Anal Skin Tag Removal
Are anal skin tags causing irritation or embarrassment? At LuxLipo in Jonesboro, Dr. Desai provides expert, minimally invasive anal (perianal) skin tag removal performed under local anesthesia. The quick outpatient procedure reduces discomfort, improves hygiene and restores confidence with minimal downtime.
What are anal (perianal) skin tags?
Anal skin tags are small, benign flaps of skin that form around the anus. They often result from prior swelling of blood vessels (for example from hemorrhoids), pregnancy, constipation, diarrhea, heavy lifting, or repeated straining. While harmless medically, large or multiple tags can cause itching, irritation, hygiene problems and self-consciousness.
Are you a good candidate?
Anal skin tag removal is appropriate for people who:
- Have one or more skin tags causing discomfort, irritation, hygiene concerns, or cosmetic worries.
- Are in generally good health and able to tolerate a minor outpatient procedure.
- Not suitable without further evaluation: individuals with active anal or perianal infections, uncontrolled bleeding disorders, or certain chronic skin conditions. During consultation Dr. Desai will review your medical history and determine whether additional evaluation (for example, hemorrhoid assessment by a colorectal specialist) is recommended.
Before and after the treatment
The procedure
- Anesthesia: Local anesthetic is used to numb the area for comfort.
- Removal: Dr. Desai will remove the skin tag(s) using the technique best suited to your anatomy—commonly precise excision with radiofrequency for minimal thermal damage, or traditional excision. Hemostasis is secured and closure is performed if needed.
- Duration: Most procedures are brief (often under an hour) and performed on an outpatient basis. Some patients combine removal with another procedure if clinically appropriate.
Recovery & aftercare
- Immediate: You can usually go home the same day. Mild tenderness, swelling or drainage is expected and can be managed with oral pain medication and local wound care.
- Early activity: Most patients resume routine activities within 1–3 days but should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about one week.
- Bowel care: Preventing constipation is important—use a fiber-rich diet, hydration, and stool softeners as recommended to avoid straining.
- Healing time: Complete healing typically occurs over several weeks (commonly ~4–6 weeks). Follow-up visits will confirm proper healing.
Before and after the treatment
Prevention
Reducing risk factors—managing constipation, avoiding excessive straining, and treating underlying hemorrhoids—can decrease the chance of future tags.
Risks & possible complications
While complications are uncommon, any surgical procedure carries some risk, including bleeding, infection, scarring, altered sensation, delayed healing, and the possibility that new skin tags may develop in the future. Dr. Desai will review risks and signs of complications during your visit.
Cost & insurance
Cost depends on the number and size of tags, complexity of removal, and whether additional procedures are performed. Because anal skin tag removal is often considered a minor surgical procedure, coverage varies by insurance plan. We provide detailed cost estimates during consultation and can discuss payment and financing options.
FAQ?
Does the procedure hurt?
Local anesthetic numbs the area so most patients feel minimal pain during the procedure. Mild soreness is common afterward and is controllable with medication and home care.
How long does healing take?
Most patients feel comfortable within a few days; complete healing can take several weeks (commonly 4–6 weeks).
Will there be scarring?
Small scars can occur but techniques used by Dr. Desai aim to minimize visible scarring and optimize cosmetic outcome.
Can anal skin tags come back?
Yes — new tags can develop if risk factors persist (e.g., chronic straining, untreated hemorrhoids). Managing underlying causes reduces recurrence risk.
When can I return to work or exercise?
Many patients return to desk work within 1–3 days. Avoid heavy exercise or lifting for about a week or as advised by Dr. Desai.
When should I see a specialist for hemorrhoids or other issues?
If internal hemorrhoids, bleeding, severe pain, or other anal symptoms are present, Dr. Desai may refer you to a colorectal or GI specialist for further evaluation.