Skin tags are benign skin growths that may cause irritation and affect appearance.

Skin tags, cysts and lipomas are common non-cancerous skin growths that may appear anywhere on the body. While they are typically harmless, these lumps and bumps can become uncomfortable. They may also become irritated or cosmetically concerning over time, especially when located in sensitive or visible areas.

Why should you consider removal of Benign Skin Growths

The procedure may be recommended for several reasons, such as:

Cosmetic concerns, particularly on the face, neck or other exposed areas.
Pain or swelling, especially with inflamed or infected cysts.
Persistent irritation from friction with clothing or accessories.
Uncertainty about the diagnosis, requiring confirmation via excision and histological analysis.

What are the differences between Skin Tags, Cysts and Lipomas?

While often lumped together as “skin growths,” skin tags, cysts and lipomas are distinct conditions. They have different causes, characteristics and treatment approaches. Recognising the differences can help you tell when it is time to seek professional evaluation and removal.

CONDITION	DESCRIPTION	COMMON LOCATIONS	APPEARANCE
Skin Tags	Small, soft, benign skin growths	Neck Underarms Eyelids Groin	Flesh-coloured or slightly darker Hangs off skin
Cysts	Closed sac filled with fluid or keratin	Scalp Face Neck Back	Firm, round bump under the skin It may become inflamed
Lipomas	Benign fatty tumours under the skin	Shoulders Arms Back Thighs	Soft, doughy lump that moves under pressure

How Are Skin Tags, Cysts, and Lipomas Removed?

The treatment approach is tailored to the type, size, location and appearance of skin growth. Generally, the treatment options include:

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is the most common method for removing cysts and lipomas. It involves making a small incision under local anaesthesia to completely excise the growth, including its capsule or wall. This reduces the risk of recurrence and allows the removed tissue to be sent for histological analysis if needed. The wound is then carefully stitched to support optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Electrosurgery
These techniques are commonly used to treat skin tags, especially when they are small or located in cosmetically sensitive areas.

Electrosurgery uses a precise electric current to cauterise and remove the skin tag, resulting in minimal downtime.

Steroid Injections
For inflamed or infected cysts, a corticosteroid injection may be administered to reduce swelling and inflammation. This makes the subsequent excision easier and more comfortable. It may also help reduce the size of epidermal cyst provided it is inflamed. But removal may still be recommended to prevent recurrence.

Incision and Drainage
If a cyst becomes infected with pus, a simple incision and drainage procedure may be needed to relieve discomfort and promote healing. This involves making a small cut to drain the contents of the cyst. While this does not remove the cyst wall, it provides immediate relief and should be followed by complete excision once the inflammation settles.

Lipomas can develop anywhere on the body, including the neck and upper back.

Benefits of Skin Tag / Cyst / Lipoma Removal

Apart from improving cosmetic appearance, removal may offer several additional benefits:

Prevents potential infection or enlargement.
Relieves discomfort, irritation or inflammation.
Quick and minimally invasive procedures.
Quick recovery with minimal downtime.

Who should consider the removal of skin growth?

While skin tags, cysts and lipomas are typically benign, they can cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

You may want to consider removal if:

You have skin growths that are increasing in size or changing in appearance:
Rapid changes can raise concerns. Early evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
You are experiencing irritation, discomfort or pain:
Growths located in high-friction areas, such as under the arms, around the neck, waistband or bra line, may become inflamed due to rubbing against clothing or accessories.
You are concerned about appearance:
Lesions on visible areas like the face, neck or scalp can affect self-confidence. Removal helps restore smoother skin.
You want to avoid future complications:
Without treatment, cysts can sometimes rupture or become infected. Timely excision reduces these risks and supports long-term skin health.

Before initiating the treatment, our dermatologists will examine the skin growths closely to determine the best method of removal.

What Happens During the Removal Procedure?

Any procedure involving your skin deserves careful attention, especially when it comes to comfort, safety and cosmetic outcomes. Removing skin tags, cysts and lipomas is often guided by expert dermatological care. The procedures are evidence-based techniques with a focus on minimal scarring and quick recovery.

Here is what you can expect at each stage:

What to Expect Before Your Appointment

STEPS	PROCESS
Comprehensive Consultation	You will begin with a one-on-one consultation with a dermatologist, who will carefully examine the lesion and discuss your concerns.
Diagnosis Confirmation & Treatment Planning	We will confirm the diagnosis and explain your treatment options, including the procedure, recovery time and expected results.
Pre-Procedure Guidance	Most minor skin removal procedures require no fasting or major preparation. However, if you are on blood thinners or certain medications, we may provide specific advice to temporarily cease them.

What to Expect During the Procedure

STEPS	PROCESS
Local Anaesthetic for Comfort	The treatment area will be gently cleansed and numbed with a local anaesthetic injection, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout.
Safe, Precise Removal	The growth is then carefully removed using sterile techniques such as surgical excision, electrosurgery or incision and drainage. The method chosen depends on the type of lesion.
Quick and Efficient	Most procedures are completed in 15 to 30 minutes and you will be able to go home shortly after.

What to Expect After

STEPS	PROCESS
Simple Dressing	A small dressing or plaster may be applied to protect the wound and promote healing.
Mild After-Effects	Slight swelling, redness or pain around the area is normal and usually settles within a few days.
Clear Aftercare Instructions	You will be given step-by-step guidance on wound care, including when to clean the area, how to manage discomfort and worrying signs to watch for.
Follow-Up for Stitches	If stitches are required, they are usually removed in 5 to 14 days, depending on the location and your skin’s healing rate.

How many sessions do I need?

In most cases, a single session is sufficient to completely remove a skin tag, cyst or lipoma. However, some situations may require additional visits.

If you have multiple growths, we may schedule more than one session to ensure safe and effective removal. In cases where the cyst is inflamed or infected, a staged approach may be necessary, starting with drainage to relieve symptoms, followed by full excision once inflammation has settled.

Follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor healing, remove stitches if used and assess for any signs of recurrence. Rest assured that our dermatologists will discuss a personalised treatment plan during your initial consultation.

Summary

At Dermatology Collective, we understand that even harmless skin growth can cause discomfort, self-consciousness or concern. That is why we offer safe, effective, and cosmetically precise removal of skin tags, cysts, and lipomas that are tailored to your unique skin needs. Our experienced doctors provide personalised, gentle care, ensuring you feel comfortable, and supported every step of the way.

Having a dermatologist remove your benign skin growth will help boost your confidence and self-esteem.

If you have noticed a lump or bump that is bothering you, whether physically or emotionally, we are here to help. Book a consultation with our doctors today, and take the first step towards clearer, and healthier skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are skin tags, cysts or lipomas dangerous?

Most are harmless. However, they may grow, become irritated or mimic more serious conditions. Rest assured that our dermatologists have the expertise to assess them accurately and recommend appropriate treatment.

Will it hurt to have a skin tag, cyst or lipoma removed?

The area will be numbed with local anaesthetic, so most patients have reported little to no discomfort during the procedure.

Can I remove skin tags or cysts at home?

DIY removal is not recommended as it may lead to infection, scarring or incomplete removal. Professional removal that is performed in a sterile environment is always the safest option

Is there a scar after removal?

Any procedure involving the skin may leave a small scar, but we use techniques to minimise scarring and promote smooth healing.

How long is the recovery?

Most patients resume normal activities immediately. However, some minor swelling or tenderness may last a few days.

Will the growth come back?

Complete excision usually prevents recurrence. While new growths may appear in the future, these can also be safely removed.

Is removal covered by insurance?

If the growth causes symptoms or medical issues, it may be eligible for insurance coverage. Cosmetic removals are typically not covered. However, please check with your insurer to confirm your benefits.