Skin Tag Removal in New York

A skin tag, or acrochordon, is a benign growth that usually appears as a small, soft, flesh-colored, or slightly darker piece of skin that hangs from the surface by a stalk or base. They are most commonly found in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. Skin tags are usually painless but may become irritated if they are rubbed or snagged by clothing or jewelry. Although skin tags are harmless, some people may choose to have them removed if they are bothersome or for cosmetic reasons.

One option for removal is surgical excision, which involves cutting the skin tag off with a scalpel or medical scissors after the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Another option is cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag off. Your board-certified dermatologist will soak a pair of forceps in liquid nitrogen and then pinch the skin tag with the forceps to freeze it off. The frozen skin tag will eventually fall off within a week or two.

Cauterization is another option, which involves burning the skin tag off with a heated device. This method is effective but numbing cream or injections should be used to make the procedure comfortable. Electrosurgery is similar to cauterization but uses high-frequency electrical energy to burn off the skin tag.

While there are over-the-counter products available for skin tag removal, Dr. Rokhsar strongly advises against using them as they are irritating and can often lead to scars. These methods are not as effective as the ones mentioned above, and can potentially cause irritation or harm to the eyelid or other skin areas being treated. It’s best to seek the advice of a board-certified dermatologist.

Skin tags are typically harmless and painless, they can become painful if they become irritated or twisted. This can occur due to excessive rubbing and friction of the skin or from repeated irritation from clothing or jewelry. Skin tags can also become infected, which can cause pain and discomfort.

If you notice sudden or severe pain, bleeding, or changes in the appearance of a skin tag, you should see a board-certified dermatologist to rule out any underlying conditions such as cancerous growths or other skin disorders.

Skin tag removal costs can vary depending on several factors, including the number of skin tags, the location of the skin tags, the method of removal, the expertise of the doctor, and the geographic location of the practice. Consult with a board-certified dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon to determine the most appropriate and cost-effective treatment option for your specific case.