Skin Tag Removal Specialist in Crown Point, IN

While skin tags are generally harmless, they can be a significant cosmetic concern for many individuals. Common skin tag removal methods, tailored to the size, location, and number of skins tags you may have.

• Cryotherapy: One of the most common procedures we perform is cryotherapy. Through this method, we apply liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag, causing it to blister and fall off within a week or two. While it’s a relatively quick and painless procedure, it may require multiple treatments for more stubborn skin tags.

• Surgical Excision: For larger or more complex skin tags, surgical excision might be the best option. Our professional medical team will use a scalpel or scissors to remove the skin tag under local anesthesia, making it a painless procedure. Although this method provides a permanent solution, it may leave a small scar.

• Electrocautery: Electrocautery is another technique we often use. This method involves an electric current to burn off the skin tag while simultaneously sealing the wound to prevent bleeding. It’s a precise and effective method but should only be performed by a medical professional like our experienced dermatologist to avoid leaving a small scar.

• Ligation: Ligation is another option. A thin thread is tied around the base of the skin tag, cutting off its blood supply, which causes it to shrink and eventually fall off. While this method can be done at home, we recommend it be performed in our clinic to avoid potential pain or scarring.

• Over-the-Counter Treatments: Some patients may prefer over-the-counter treatments, such as creams or solutions. We can guide you on the appropriate products and their correct usage to ensure safety and effectiveness. It’s important to ensure these treatments are performed under the supervision of a healthcare professional to prevent complications like infection, scarring, or bleeding.

We prioritize patient comfort, so we apply a local anesthetic or topical numbing cream before any procedure. We also prescribe over-the-counter painkillers or oral pain relievers to manage any unpleasantness after the procedure.

In the rare case that severe pain or discomfort occurs during or after the skin tag removal procedure, our team is ready to provide immediate medical attention. Should an underlying infection or complication arise, additional treatment may be necessary, and we are fully prepared to manage such situations.

It’s important to be aware that skin tag removal, as with any medical treatment, can have potential complications, which can differ depending on the removal method used.

• Cryotherapy (freezing): This procedure may cause temporary discomfort or pain. The treated area may also exhibit mild redness or swelling. In some cases, possible blistering or crusting of the treated area might occur.

• Electrocautery (burning): This method can lead to pain or discomfort during the procedure. Some bleeding might occur, along with scabbing and crusting at the removal site. There’s also a rare risk of scarring.

• Ligation (tying off): This procedure can cause minor pain or discomfort, leading to temporary swelling or bruising. Slight bleeding is possible, and if the ligature is not removed promptly, it could lead to infection.

• Surgical Excision: This method requires local anesthesia. After the procedure, pain or discomfort might be experienced. Although bleeding is usually controlled during surgery, it can occur, and there’s a risk of scarring, which can be minimized with proper wound care.

• General Considerations: All methods may result in temporary skin discoloration, causing the skin around the treated area to either lighten or darken. This effect is usually temporary and should return to normal over time. Rarely, infections or allergic reactions can occur.

In rare cases, there could be nerve damage, especially if the tag is located near a nerve. Indicators of nerve damage can include numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the area where the skin tag was removed.

Furthermore, in some cases, the skin tag could grow back. This is more likely if the tag wasn’t completely removed.

Watch for severe pain, heavy bleeding, or infection symptoms such as redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain around the area where the skin tag was removed. While there are potential risks and side effects, skin tag removal is typically a safe procedure.

One common question we hear is whether skin tags can regrow after removal.

There are several factors that can influence the regrowth of skin tags:

• Removal Method: The technique used for skin tag removal can impact the risk of regrowth. We offer a range of removal methods including electrosurgery, cryotherapy, and laser therapy, which generally have lower recurrence rates than traditional excision (cutting).

• Location: Skin tags located in areas prone to friction or rubbing, like the armpits or groin, may be more likely to reappear.

• Individual Risk: Certain individuals may be more prone to skin tag formation and regrowth due to their health conditions or genetic factors.

Skin tags form due to the overgrowth of skin cells. During removal, these excess cells are eradicated; however, if any cells remain or if the conditions leading to the initial formation persist, regrowth is possible.

To minimize the risk of skin tag regrowth, we advise our patients to:

• Ensure Thorough Removal: Our medical team ensures complete removal of all visible and subsurface skin tag tissue.

• Address Underlying Causes: If a medical condition or hormonal imbalance contributed to skin tag formation, our team can provide treatment to address these factors, thereby reducing the risk of regrowth.

• Avoid Friction: We suggest keeping areas prone to skin tags clean and dry, using lubricants or wearing loose clothing to minimize rubbing and irritation.

• Make Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce skin friction, limiting the formation of new skin tags. Maintaining a regular exercise routine and a balanced diet can support overall skin health, possibly lowering the risk of developing skin tags.

If a skin tag recurs or if you notice any changes in its appearance, size, or discomfort, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Understanding insurance coverage for procedures such as skin tag removal can be challenging. Typically, most insurance companies categorize skin tag removal as a cosmetic procedure, which means it is usually not covered. However, exceptions exist if the skin tag is causing discomfort, irritation, or if there’s any suspicion of malignancy.

If your insurance does not cover skin tag removal, we provide several options to manage the cost, including out-of-pocket payments, medical credit cards, and patient financing plans to help you spread the expense.

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we recognize that insurance policies vary widely. We advise you to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific plan’s coverage. Rest assured, we will provide a medical diagnosis code when billing your insurance to indicate that the skin tag removal was medically necessary.

Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your options for skin tag removal, including both the procedure and any potential financial aspects. We encourage you to consult with our healthcare professionals and your insurance provider for precise information and to discuss available payment options. We serve clients from Crown Point IN, Winfield IN, Schererville IN, St. John IN, Cedar Lake IN, Munster IN, Lowell IN, DeMotte IN, as well as other Northwest Indiana locations.