Skin Tags
Skin tags are benign skin growths that appear to be soft, hanging pieces of skin. They are common and harmless, but can be irritating and make people feel self-conscious. Skin tags can be inherited, or develop due to increased weight or other unknown causes. Both men and women are prone to developing skin tags. They vary in size and commonly develop under the breasts, at the base of the neck, underarms, groin folds and eyelids.
Generally, treatment is not necessary, but skin tags may be cosmetically removed. If treatment is desired, there are several options available that can be performed in our office.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are one of the most common types of harmless skin growths. They most commonly appear on the face, chest, shoulders or back as black, brown or pale growths with a scaly, somewhat elevated appearance, sometimes mimicking a mole.
The cause of seborrheic keratosis is unknown, but research has shown that the possibility of developing these growths increase with age. Heredity also plays a role in developing seborrheic keratosis.
While seborrheic keratosis can resemble skin cancer, it does not become cancerous. These growths are normally painless and do not require treatment. However, if you desire to have the growth removed, this can be done in a simple elective cosmetic visit.
Sebacious Hyperplasia
Sebacious hyperplasia is a common condition that occurs in middle aged or older adults. This benign condition affects the sebaceous glands (oil glands) and causes single or multiple small, yellowish lesions to develop, most commonly, on the face. In some instances, sebaceous hyperplasia can develop on the chest, mouth, scrotum, foreskin, shaft of penis and vulva.
While treatment isn't really necessary for these growths, we do offer treatments for cosmetic removal.