Skin tag removal at Oris Medical

Skin tags (also known as papillomas) can be very common on the neck and other parts of the body. For both men and women skin tags can be embarrassing or unsightly. They may cause problems catching on clothing or jewelry or interfere with applying make-up or with shaving. There are many different types of skin tags. Most can be removed quickly and easily. After careful examination by an Oris doctor and a detailed review of patient’s history, options can be discussed regarding removal.

How is a skin tag removed?

All Oris treatments follow a detailed pre-treatment consultation. If you decide to proceed with treatment the doctor will make a detailed recording of your medical history and conduct a careful examination of your skin. Skin tags are attached to the skin by a thin stalk. They are removed from the skin by shave excision, cutting at the base with a surgical blade or by cautery. A cautery device heats a fine wire to a very high temperature. This can easily cut through the stalk of the skin tag removing it quickly and sealing the skin as it does so, therefore negating the need for stitches.

For skin tag removal your doctor will offer you local anaesthetic. The base of the tag is injected with a tiny bleb of anaesthetic which numbs the area for the remainder of the procedure. You may experience short lived discomfort rather like a paper cut would give you for a few seconds. You will be able to continue with your normal activities immediately afterwards. A small scab will form at the site of removal. This will heal over a few days, it is important that this is not picked off but the skin is left to heal.

FAQs

Is the removal of Skin tags painful?

A short lived discomfort is experienced but if a patient is worried about it a local anaesthetic can be administered to numb the area and will make the treatment pain free.

How long does the operation take?

The removal of a skin tag is a fairly quick procedure and normally takes around 5 – 10 minutes. If it is likely to take any longer you will be advised of this prior to operation.

How long is the recovery time?

Once the operation is over and the wound has been dressed you will be able to go home and continue with your day. You should not need any down time to recover.

Are there any precautions I need to take after the operation?

Your wound will be dressed appropriately after removal of the tag. You will need to avoid any trauma or knocking to the area and keep the area dry for a few days. Each and every patient is different, so your doctor will give you personal advice for your aftercare.

Will I be left with a scar?

Your surgeon will take into consideration the natural lines of the skin and angle any cut made in the base of the lesion in the way that will give the best cosmetic result. With a shave excision or with cautery a small scab will develop after the skin tag is removed. Under this small scab (which is nature’s own dressing) tissue heals together and contracts leaving a slightly flat reddened area which slowly fades back to a normal skin colour over a few weeks to months.

If a small scar is left, this will almost always be able to be conceal with makeup until fully healed.

Are there any risks or complications involved?

All procedures are performed under strict sterile conditions but there are always rare chances of infection. Should you notice any swelling, excessive redness or pus contact your doctor without delay.