Skin tag removal
Most skin tags are harmless and do not need to be treated, but you should always have skin tags evaluated if you're not sure what your skin lesion is or if it's irritated and painful.
Find care
Both in-person and virtual visits may be available when you schedule your visit.
Insurance and pricing
Most insurance accepted. Check your coverage or estimate the cost of your visit if you’re uninsured or prefer to pay out-of-pocket.
Looking for info about skin tag removal? Here are the basics and how to get help.
What are skin tags?
Skin tags are small, typically skin-colored growths. They appear individually or in clusters and can be found anywhere on the body, commonly occurring in body folds like on the neck or on the eyelids. Skin tags can range in size from a few millimeters to up to half an inch, and they can vary in texture and color. Most skin tags are harmless, but you might want a skin tag removed if it is irritating or causing discomfort. You might also want it removed for cosmetic reasons.
Getting help
A board-certified provider will assess your condition and offer skin tag removal if appropriate. However, a MinuteClinic provider can’t remove skin tags on the genitals or other sensitive areas, including the face. For larger skin tags, the provider may refer you to a specialist.
1. Prior to scheduling your appointment, you may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit.
2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment.
If you made your appointment online:
Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.
If you made your appointment in the clinic:
Sign in at the electronic kiosk.
3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, a receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.
Skin tag causes and removal
Skin tags usually occur in sites of friction, particularly the armpit, neck, below or under the breasts, and in the lowest folds of the abdomen, near the groin. They become symptomatic and bothersome for many patients when traumatized (e.g., caught on jewelry, rubbed by clothing, scratching). Risk factors for skin tags may include obesity, diabetes and genetics.
The best way to properly remove skin tags is by visiting a medical professional. Skin tags are easily irritated and can bleed a large amount if not removed properly. There are different ways they can be removed. At MinuteClinic, your provider will first explain the multi-step procedure, applying safe and sterile practices, and then use surgical scissors to cut off the skin tag. After a skin tag is removed, there may be some pain and discomfort. This typically goes away after a couple of days, with some risks, including minor bleeding or an infection.
One thing to keep in mind is that skin tag removal is typically considered a cosmetic procedure. Because of this, your health insurance may not cover skin tag removal costs, and you may need to pay the full amount out of pocket.
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.
REFERENCES USED AS SOURCES FOR THIS PAGE:
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1. The Skinny on Skin Tags: 6 questions and answers via Penn Medicine. Accessed 29 August 2024.
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2. Mayo Clinic Q and A: What are skin tags? via Mayo Clinic News Network. Accessed 29 August 2024.