skin cell growth. For that reason, if you suddenly notice multiple skin tags, you will also want to seek support from a healthcare professional to rule out diabetes if you haven’t already been diagnosed with it or review your medication for existing diabetes patients to ensure the condition is under control.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
While finding one or two skin tags is often perfectly normal, we always recommend seeing a dermatologist if you notice any changes in size, shape, or color, or if the number of skin tags increases significantly. Bleeding, pain, or irritation is another reason to book an appointment with a dermatologist. For growths that resemble moles or other skin conditions, you’ll want to get these checked out by a professional to ensure they really are skin tags. As well as health concerns, cosmetic concerns are another good reason to see a dermatologist if you find you are self-conscious about your skin tags and want them removed to boost your confidence and improve your appearance.
Professional Skin Tag Removal Options
There are multiple options for professional skin tag removal in Nashville, TN. These are some of the most popular and effective options a dermatologist may offer you:
- Cryotherapy – Freezing the skin tag off with liquid nitrogen
- Cauterization – Using heat to remove the skin tag safely
- Surgical Removal – A quick in-office excision procedure for larger skin tags
Our team will discuss with you the best option for your skin tag removal based on the number of skin tags you have and the size of the tags you wish to remove.
Does Skin Tag Removal Hurt?
Most skin tag removal procedures are minimally uncomfortable. For more sensitive areas, numbing will reduce the pain of the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is normal, and you can expect a quick recovery.
How Long Does Removal Take?
Most skin tag removal procedures are very quick, taking only a few minutes during a visit to our office. The exact time of the procedure will depend on the size, number, and location of the skin tags, and our team can advise you about this treatment time ahead of your appointment.
What to Expect After Skin Tag Removal
Skin tag removal has a short healing time, with the area fully healing within one to two weeks. Keep the area clean and protected while it heals. You can expect slight redness and a small scab to form after the procedure, but this wound will heal quickly. Watch out for redness or signs of infection after the procedure, and go back to your dermatologist immediately if you do have any concerns about infection.
Can Skin Tags Grow Back?
Skin tags that are removed usually do not return after proper removal with one of the procedures we’ve shared above. Keep in mind that new skin tags can develop over time, and you may need further procedures if you decide to remove them.
Why You Should Avoid DIY Skin Tag Removal – Can Skin Tags Be Removed at Home?
We never recommend removing skin tags at home as there is an increased risk of infection, scarring, bleeding, or damage to healthy skin. If you just go ahead and remove a skin tag without consulting a dermatologist, there is also a risk of misdiagnosing another skin condition. Some growths that appear to be skin tags to the untrained eye may actually require medical evaluation and treatment. Professional treatment is safer and more effective, and, as it is a quick, easy in-office procedure, we always recommend working with a dermatologist for skin tag removal in Nashville, TN.
Skin Tag Removal in Nashville, TN
Working with a dermatologist for your skin tag removal will offer you a wide range of benefits. Our team offers personalized treatment options for patients in Middle Tennessee and Nashville, working to ensure we provide the best treatment for your unique concerns.
Are you looking for more information about skin tag removal in Nashville, TN? Schedule an appointment today with Curcio Dermatology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are skin tags dangerous?
Skin tags are typically harmless, noncancerous skin growths, but many people choose to remove them because of irritation, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns. If a skin tag changes color, shape, or size, you should schedule an evaluation with a dermatologist.
How long does skin tag removal take?
Skin tag removal usually takes only a few minutes during an in-office appointment. The exact treatment time depends on the size, number, and location of the skin tags being removed.
Will insurance cover skin tag removal?
Medical insurance often does not cover skin tag removal because it is generally considered a cosmetic procedure. However, insurance may provide coverage if the skin tag is causing pain, bleeding, irritation, or other medical concerns.
Can skin tags be removed at home?
Dermatologists do not recommend removing skin tags at home due to the increased risk of infection, bleeding, scarring, and damage to healthy skin. Professional skin tag removal is safer and helps ensure the growth is properly diagnosed.
Is skin tag removal permanent?
Once a skin tag is professionally removed, it usually does not return. However, new skin tags may develop over time due to aging, friction, hormonal changes, or genetic factors.
Does skin tag removal hurt?
Most professional skin tag removal procedures involve minimal discomfort. Depending on the treatment area, a dermatologist may use numbing medication to improve comfort during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is normal and temporary.
What should I expect after skin tag removal?
After skin tag removal, you may notice slight redness or a small scab as the area heals. Most patients recover within one to two weeks with proper aftercare, including keeping the area clean and protected from irritation.
