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“This article explains that while a primary care doctor can accurately diagnose an anal skin tag, safe removal usually requires a specialist like a colorectal surgeon. It covers common causes, what to expect and modern outpatient options like laser removal.”

Uncovering a new growth on your body can be nerve wracking; however, when it occurs in a sensitive place, the additional stress of that may be even larger still. If you notice a small, sagging patch of skin located in the anal area, chances are good that what you have is an anal skin tag.

With the location being a source of embarrassment for some people, there is a lot of hesitation about going to see a doctor to have their anal skin tag evaluated. This may leave you with questions such as: Who do I go to first? Can my primary care physician help me with my anal skin tag?

The easy answer to the above question is yes. The PCP that you see is going to be your best source of information and diagnosis about your anal skin tag; however, when it comes time to have that skin tag removed by a doctor, you will likely be referred to a specialist for that procedure. By knowing what doctor removes anal skin tags, as well what type of modern medical treatments exist for removal of anal skin tags, you will be able to make educated decisions regarding your self care. 

What Are Anal Skin Tags and What Causes Them?

Anal skin tags are noncancerous skin growths surrounding the anus. They are noncancerous and non-contagious, unlike warts or polyps. They range in size from a grain of rice to a flap of skin and match your skin tone or appear darker.

These tags usually result from localized edema. After swelling subsides, perianal skin typically fails to snap back. A little flap of extra tissue remains.

Several common factors trigger this process:

• Hemorrhoids That Heal: Hemorrhoids are the most common reason a patient develops a skin tag. External hemorrhoids can become engorged with blood and stretch out the skin; when the engorgement goes away with reabsorption of the blood, a skin tag forms on the edge of where the external hemorrhoid was
  

• A Large Hemorrhoid That Heals: Anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus, can result in chronic inflammation that causes a skin tag to form on the edge of the fissure
  

• The Pressure is Increased: Chronic constipation, straining while having a bowel movement, pregnancy or heavy lifting can increase local pressure, stretch the tissue around the hemorrhoid and create a skin tag
  

  
  

Though not harmful growths can present major practical challenges. They collect moisture and feces, making cleanliness difficult. Itching, discomfort and mild bleeding from clothing friction often result.

Can Your Primary Care Doctor Treat Them?

If you have noticed an unusual growth on your body, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first person to see for guidance. Seeing your regular doctor gives them the ability to examine your growth and offer their expertise in a setting that you are comfortable with.

This initial appointment is for your doctor to examine the growth visually. They will next decide if the growth is a skin tag, anal wart, prolapsed internal hemorrhoid or another skin lesion.

If the anal tag is small and mildly bothersome, your doctor may prescribe a topical medicine or diet adjustments to prevent constipation.

Most PCPs don't remove anal skin tags in the office. Blood vessels abound in the anal region, making it hard to keep sterile. Most PCPs lack the instruments, illumination and training to properly perform anal surgery. In an exam room, a PCP cutting or freezing a tag could cause infection, bleeding and poor cosmetic effects. 

What Doctor Removes Anal Skin Tags?

If you choose to have the tissue removed for comfort or cosmetic reasons, your PCP will provide a referral to a specialist. When looking for anal skin tag removal doctors, you will generally encounter a few specific medical fields.

Colorectal Surgeons and Proctologists

These specialists provide the best treatment for this illness. Colorectal surgeons specialize in the lower intestine and perianal area. They know the anus' complicated sphincters. Proctologists perform precise removals, reducing the danger of muscle damage and long term problems.

General Surgeons

General surgeons are highly skilled in a wide variety of soft tissue procedures, including minor skin excisions. If a colorectal specialist is not available in your immediate geographic area, a general surgeon is a common and highly capable alternative for performing the procedure in an outpatient setting.

Dermatologists

While dermatologists are the undisputed experts on skin tags found on the neck, armpits or eyelids, many prefer to refer perianal cases to surgical specialists. Because the care of this specific area overlaps heavily with internal anatomy and bowel function, dermatologists generally only treat external tags that are completely isolated from the anal canal.

How Are Anal Skin Tags Removed?

Once you meet with specialist, they will discuss the best clinical approach for specific anatomy. Modern medicine offers highly effective, outpatient techniques to address the issue.

Surgical Excision

This is a safe and tried-and-true method. The patient receives an injection to numb the area where the doctor will remove the growth, which can be done using a scalpel or special scissors. Using scalpel or surgical scissors, the doctor removes growth by cutting through the base of growth. After removing the growth, the doctor may use small, absorbable stitches to close the wound or leave it open for natural healing. Depending on the size of the wound, stitches or natural healing will be used.

Laser Anal Skin Tag Removal

For patients seeking a modern alternative, laser anal skin tag removal has become highly popular. During this procedure, the specialist uses a focused, high energy beam of light to precisely vaporize the excess tissue. There are numerous benefits of laser anal skin tag removal, including minimal bleeding, micro-precision targeting that protects surrounding tissue and a significantly lower risk of post-operative infection.

Recovery and Aftercare

Aftercare is crucial for good recovery regardless of removal method because the perianal area moves and stretches. Surgery may cause mild discomfort and spotting for a few days.

To ensure proper healing, specialists typically recommend the following protocol:

• Sitz Baths: Using tubs of warm plain water soak for 15 minutes at least two times a day will help cleanse the area and give surrounding muscles time to relax
  

• Gentle Hygiene: You should avoid using harsh dry toilet paper. You should also use a peri bottle filled with warm water for rinsing the area or gently blotting the skin with alcohol free unscented moist wipes
  

• Stool Management: Straining can disrupt the healing tissue and your doctor will strongly encourage you to eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and take an over-the-counter stool softener to make bowel movements as easy as possible
  

Conclusion

Your primary care doctor determines if anal skin tag needs treatment. Determine if the anal skin tag is benign or if it has cause. Next, they must find a doctor who can perform the most comfortable and successful procedure.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It should not replace professional medical diagnosis, treatment or consultation. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition.