Primary Skin Tag Treatment in Tarzana
Medical Dermatology - Growths / Skin Tags
A skin tag is a common, acquired benign skin growth that looks like a small piece of hanging skin. Skin tags are often described as bits of skin- or flesh-colored tissue that project from the surrounding skin from a small, narrow stalk. At our clinic, we provide skin tag treatment in Tarzana for patients seeking safe and effective removal.
They typically occur in characteristic locations including the neck, underarms, eyelids, and under the breasts (especially where underwire bras rub directly beneath the breasts).
Although skin tags may vary somewhat in appearance, they are usually smooth or slightly wrinkled and irregular, flesh-colored or slightly more brown, and hang from the skin by a small stalk. Early or beginning skin tags may be as small as a flattened pinpoint-sized bump around the neck. Some skin tags may be as large as a big grape. If you are noticing new or changing growths, a consultation with a Tarzana dermatologist for skin growth removal can help determine the best approach.
There are several effective medical ways to remove a skin tag, including removing with scissors, freezing (using liquid nitrogen), and burning (using medical electric cautery at the physician’s office). Our clinic offers professional skin tag removal in Tarzana using safe, in-office techniques tailored to each patient’s needs. Usually small tags may be removed easily without anesthesia, while larger growths may require some local anesthesia (injected lidocaine) prior to removal. Application of a topical anesthesia cream prior to the procedure may be desirable in areas where there are a large number of tags.
For safe, comfortable, and expert skin growth treatment in Tarzana, contact our office today to book now and schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are skin tags?
Skin tags are small, benign (non-cancerous) skin growths that typically appear as soft, flesh-colored tissue attached to the skin by a thin stalk.
2. What causes skin tags to develop?
Skin tags commonly develop due to skin friction, genetics, hormonal changes, or weight fluctuations. They are often found in areas where skin rubs together.
3. Are skin tags dangerous?
Skin tags are generally harmless and non-cancerous. However, evaluation by a dermatologist is recommended if a growth changes in size, color, or shape.
4. Can skin tags go away on their own?
Skin tags usually do not disappear without treatment. Professional removal is the safest and most effective option.
5. How are skin tags removed?
Skin tags can be removed through medical techniques such as snipping with sterile scissors, cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), or cauterization (controlled burning).
6. Is skin tag removal painful?
Most small skin tags can be removed with minimal discomfort. Larger growths may require local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
7. Will skin tag removal leave a scar?
In most cases, skin tag removal leaves little to no visible scarring when performed by a trained medical professional.
8. Can skin tags grow back after removal?
The removed skin tag will not grow back. However, new skin tags may develop in other areas over time.
9. How long does the removal procedure take?
Skin tag removal is typically a quick in-office procedure that can be completed within minutes, depending on the number and size of the growths.
10. Does insurance cover skin tag removal?
Insurance coverage varies. If removal is deemed medically necessary, it may be covered. Cosmetic removal may not be included in all plans. It is best to verify with your insurance provider.