If you are affected by troublesome skin tags, one of your main goals is to eliminate the problem. Here at High Valley Dermatology, we specialize in dermatology and skin issues such as skin tags. While a skin tag is generally a harmless or benign growth on the skin, it should be examined to rule out any other type of skin problem or disorder. Knowing more about skin tags will help you in deciding what the next step is with care.
What Is A Skin Tag?
A cutaneous skin tag is often referred to as an acrochordon or fibroepithelial polyp. They often occur when the skin rubs frequently together or is irritated on a consistent basis. Acrochordons generally occur in older adults or in people who are overweight or have diabetes. In many cases they are clustered together and there is more than one in the same location. They are often times painless unless the skin becomes twisted or irritated—this is a good indication they need to be removed.
Identification
An acrochordon can be easily identified by resembling a stalk of tissue growth that protrudes out of the skin. They are generally the same color as the skin although some may be darker or contain a pinkish hue. They can range from just a few centimeters in length or they can be large and clearly visible. They can be found on almost any area of the body but primarily the neck, underarms, inner thighs, eyelids and under layers of skin.
Removal
It is important to have one of our qualified dermatologists examine your skin and your skin tag. Any changes in your skin should be noted. There is a risk for skin cancer to form if you have noticed new skin growth, changes in the color of your skin or any other skin abnormalities. Often the recommended course of action is removal so that the tissue can be examined by a pathologist to check for changes in cell structure.
Removal generally consists of a simple surgery such as Cryotherapy or freezing. Cauterization or burning off the tissue may also be used for removal. Both methods are safe with little to no scarring. They can be performed under local anesthetic in our office.
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