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Skin Tags
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Page 1 of 2 Edmonton's Cosmetic Surgery Clinic
Skin Tags – The gift that keeps on giving?
Skin tags are one of the most common skin conditions that afflict us and yet we know little about why they form and how to prevent them. One thing is certain – once you have one of them the chances are that more are coming – it’s like the gift that keep on giving.
What are skin tags?
Skin tags are very common and are often described as skin-colored projections of small piece of hanging skin. They are benign and frequently have small, narrow stalk. Classically, they occur around the neck, underarms, eyelids, and under the breasts. They vary in appearance from smooth to slightly wrinkled. Initially, skin tags start as small, flat or slightly raised pinpoint-sized spot. Skin tags can gradually grow to an impressive size. Some of them can be the size of a grape.
Who can get skin tags?
As mentioned above, skin tags are VERY common. Almost half of the people report having at least one skin tag at some time in their life. They are not present at birth and generally start showing up in adulthood and greatly increase in frequency, as people get older. It appears that skin tags are more common in the areas of friction and, as such, are more common in overweight people. It is thought that hormone elevations, such as those seen during pregnancy, also increase the formation of skin tags, as skin tags are more frequent in pregnant women. In most cases, skin tags are found in otherwise healthy people.
Are skin tags dangerous?
NO. Skin tags are benign and harmless. Occasionally, they can become irritated and inflamed in the areas of friction such as seen around the neck (collar or the shirt) or in the groin. In addition, most people find multiple skin tags unsightly. Skin tag removal for aesthetic reasons is very common. It is important that this not be done at home as there is potential for significant bleeding, infection and scarring. Only qualified medical personnel should remove skin tags. I have seen too many problems with casual removal of seemingly easy to remove skin lesions.
Are skin tags cancers?
Skin tags are a type of growth of tissue, usually skin and maybe some fat, but are completely benign. They are not malignant and have no potential to become malignant. If you have concern regarding your skin tags, it is worthwhile to have them examined by a dermatologist – your skin care expert. Dr. Sapijaszko would be happy to assess you and examine the skin tags making sure they have benign features.
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