Are you considering getting your skin tags removed but wondering about the skin tag removal and how long it takes to heal it? With the right aftercare, skin tag removal sites can heal relatively quickly, within 1-2 weeks.
Getting skin tags removed is a common cosmetic procedure. While usually harmless, these small, soft growths can become irritated by jewellery or clothing and may bleed or become infected. Their appearance may also cause self-consciousness about your appearance. Fortunately, skin tag removal is a simple outpatient procedure.
How Skin Tags are Removed
There are a few methods your dermatologist may use to remove skin tags, showcasing the different techniques of removing skin tags.
Freezing
Liquid nitrogen is applied to “freeze off” the tag. The dead tissue then sheds within 1-2 weeks. This is effective for small tags with thin stalks.
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Burning
An electric current or chemical solution burns through the tag stalk. A scab forms and drops off, allowing new skin to form.
Cutting
Your doctor may snip off the tag with sterile scissors or a scalpel. Bleeding is minimal.
Tying Off
A piece of clean, thin thread is tightly tied around the tag’s base. The lack of blood flow causes the tag to fall off within a few days.
What to Expect During Skin Tag Removal Healing
Healing times vary slightly depending on the removal technique:
- Freezing: The site crusts over and sheds within 7-10 days.
- Burning: A scab falls off within 10-14 days.
- Cutting: The wound fully closes with new skin in 7-10 days.
- Tying Off: The tag drops off in 3-5 days, and the site heals in 7-10 days.
Here’s a more detailed overview of the skin tag removal healing timeline:
Days 1- 3
Expect to see a small, open wound or scab where the skin tag was removed.
- Applying antibiotic ointment and bandages helps protect the site.
- Swelling, redness, and discomfort are common. Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve this.
Days 4 – 7
In this phase, a scab typically forms over the wound and protects new skin growing underneath.
- Scabbing and redness reach their peak around day 5 before starting to improve.
- Keep the area clean and moisturised with petroleum jelly to prevent scab cracking.
Days 8 – 14
During this time span, the outer scab falls off, exposing fresh pink skin, and swelling goes down.
- Apply sunscreen if going outdoors, as the new skin is highly vulnerable to sun damage.
- Do not scratch or pick at scabs during the healing process! This can lead to scarring.
Weeks 2 – 3
At this point, you should see complete outer skin closure, with likely no remaining evidence a skin tag existed.
- Infection risk is minimal by now.
- Use scar creams containing vitamin E, silicone gels, etc, to minimise any lingering redness, irritation or scar tissue.
Aftercare Tips to Promote Healing
- Gently cleanse removal sites daily, then apply antibiotic ointment.
- Use petroleum jelly and keep it covered with a bandage until the scabbing falls off.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed for discomfort.
- Avoid irritating scabs through scratching or rubbing on clothing.
- Wear loose clothing around affected areas if possible.
- Apply sun protection diligently if going outside.
To explore your skin tag removal options with an expert, book a consultation with Dr Shehzadi Tasneem Sultan, the best Plastic Surgeon in Dubai. With advanced training in aesthetics and reconstruction, Dr Sultan provides personalised treatment tailored just for you.
