Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, benign growths that commonly appear in areas where skin folds or experiences friction. These fleshy protrusions are not cancerous and typically do not pose any serious medical concern. However, they can become irritating or embarrassing, especially when they appear in visible or sensitive areas such as the neck, eyelids, underarms, groin, or under the breasts.
Many individuals seek to have skin tags removed for cosmetic reasons or to relieve discomfort. While home remedies and over-the-counter options exist, minor skin surgery is considered the safest and most effective way to remove skin tags—particularly when performed by a qualified medical professional. In this article, we will explore the safest surgical options available, what to expect during and after the procedure, and why professional removal is superior to DIY methods.
Understanding Skin Tags and Why They Appear
Minor skin surgery for tags are composed of collagen fibers, blood vessels, and surrounding skin. They hang off the body by a small stalk and may range in size from a few millimetres to over a centimetre. Although the exact cause of skin tags remains uncertain, certain factors increase their likelihood, including:
- Obesity
- Age (particularly over 40)
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy (due to hormonal shifts)
- Friction from clothing or skin folds
- Genetic predisposition
While skin tags do not evolve into cancer or cause health issues, they can become snagged on jewellery or clothing, causing bleeding or pain. In such cases, or for purely aesthetic concerns, removal becomes a desirable option.
Why Choose Minor Skin Surgery for Skin Tag Removal?
While you might be tempted to try home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, minor skin surgery stands out as the safest and most reliable method of skin tag removal. Here’s why:
- Professional diagnosis: Before removal, a trained professional can examine the growth to confirm it’s a skin tag and not a mole, wart, or other skin condition that may require further investigation.
- Sterile environment: Surgery is conducted under sterile conditions, reducing the risk of infection or complications.
- Precise technique: Trained practitioners use precise methods that minimize scarring and ensure complete removal.
- Appropriate anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic ensures comfort during the procedure.
- Aftercare guidance: Post-operative care is provided to promote healing and prevent side effects.
Types of Minor Surgical Procedures for Skin Tag Removal
There are several safe and effective minor surgical techniques for removing skin tags. These procedures are generally quick, minimally invasive, and performed on an outpatient basis.
Excision (Surgical Snipping)
This is one of the most common methods for removing skin tags through minor surgery. A sterile scalpel or surgical scissors is used to cut off the tag at its base, often under local anaesthetic.
Advantages:
- Immediate removal
- Suitable for both small and large tags
- Can be performed quickly (in less than 15 minutes)
Risks:
Slight bleeding or minor scarring may occur, but this can be minimized through proper aftercare.
Electrosurgery (Electrocautery)
This technique uses an electric current to heat a wire that burns through the base of the skin tag, simultaneously removing the tag and sealing the blood vessels to reduce bleeding.
Advantages:
- Quick and effective
- Minimal bleeding
- Low risk of infection
Risks:
Mild stinging or redness post-procedure. Rarely, pigmentation changes can occur in the treated area.
Cryosurgery (Freezing)
Cryosurgery involves applying liquid nitrogen to the skin tag using a swab or spray device. The extreme cold freezes the tag’s tissue, causing it to die and fall off within a few days.
Advantages:
- No cutting involved
- Low infection risk
- Suitable for smaller tags
Risks:
Might require multiple treatments. There is a slight risk of blistering or temporary skin discoloration.
Ligation (Tying Off)
In this method, the base of the skin tag is tied tightly with surgical thread, cutting off blood flow. Over several days, the tag dries out and falls off.
Advantages:
- No cutting or burning
- Simple and painless
Risks:
Not suitable for larger or thicker tags. Slow process compared to excision or cautery.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Minor skin surgery for skin tag removal is a straightforward outpatient procedure. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens:
Consultation and Assessment: The clinician examines the growth and confirms that it’s a skin tag. You’ll also discuss medical history, allergies, and the best removal method.
Preparation: The area is cleansed, and local anaesthetic is administered to numb the skin.
Removal: The chosen technique is used to remove the tag. This usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Aftercare: The treated area may be covered with a dressing or left open to air. You’ll receive instructions on keeping the area clean and promoting healing.
Aftercare and Recovery
Proper aftercare is crucial to avoid complications and ensure quick healing. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours.
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and saunas for a few days.
- Refrain from applying creams or lotions unless prescribed.
- Gently wash the area with mild soap and pat dry.
- Avoid scratching or picking at the site to prevent infection or scarring.
In most cases, full recovery occurs within 7 to 10 days. Scarring is minimal to nonexistent when the procedure is done by a skilled professional.
Potential Side Effects or Risks
Although skin tag removal via minor surgery is considered very safe, like all medical procedures, there are a few minor risks:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the site
- Redness or swelling
- Scabbing or slight bleeding
- Rarely, small scars or pigmentation changes
If you notice signs of infection such as pus, persistent redness, or increased pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Cost of Minor Skin Tag Surgery
Costs for skin tag removal through minor surgery vary depending on:
- Clinic location
- Practitioner experience
- Number of tags
- Removal method
In the UK, expect to pay between £75 to £300 per session, depending on how many tags you want removed. NHS treatment is usually not available unless the skin tags are causing medical problems.
Why You Should Avoid DIY Skin Tag Removal
Many home remedies—like dental floss ligation, over-the-counter freezing kits, and tag removal patches—are widely advertised. However, these methods carry significant risks:
- Misidentification: What you think is a skin tag may actually be a mole or wart, or worse, a sign of skin cancer.
- Infection Risk: Lack of sterile tools and environment can lead to infection.
- Pain and Scarring: DIY methods can cause excessive bleeding, irritation, and permanent scarring.
- Ineffectiveness: Tags may grow back if not properly removed.
Seeing a medical professional ensures safety, accurate diagnosis, and peace of mind.
Conclusion
When it comes to removing skin tags, minor skin surgery performed by a trained professional is the safest, most effective route. Whether you choose excision, electrocautery, or cryotherapy, these methods offer quick relief with minimal downtime and low risk.
Avoid the pitfalls of DIY treatments and consult a qualified dermatologist or skin specialist. With proper care, professional minor surgery ensures that your skin stays healthy, clear, and free from unwanted growths—safely and confidently.
If you’re in Leeds or any major city, numerous reputable clinics are ready to help you with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Don’t hesitate to take the next step toward smoother, tag-free skin.
