What is a skin tag?
A skin tag is a benign growth that hangs off the skin’s surface by a thin stalk. These common growths contain fat and collagen fibers. They sometimes also contain small blood vessels and nerve cells. They first appear as small bumps, usually the same color as your skin. Some skin tags grow larger, while some stay small. Larger skin tags may get snagged on clothing or jewelry, or become irritated from pressure or friction.
What causes skin tags to form?
Scientists aren’t sure why skin tags form, but they’re most frequently found on areas of your body where your skin folds or rubs together. This includes the neck, eyelids, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. At Physicians Immediate Care we can remove skin tags from most locations except the upper eyelid.
Do skin tags have to be removed?
Skin tags are benign and do not have to be removed for your health. Most skin tags are painless, but many people choose to have them removed due to snagging, or for cosmetic reasons. Occasionally pain and irritation do occur, presenting another reason for skin tag removal.
Some harmful types of skin growths may look like skin tags. If you notice pain, bleeding, color changes or sudden size changes, a physician should examine the growth.
Can I remove a skin tag myself?
It is much safer to ask a medical provider to remove your skin tag. At-home skin tag removal can result in excessive bleeding, infection, skin irritation, and scarring.
Where can I get a skin tag removed?
A general practitioner or dermatologist can examine and remove your skin tag. Physicians Immediate Care has attentive medical providers and convenient hours to remove your skin tag. Visit us for skin tag removal and many other healthcare needs.
How are skin tags removed?
Your medical provider may choose from a few different methods for skin tag removal. These methods minimize bleeding and usually do not result in scarring. At Physicians Immediate Care we treat skin tags with Cantharidin, an agent that causes the skin tag to dry up and fall off. Alternatively, a single skin tag can also be treated with cautery after anesthetizing the area.
What is the healing time after the procedure time?
After Cantharidin it takes about 3 weeks to heal completely. Cautery takes a little less time.
Does insurance cover this service?
Most health insurance plans do not cover procedures that are considered cosmetic. That is why we offer an affordable self-pay pricing option. We recommend contacting your insurance company directly prior to your visit to see if the removal of a skin tag is covered under your specific benefit plan. In some cases, your insurance may cover the removal of a skin tag if there is a medical reason to do so such as irritation or infection.
How much does it cost to remove a skin tag without insurance?
For patients without insurance, who don’t wish to utilize their insurance or the procedure is considered cosmetic by their insurance carrier, the removal of a skin tag would fall under our Care Level 3 pricing click on your location to view cost.