Our bodies do strange things sometimes. The growth of skin tags is a peculiar occurrence that we often have no control over. These strange little growths are typically harmless but can be annoying and cause discomfort. Skin tag removal is advised in those situations and can be offered here at McLean & Potomac Dermatology. Schedule your consultation at one of our offices today to learn more about the procedure.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are tiny benign growths that often occur where there is friction on the body from clothing, jewelry, or movement. These bumps can appear to be flesh-colored or darkly pigmented. People of all ages can develop skin tags, but these growths are more common in adults. Studies also show there is a genetic tendency to develop skin tags if other family members have them. More skin tags may develop as you age.
Common places where skin tags occur:
- Neck (where necklaces or shirt collars touch the neck)
- Chest (particularly under the breasts of women)
- Underarms
- Eyelids
- Groin
Why Have Skin Tags Removed?
Skin tags are harmless but can sometimes get irritated when they rub against clothing, jewelry, or other materials. Treatment is unnecessary, but they can be treated in the office if removal is desired. Skin tags are removed by cutting or burning them off.
Is Skin Tag Removal Permanent?
Skin tag removal is not covered by insurance because it is not considered medically necessary, and is, therefore, considered a cosmetic (elective) procedure. Once removed, the skin tag does not usually regrow after removal, but new skin tags may form on other parts of the body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are skin tags, and what causes them to form?
Skin tags (medically known as acrochordons) are small, soft, benign growths that hang from the skin by a thin stalk. They most often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, eyelids, underarms, groin, and beneath the breasts. While they are harmless, they are commonly triggered by friction, aging, hormonal changes during pregnancy, and conditions like diabetes. Any new or changing growth should still be evaluated by a dermatologist to confirm it is not something that requires further attention.
What should I expect during a professional skin tag removal procedure?
Skin tag removal is a quick, in-office procedure customized to the size and location of each growth. Depending on your specific case, our providers may snip the tag with sterile surgical scissors, freeze it off with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy), or remove it using electrocautery. Smaller tags often require no anesthetic, while a local numbing agent can be applied for larger ones or sensitive areas to keep you comfortable. The entire treatment is fast, and most patients return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Will skin tags grow back after they have been removed?
Once a skin tag is professionally removed, that specific growth is gone for good and will not return in the same spot. However, removal does not prevent new skin tags from forming elsewhere, especially if you are naturally prone to them or have ongoing friction in certain areas. Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing skin-on-skin rubbing can help limit new growths, and any that do appear can be safely removed during a routine follow-up visit.
Schedule Cyst Removal in McLean, VA, or Potomac, MD
Skin tag removal is a straightforward procedure to help you get the spotless skin you deserve. These treatments are handled by our experienced providers and typically require no downtime or extended treatment process. Learn more by scheduling your appointment with our dermatological team.
You can start by messaging us on this site to set up your consultation or by calling us at (703) 356-5111.
