Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are common, benign growths of skin tissue that appear as small, soft flaps attached to the body by a tiny stalk. They are generally the same color as the surrounding skin or slightly darker and most frequently develop in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. Although they are harmless and non-cancerous, many people choose to have them removed because they catch on jewelry or clothing, cause irritation, or are simply a cosmetic concern. When seeking removal, it is important to choose a professional setting to ensure the procedure is safe, sterile, and yields the best cosmetic result.
Types of Professionals Who Remove Skin Tags
Dermatologists are skin specialists who possess the highest level of expertise in diagnosing and removing skin growths. They are trained to differentiate a harmless skin tag from other, potentially more serious growths like moles or certain types of skin cancer. A dermatologist is the preferred choice for larger skin tags, those located in sensitive areas like the eyelids, or in cases where there are numerous growths.
Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) often handle simple skin tag removals as part of in-office minor procedures. They treat smaller, uncomplicated skin tags in less sensitive areas. Start with your PCP, who can assess the growth and either perform the removal or refer you to a dermatologist if the case is more complex or if they suspect an atypical growth.
Some specialized clinics or med spas also offer skin tag removal. If considering these options, confirm that the person performing the procedure is a licensed medical professional, such as a registered nurse or a physician assistant, operating under a supervising doctor. Verifying the practitioner’s credentials and experience ensures the procedure is performed using sterile techniques and proper medical oversight, minimizing the risk of complications.
Common Methods Used for Professional Removal
Excision involves surgically cutting the skin tag away at its base. A medical professional first applies a local anesthetic to numb the area, then uses sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel to snip the growth. This technique is effective for larger skin tags, though a small stitch may be needed for very large ones.
Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to destroy the tissue. A professional applies liquid nitrogen directly to the skin tag. The skin tag will then darken and typically fall off naturally within ten days to two weeks. Cryotherapy is a quick procedure that requires minimal recovery time, but the immediate result is not visible.
Electrocautery involves using heat generated by an electrical current to burn or dry out the skin tag. A tiny, needle-like device precisely targets the growth at its stalk. This method is effective for smaller tags and offers the benefit of sealing the blood vessels instantly, which minimizes bleeding.
Navigating Insurance Coverage and Costs
Insurance coverage for skin tag removal depends on whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary or purely cosmetic. Most health insurance plans will not cover the cost if the removal is sought for aesthetic reasons. In cosmetic cases, the patient is responsible for the full out-of-pocket expense, which can vary widely based on the number of tags and the location.
Removal may be covered if the skin tag is causing a medical problem. This includes when the tag is frequently irritated, bleeds, becomes infected, or physically obstructs a function, such as affecting eyesight if located on the eyelid. If a medical justification exists, the physician will use specific billing codes when submitting the claim to the insurance provider.
Before scheduling a procedure, contact your insurance provider and the physician’s office to understand coverage. Inquire about whether a diagnosis code for irritation or infection will qualify the removal for coverage. Also, ask the provider for a quote for the out-of-pocket cost if the procedure is considered cosmetic.
Risks Associated with At-Home Removal
Attempting to remove a skin tag at home carries risks. The primary concern is infection, as at-home methods often lack the sterile environment and tools of a medical office. Introducing bacteria to the wound created by cutting or tying off a tag can lead to local infection requiring medical treatment.
Excessive bleeding is a risk, especially with larger skin tags that contain a substantial blood supply in their stalk. Improper technique can result in uncontrolled bleeding that is difficult to stop without professional intervention. Using non-sterile household items like scissors or nail clippers can also cause damage to the surrounding skin, leading to noticeable scarring.
Misdiagnosis is a risk of self-removal, as a growth that appears to be a skin tag could actually be a more serious skin condition. Conditions like seborrheic keratosis, a mole, or even an early form of skin cancer can resemble a skin tag. Removing a potentially malignant growth without a biopsy delays necessary diagnosis and treatment.