Frequently Asked Questions - Skin tag cautery

Cautery is the removal of unwanted tissue either by using an electrical current passed through the skin cells to kill them and then dissect the tissue away, or in my case I use a cautery pen which has a very fine "blade" on the end that heats up.  This tip gets very hot (1,200 degree centigrade) and burns the skin tag away at the base.

Not really, but depends on your individual pain threshold.  I don't use local anaesthetic as injecting this is actually more painful that the procedure itself.  I can offer numbing cream for those who are unsure.

Small skin tags that have a very small stalk/base.  This is not suitable for skin lesions that are flatter and more adhered to the skin.

Yes as I treat such tiny areas.  Make sure you follow any aftercare instructions given.

Occasionally you will find that some skin tags appear to grow back.  What I've found to be the case with my NHS patients is that they have developed another skin tag, adjacent to the previous one.  Unfortunately if you have a lot of skin tags then you may find that you will develop more in the future.

The most common side effect reported by my clients and patients is itching for a few days after the procedure.  DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SCRATCH THE AREA!  This can lead to infection which could lead to scarring. 

If you find the areas to be itchy treat it like a bite or sting and apply an antihistamine or antiseptic cream.

Contact me.  I will take a look and provide appropriate treatment and advice.  If necessary I can provide a private prescription if I feel you need oral antibiotics.  This would be free of charge.

Absolutely.  There are no contraindications for this procedure.