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According to the National Institutes of Health, skin tags are smooth, noncancerous, fleshy growths. Some are no bigger than a pinhead while others are as large as small grapes. Doctors remove skin tags with cryotherapy or cryosurgery.
The Facts
Skin tags grow anywhere on the body but are most common where skin rubs together or against clothing. Doctors remove skin tags if they are unsightly or uncomfortable.
Treatment
According to the National Institutes of Health, liquid nitrogen freezes the skin, destroying tags, after the skin reaches -20 degrees Celsius.
The Procedure
Cryosurgery is an outpatient procedure, performed in the doctor's office and needs no preparation.The doctor sprays liquid nitrogen on skin tags until the skin turns a frosty white. Pain is slight, but the doctor may minimize discomfort with numbing cream .
Recovery
Mild throbbing and swelling can last a few hours or for several days after your cryosurgery. You may notice temporary or permanent changes in skin color at the treatment site. The doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointment, protecting the site from infection.
Prognosis
Skin tags rarely grow back after cryotherapy, but the surgery does not influence skin tag growth in other areas of the body. New skin tags may grow in other locations.
Alternatives
Depending on other health concerns, doctors may remove skin tags with lasers, creams or electricity.
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