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Skin Tag Removal

If small, soft growths on your skin are catching on clothing, irritating your skin, or are affecting your confidence, you may want them removed. Skin tags (also called acrochordons) are benign, but many people choose removal for comfort and cosmetic reasons.


Mr Rikki Mistry, a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in Skin & Reconstructive Surgery, offers safe, effective skin tag removal with personalized care to help you feel confident and comfortable in your skin.


Carpal tunnel release

Understanding Skin Tags

What are skin tags?

Skin tags are small, soft, benign (non-cancerous) growths that hang from the skin’s surface on a thin stalk.


Where do they occur?

They commonly appear in areas of friction or skin folds: neck, eyelids, armpits, under breasts, groin and other skin fold regions.


What causes them?

The exact cause is unknown, but factors include skin rubbing together, hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy), genetics, obesity and insulin resistance (as in diabetes).


Are they harmful?

No, skin tags are harmless and not cancerous. They generally don’t require removal unless they cause irritation, bleeding or cosmetic concern.


When should I see a specialist?

If a skin tag bleeds, changes appearance, becomes painful, or you are unsure if it’s truly a benign tag, a specialist should evaluate it. 



Tailored Care for Every Patient

At consultation, Mr Mistry will:


  • Examine the skin tag(s) and your general skin and anatomy

  • Confirm the diagnosis (tag vs other skin lesion)

  • Discuss options based on size, number, location, and your priorities

  • Explain risks, benefits, and expected outcomes

  • Agree a plan suited to your skin type and goals


Because skin types, locations, and patient preferences vary, removal is not “one size fits all.” Some tags are removed with simple methods; others require slightly more careful technique (especially in sensitive zones like eyelids).



Skin Tag Removal Procedure

Here’s what happens during the removal:


  1. Preparation & cleaning - The area is cleaned and disinfected.

  2. Anaesthesia (if needed) - For many procedures, a local anaesthetic (cream or injection) is used to numb the site.

  3. Removal technique options - Several techniques may be used depending on the tag:

    • Excision (snip / shave) - simple cutting off the tag with sterile instruments

    • Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) - applying extreme cold to destroy the tag

    • Electrosurgery / cauterisation / Hyfrecator - using electrical current to burn and remove the tag while coagulating tissue

  4. If the tag is large or in a sensitive area, a small suture may be needed.

  5. Duration - These are usually brief procedures, often under 15–30 minutes, depending on how many tags are treated.

  6. Post-procedure - The area is dressed; you may leave with a small plaster or bandage. Instructions are given for care.



Recovery and Aftercare

Healing timeline:

Most sites heal in about 7 to 10 days if removal is simple. If stitches are used, healing may take a bit longer.


  • What to expect - Mild redness, swelling, tenderness or scabbing is normal in the first few days.

  • Aftercare tips:

    • Keep the area clean and dry for 3 days

    • Apply any prescribed ointment or antiseptic

    • Avoid picking or scratching the scab - let it fall off naturally

    • Protect from direct sunlight to reduce pigmentation changes for 12 months

    • Avoid friction or tight clothing over the area

  • Watch for complications - If you notice increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus or bleeding that doesn’t stop - contact your surgeon.

  • Scar and pigmentation - Scarring is usually minimal. Some pigmentation changes (lighter or darker) may occur, especially in darker skin tones. Some skins types or areas of the body can prone to lumpy scarring (keloid or hypertrophic) and its best to discuss your risks with your surgeon.



Why Choose Rikki Mistry

Expertise & training: As a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with in-depth knowledge of skin, reconstructive anatomy, and aesthetic outcomes, Mr Mistry performs removals with a refined, safe technique.


  • Personalised treatment - Each removal is tailored to your skin type, tag location, and aesthetic goals to minimise scarring and maximise appearance.

  • Patient-centred care - You’ll receive a clear explanation of options, risks, and recovery. You’ll be guided through every step and supported after the procedure.

  • High standards & safety - Procedures are done in sterile settings, with appropriate anaesthetic, meticulous technique, and attentive follow-up to minimise complications.




 
 
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