Name of the Procedure:

Removal of skin tags, multiple fibrocutaneous tags, any area; up to and including 15 lesions.

Common name(s): Skin tag removal

Summary

Skin tag removal involves the elimination of small, benign growths of skin, known as skin tags or acrochordons. This procedure is commonly performed on multiple skin tags, up to and including 15 lesions, in various areas of the body.

Purpose

Skin tags can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort if irritated by clothing or jewelry. The primary goal of the procedure is to remove these benign lesions for cosmetic reasons or to prevent irritation and potential infection.

Indications

• Presence of multiple skin tags causing cosmetic concerns.
• Skin tags that become irritated or inflamed due to friction with clothing or accessories.
• Skin tags that are painful, bleed, or form infections.

Patient criteria:

• Individuals with benign skin lesions diagnosed as skin tags.
• Patients with up to 15 skin tags that are bothersome or undesired.

Preparation

• Clean the area to be treated before the procedure.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider, such as avoiding certain medications or skin products.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the area with skin tags is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the area.
3. The healthcare provider uses tools such as surgical scissors, scalpels, or electrosurgical devices to remove the skin tags.
4. Each skin tag is snipped off, and any minor bleeding is controlled.
5. The area is cleaned, and a dressing is applied if necessary.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number and size of the skin tags.

Setting

Skin tag removal is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a dermatologist's office.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or trained healthcare provider
• Nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Minor bleeding
• Pain or discomfort during and after the procedure

Rare risks:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Recurrence of skin tags

Benefits

The primary benefits are improved cosmetic appearance and relief from irritation or discomfort caused by the skin tags. Benefits are realized immediately following the removal procedure.

Recovery

• Keep the treated area clean and dry.
• Follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Minor soreness or redness may be expected and should resolve within a few days.
• Avoid strenuous activities that may irritate the treated area for a few days.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if necessary.

Alternatives

Alternative treatments:

• Cryotherapy (freezing skin tags)
• Electrosurgery (burning off skin tags)
• Over-the-counter creams and solutions

Pros and cons of alternatives:

• Cryotherapy and electrosurgery are effective but may cause more discomfort.
• Over-the-counter treatments are less invasive but may take longer to show results and can be less effective.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel slight discomfort from the local anesthesia injection and during the removal of the skin tags. Post-procedure, mild soreness and redness may be experienced but are typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper care.