Skin tag removal
Edinburgh Waterfront Hospital
Welcome to our Skin Tag Removal service. Skin tags or papillomas, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, skin-coloured growths that typically appear in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. While skin tags are benign and generally painless, they can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort when snagged on clothing or jewellery.
At Waterfront Private Hospital, our team of experienced dermatologists and plastic surgeons specialise in the safe, effective, and minimally invasive removal of skin tags. We understand the importance of medical and aesthetic considerations and are dedicated to providing personalised treatment options to meet your needs.
Overview
Skin Tag Removal
- TYPE OF ANAESTHETIC
Local - LENGTH OF SURGERY
30-45 minutes - HOSPITAL STAY
Walk in walkout - RECOVERY
0-1 week off work
Our skin tag removal services
Our Skin Tag Removal Methods Include:
- Professional Assessment: Careful examination of skin tags ensures the most appropriate treatment approach.
- Various Removal Techniques: State-of-the-art methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), electrosurgery (burning), and surgical excision are used, tailored to the size and location of the skin tags.
- Cosmetic Excellence: Our specialists are skilled in performing these procedures, focusing on minimising scarring and achieving aesthetically pleasing results.
- Comfort and Care: Ensuring a comfortable experience with comprehensive aftercare advice to promote quick healing and optimal outcomes.
Whether you are seeking the removal of a single skin tag or multiple lesions, our team at Waterfront Private Hospital is committed to providing the highest standard of care. We pride ourselves on our patient-centred approach, ensuring that every treatment is conducted with your comfort and satisfaction in mind.
Skin Tag Removal Options
At Waterfront Private Hospital, we provide various effective and safe skin tag removal options tailored to our patient’s needs and preferences. Our experienced dermatologists and plastic surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure medical efficacy and aesthetic satisfaction. Here are the skin tag removal methods we offer:
- Cryotherapy: This involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag. It’s a quick and effective method, especially suitable for small skin tags. The frozen tissue falls off within a week or two post-treatment.
- Electrosurgery (Cauterization): This technique uses an electric current to burn off the skin tag. It’s efficient for removing skin tags with minimal bleeding and is ideal for stalk-like tags.
- Surgical Excision: Our surgeons can cut off larger or more complex skin tags using a scalpel or surgical scissors. This method provides immediate results and is usually performed with local anaesthesia.
Further reading: Skin tags NHS
Before and after skin tag removal
Frequently asked questions
What is Skin Tag Removal?
Skin tag removal is a medical procedure for eliminating skin tags, small, benign growths that typically form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Our waterfront hospital offers safe and effective removal options, including surgical cutting, cryotherapy, and laser treatment.
How Do I Know If I Need My Skin Tag Removed?
If your skin tag is bothersome or irritating or if you’re concerned about its appearance, consult with our dermatology specialists. Removal may be recommended for aesthetic reasons or if it could become snagged by clothing or jewellery, causing pain or bleeding.
Can Removing a Skin Tag Lead to Infections or Complications?
When performed by a qualified healthcare professional, skin tag removal is safe and carries minimal risks. Our team ensures the highest hygiene standards to prevent infection, and we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to support healing.
What Unusual Questions Do People Ask About Skin Tag Removal?
One interesting question we often hear is, “Can skin tag removal improve my overall skin health?” While removing skin tags primarily addresses cosmetic concerns or discomfort, patients may feel a boost in self-esteem and comfort, indirectly promoting better skin care practices.
How Can I Prevent Skin Tags from Forming in the Future?
While it’s challenging to prevent skin tags entirely due to factors like genetics and friction areas, maintaining a healthy weight, managing conditions like diabetes, and adopting a skin-friendly diet may reduce their occurrence. Our specialists can offer personalised advice based on your health profile.
Are There Any Natural Remedies for Skin Tag Removal Recognised by Dermatologists?
While some natural remedies are circulated online, our waterfront hospital’s dermatologists recommend professional removal to avoid potential risks such as scarring and infection. We focus on evidence-based treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How Long Does the Skin Tag Removal Process Take?
The duration of the skin tag removal process depends on the method used and the number of skin tags. Procedures like cryotherapy and laser removal can be completed in minutes, while surgical removal might take longer, especially if local anaesthesia is required.
What Should I Expect During the Recovery Period?
Recovery varies by the removal method. Minor procedures like cryotherapy may require no downtime, while surgical removal might need a few days of care. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions, including instructions on cleaning the area and signs of infection to watch for.
How Can I Schedule a Consultation for Skin Tag Removal?
Visit our Contact Us page or call our front desk to schedule a consultation with one of our dermatology specialists. We’re here to provide you with a comfortable and safe experience, from consultation through recovery.
How Much Does Skin Tag Removal Cost?
The cost of removing up to 3 skin tags is £695.
Page author
Dr. Omar Quaba, MBBChir, FRCS (Plast), GMC 4586300, is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery. Based at Waterfront Private Hospital in Edinburgh, he is fully accredited on the GMC Specialist Register and specialises in advanced cosmetic procedures. Full member of BAAPS.