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Skin tag removal
removing hanging moles · papilloma removal · removing skin growths · acrochordon removal
Soft growths on the skin are removed with radio waves, a laser, electric cautery, or freezing. Usually with local anesthetic.
If a skin tag bothers you, catches on clothes or jewelry, bleeds, or you do not like how it looks.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 30 minutes, depending on how many
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Before removal. First, the doctor looks at the growths and decides how to remove them.
- Skin. Do not tan for 2 weeks before and after. Do not put cream on the area on the day of the procedure.
What to bring
- Your referral or the doctor's report
How it goes
- The skin is cleaned with antiseptic
- If needed, you get a numbing injection or numbing cream
- The doctor removes the skin tags with the chosen method
- A small wound or scab is left on the spot
- Sometimes the tissue is sent to the lab for testing
What you'll feel
- The numbing injection stings for a couple of seconds
- During removal, you may feel warmth or notice a burning smell
Afterwards
- Do not pick the scabs. They fall off on their own in 1 to 2 weeks
- Keep the area clean and dry, as your doctor tells you
- Protect the area from the sun for a few months, to avoid dark spots
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding that does not stop with pressure
- Redness, swelling, pus, or a fever
Common questions
Can I tie off a skin tag with thread at home?
Better not. You can get an infection, and no doctor checks the growth. It is safer to remove it at a clinic.
Will new ones appear?
They can, especially where skin rubs. Removing old ones does not cause new ones.