Evaluation and Removal of Benign Skin Growths in Meridian, ID
As we age, it’s common to develop harmless skin growths such as seborrheic keratoses and skin tags. Although these growths are noncancerous and usually don’t require treatment, they can become irritated, catch on clothing, or simply become a cosmetic concern.
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, we evaluate new or changing skin growths to confirm they are benign and offer safe, in-office removal when appropriate.
What Is Seborrheic Keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis (plural: seborrheic keratoses) is one of the most common benign skin growths seen in adults.
These growths often appear as:
- Light brown, dark brown, or black spots
- Waxy or rough patches
- Slightly raised growths
- Lesions with a “stuck-on” appearance
Seborrheic keratoses can develop almost anywhere on the body, although they typically do not appear on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
Many adults develop multiple seborrheic keratoses over time, particularly after middle age.
What Causes Seborrheic Keratoses?
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors appear to contribute.
Risk factors include:
- Aging
- Family history
- Genetics
Unlike many other skin conditions, seborrheic keratoses are not caused by sun exposure, are not contagious, and do not become skin cancer.
Because they are benign, treatment is usually only necessary if they become irritated, repeatedly snag on clothing, or you wish to remove them for cosmetic reasons.
What Are the Symptoms?
Most seborrheic keratoses are painless.
However, they may occasionally become:
- Itchy
- Red
- Inflamed
- Tender
- Irritated from clothing or jewelry
If a growth suddenly changes, bleeds, develops irregular borders, or looks different from your other skin lesions, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags (acrochordons) are another common benign skin growth.
Unlike seborrheic keratoses, skin tags are:
- Soft
- Flesh-colored
- Small and hanging from the skin
- Usually attached by a narrow stalk
They commonly develop in areas where skin rubs together, including:
- Neck
- Underarms
- Groin
- Under the breasts
- Eyelids
Skin tags are harmless but may become irritated by shaving, jewelry, or clothing.
How Are Seborrheic Keratoses and Skin Tags Removed?
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the growth.
Common treatment options include:
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the abnormal tissue. The treated growth gradually falls away as the skin heals.
Curettage
A curette is a specialized surgical instrument used to gently scrape away seborrheic keratoses after the area has been numbed. This technique is commonly used for thicker lesions.
Minor Surgical Removal
Skin tags can often be removed quickly by carefully snipping them with sterile surgical instruments after numbing the area if necessary.
Skin Biopsy
If a growth appears unusual or suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy. The tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory to determine whether additional treatment is needed.
Do Seborrheic Keratoses or Skin Tags Come Back?
Once an individual seborrheic keratosis or skin tag is removed, it usually does not return.
However, because many people have a genetic tendency to develop these growths, it’s common to develop new seborrheic keratoses or skin tags over time.
Are These Growths Cancerous?
No. Both seborrheic keratoses and skin tags are benign skin growths.
However, some skin cancers can resemble benign lesions. That’s why it’s important to have any new, changing, bleeding, or unusual growth evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist before attempting removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I have a seborrheic keratosis or skin cancer?
Seborrheic keratoses often have a waxy, rough, “stuck-on” appearance. Because skin cancers can sometimes look similar, any changing or suspicious growth should be examined by a dermatologist.
Can I remove a seborrheic keratosis or skin tag at home?
No. Attempting to remove skin growths yourself may cause bleeding, infection, scarring, or delay the diagnosis of a more serious condition. Professional evaluation is always recommended.
Does removal hurt?
Most patients experience little discomfort. Depending on the treatment method, a local anesthetic may be used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Will insurance cover removal?
If a seborrheic keratosis or skin tag is causing irritation, bleeding, or other medical symptoms, insurance may provide coverage. Removal performed solely for cosmetic reasons is often considered an out-of-pocket expense.
Will I have a scar?
Most removals heal with minimal scarring, although healing varies depending on the size and location of the lesion, as well as the treatment method used.
Schedule a Skin Growth Evaluation in Meridian, ID
If you have SKs or skin tags on your body that you would like to have checked or possibly removed, call (208) 888-0660 or request an appointment online. Dr. Brooks is a board-certified dermatologist with over 17 years of experience. She, or her P.A. Sammy Verner, will assess your condition and determine which treatment is best for you. Contact us today!