Skin Tags, Cysts, and Benign Growths: What Are They Really?
Key Points
- Skin tags and cysts are benign (non-cancerous) growths that don't require removal unless they bother you cosmetically or physically
- Professional removal is safer and more effective than attempting removal at home
- Multiple removal options exist including surgical excision, laser removal, cryotherapy, and electrocautery
- Recovery varies by removal method, from immediate (no downtime) to one week
- Skin tags and cysts don't become cancerous and won't spread, but they may recur after removal
- Some growths require professional assessment to confirm they're benign before removal
- Insurance may cover removal if the growth is irritated or infected, but cosmetic removal is typically out-of-pocket
Skin Tags, Cysts, and Benign Growths: What Are They Really?
If you've noticed a small flesh-colored tag hanging from your skin, or a firm lump under the surface, you might be worried it's something serious. The good news is that most common skin growths are completely benign (non-cancerous) and harmless. The better news is that they can be easily removed if they bother you.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, we remove skin tags, cysts, and other benign growths regularly. Many patients have been living with these growths for years, not realizing that professional removal is a simple, quick, in-office procedure.
This guide explains what these growths are, why they develop, when removal is necessary, and what your removal options are.
Understanding Common Benign Growths
Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that typically appear on the neck, underarms, eyelids, or skin folds. They're extremely common, especially as people age.
What they are: Skin tags are composed of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels covered by normal skin. They're completely benign and cannot become cancer.
Why they develop: The exact cause is unclear, but risk factors include genetics, obesity, aging, pregnancy, and hormonal changes. Friction from clothing or skin-on-skin rubbing may trigger their development.
Are they dangerous? No. Skin tags are harmless unless they become irritated from friction or pulled repeatedly.
Should you remove them? Removal is entirely cosmetic. You should remove them only if they bother you aesthetically or if they're in an area where clothing constantly irritates them.
Epidermoid Cysts (Sebaceous Cysts)
Epidermoid cysts are firm, round lumps under the skin, usually on the face, neck, back, or scalp. They're typically skin-colored or slightly yellow.
What they are: Cysts form when a hair follicle or skin pore becomes blocked with keratin (a skin protein) and dead skin cells. The material accumulates inside a sac beneath the skin.
Why they develop: Blocked pores are the primary cause. Risk factors include genetics, prior skin injury, and certain genetic syndromes.
Are they dangerous? No, they're benign. However, if they become infected, they can be painful and may rupture.
Should you remove them? Removal is optional unless they're cosmetically bothersome or becoming infected. Do not attempt to pop or drain cysts at home, as this causes infection.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Sebaceous hyperplasia are small, yellowish bumps, usually on the face. They're enlargements of normal oil glands.
What they are: Benign, non-cancerous growths of sebaceous (oil) glands.
Why they develop: More common with age and sun exposure.
Are they dangerous? No, they're completely benign.
Should you remove them? Removal is purely cosmetic.
Lipomas (Fatty Tumors)
Lipomas are soft, movable lumps under the skin, usually on the back, shoulders, arms, or legs.
What they are: Benign tumors composed entirely of fat cells.
Why they develop: Genetic predisposition is the primary factor. They can develop at any age but are more common in middle-aged adults.
Are they dangerous? No, lipomas are always benign and never become cancer. However, they can grow slowly over time.
Should you remove them? Removal is optional unless they're cosmetically bothersome, causing functional problems, or growing rapidly.
Moles and Keratosis
Moles (Nevi) are brown or black spots caused by clusters of pigment-producing cells. Most moles are benign, though some require monitoring for changes.
Seborrheic Keratosis are harmless brown, black, or tan growths with a waxy, scaly appearance. They're extremely common and benign.
Important: If you have any mole or growth that has changed in size, shape, or color, have it evaluated professionally before removal to ensure it's benign.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
You should schedule an appointment if:
You have a new growth you're unsure about. Moles or growths that have changed in appearance (size, color, shape, texture). A skin growth that bleeds, itches, or hurts. A cyst that has become infected (red, warm, painful, draining pus). Any growth bothering you cosmetically and you want it removed. You're uncertain whether a growth is benign or concerning.
Never attempt to remove a growth at home. Home removal attempts risk infection, scarring, and potentially dangerous complications if the growth turns out to be something other than benign.
Skin Tag and Cyst Removal Options
Multiple safe, effective removal methods exist. Your dermatologist will recommend the best option for your specific growth based on location, size, and type.
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision involves numbing the area with local anesthesia and carefully cutting out the growth with a scalpel. This method works for nearly any benign growth and is particularly good for cysts.
Best for: Cysts, lipomas, large skin tags, growths that may need pathology examination.
Downtime: Minimal to none. Some patients have a small bandage or healing wound for several days.
Scarring: Minimal when performed by a skilled dermatologist. Sutures (if used) typically dissolve or are removed after 5-7 days.
Recovery: Most people resume normal activities immediately. Avoid strenuous exercise and swimming for 3-5 days.
Cost: Variable depending on growth size and complexity. Insurance may cover removal if the growth is symptomatic (infected, irritated, etc.), but cosmetic removal is typically out-of-pocket.
Laser Removal
Laser energy vaporizes the growth. This method works well for skin tags and some other superficial growths.
Best for: Skin tags, sebaceous hyperplasia, superficial growths.
Downtime: Minimal. The area may be red or slightly crusted for 1-3 days.
Scarring: Minimal risk with experienced providers.
Recovery: Resume normal activities immediately, avoiding direct sun exposure for the healing area.
Cost: Similar to excision; insurance coverage varies.
Cryotherapy (Freezing)
Liquid nitrogen freezes the growth, causing it to slough off over 1-2 weeks.
Best for: Warts, seborrheic keratosis, and some skin tags.
Downtime: Minimal. The treated area may blister and then peel off.
Scarring: Very minimal risk.
Recovery: Avoid picking at the treatment area as it heals. Resume normal activities immediately.
Cost: Often the most affordable option; insurance may cover it for certain growths.
Electrocautery (Burning)
A specialized electrical device carefully burns away the growth.
Best for: Skin tags and small superficial growths.
Downtime: Minimal. A small scab forms and falls off within 1-2 weeks.
Scarring: Minimal risk.
Recovery: Avoid water and strenuous activity for 24-48 hours. Resume normal activities after that.
Cost: Variable; similar to other in-office removal methods.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Removal
Before Your Appointment
Your dermatologist will examine the growth and confirm it's benign. If there's any question about the diagnosis, a biopsy may be recommended before removal.
No special preparation is needed for most removals. Arrive with clean skin, no makeup if possible. Wear comfortable clothing that won't be irritated by bandages.
During Removal
Local anesthesia is typically applied. You may feel pressure and tugging sensations during excision, but pain is minimal due to the numbing.
The procedure takes 5-20 minutes depending on the growth size and removal method.
Immediately After
The area may be red, slightly swollen, and possibly bleeding slightly (normal). Your dermatologist will apply appropriate wound care.
For most methods, a small bandage is applied that you can remove after 24 hours or as directed.
Days 1-3
Mild redness and swelling are normal. Follow specific aftercare instructions from your dermatologist.
Avoid direct sun exposure. Avoid water if bandaged. Avoid strenuous exercise.
Days 3-10
For excisions, sutures may need removal around day 7. The wound continues healing. Redness gradually fades. Continue sun avoidance and gentle care.
Weeks 2-4
Most removal sites heal completely. Any residual redness fades over weeks to months. Scarring (if any) is minimal and may continue improving for months as the scar matures.
Important: Do NOT Attempt Home Removal
The internet is full of home remedies for removing skin tags and cysts, including tying off tags with thread, using apple cider vinegar, or attempting to lance cysts. These approaches are dangerous for several reasons:
Infection risk: Without sterile technique, removal attempts lead to infection, which can be serious.
Scarring: Improper removal often results in noticeable scars worse than the original growth.
Bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding can occur.
Misdiagnosis: What you think is a benign growth might be something requiring different treatment.
Incomplete removal: Attempting to remove a cyst by popping it leaves the cyst sac, which refills with material.
Professional removal is quick, safe, and worth the investment. Never attempt removal at home.
Will the Growth Come Back After Removal?
This depends on the growth type:
Skin tags: Can recur in the same location or develop elsewhere, but once removed, that specific tag won't return. Genetic predisposition means some people develop new tags over time.
Cysts: May recur if the cyst sac isn't completely removed. Professional excision removes the sac, minimizing recurrence risk.
Sebaceous hyperplasia and keratosis: Don't typically recur in the same location after removal, but new growths can develop elsewhere due to aging and sun exposure.
Lipomas: Can recur in the same location or develop elsewhere if genetic predisposition exists, but each individual lipoma removed is gone.
If a growth recurs, return to your dermatologist for removal.
FAQs About Skin Tag and Cyst Removal
Are skin tags dangerous?
No, skin tags are completely benign and cannot become cancer. They're harmless unless they become irritated from friction.
Can I remove a skin tag at home?
No. Home removal risks infection, bleeding, and scarring. Professional removal is safe, quick, and worth the investment.
Will a cyst go away on its own?
Cysts don't typically resolve without intervention. They may shrink temporarily if they drain, but the cyst sac remains and usually refills.
Can I pop a cyst?
No. Attempting to pop a cyst causes infection, pain, and doesn't remove the underlying cyst sac. The cyst will refill.
How much does skin tag removal cost?
Cost varies by removal method and how many tags are being removed. Typically $200-500 per visit. Insurance may cover removal if the growth is symptomatic, but cosmetic removal is usually out-of-pocket.
How much does cyst removal cost?
Cyst removal costs vary widely depending on size and complexity, typically $300-800. Insurance is more likely to cover cyst removal if it's infected or symptomatic.
Will there be a scar?
Minimal to none when removed by an experienced dermatologist. Any initial redness or scarring typically fades significantly over weeks to months.
How long is recovery?
Minimal for most removals. Most people resume normal activities immediately, with just minor precautions for 24-48 hours.
What if a growth has changed in appearance?
Any growth that has changed requires professional evaluation before removal. Changes could indicate something other than a benign growth, and assessment is necessary.
Is the removed growth checked for cancer?
If there's any concern about the diagnosis, the removed tissue can be sent for pathology examination. Your dermatologist will let you know if this is recommended.
FAQs About Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group
How do you determine which removal method is best for my growth?
During your consultation, your dermatologist will assess the growth's location, size, type, and your preferences, then recommend the most appropriate removal method for optimal results and minimal scarring.
Can you remove multiple growths in one visit?
Yes. Multiple growths can often be removed during a single appointment, making this cost-effective and convenient.
Will insurance cover my removal?
Insurance is more likely to cover removal if the growth is symptomatic (infected, irritated, bleeding). Cosmetic removal is typically out-of-pocket, but we can provide accurate pricing estimates before treatment.
What if I'm unsure whether a growth needs removal?
We can evaluate any growth and discuss whether removal is medically necessary or purely cosmetic. You control the decision about whether to proceed.
What happens if the growth is not benign?
Your dermatologist will assess any questionable growths carefully. If there's any concern, a biopsy can be performed to confirm the diagnosis before removal. If a growth appears suspicious, we'll discuss appropriate next steps.
Do you use sutures that need to be removed?
Removal method depends on the growth. Some methods use dissolvable sutures, while others don't require sutures. Your dermatologist will explain what to expect for your specific procedure.
How long until I see final results?
Immediately after removal, the growth is gone. Healing and scar maturation continue over weeks to months, with final appearance visible around 3-6 months.
What's your scar prevention approach?
We use careful surgical technique, appropriate removal methods for growth location, and proper wound care to minimize scarring. Location of the growth (tension lines, areas prone to scarring) affects healing.
Reclaim Your Skin With Professional Growth Removal
Skin tags, cysts, and other benign growths don't have to be permanent fixtures on your skin. Professional removal is simple, safe, quick, and often has minimal to no downtime.
Whether you're bothered by cosmetic appearance, physical irritation from clothing friction, or infected cysts, professional removal offers fast resolution.
Never attempt home removal. Professional dermatologists have the expertise, equipment, and sterile technique to remove growths safely and beautifully, minimizing scarring and recurrence.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, our board-certified dermatologists routinely remove skin tags, cysts, and benign growths with excellent results and patient satisfaction.
Ready to remove that bothersome growth? Call (480) 666-5568 to schedule your consultation at Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, located at 4550 E Bell Road, Suite 150, Phoenix, AZ 85032. Or visit our contact page to book online. Clear, smooth skin is within reach.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be considered, medical advice. All information, content, and material available on this blog are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author and the blog disclaim any liability for the decisions you make based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
