Er:YAG Laser
A skin tag (also known as an acrochordon) is a small, benign growth that typically appears on the skin.
Skin tags are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker than the surrounding skin. They can be smooth or slightly wrinkled and may have a stalk (peduncle) that attaches them to the skin. They can vary in size from a few millimeters to a couple of centimeters.
Skin tags commonly occur in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as:
• Neck • Armpits • Groin • Eyelids • Under breasts
Skin tags are generally asymptomatic, meaning they don’t cause pain or discomfort. However, they can become irritated if they rub against clothing or jewelry.
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development, including:
• Friction: Areas of skin that experience friction are more likely to develop skin tags.
• Age: They are more common in older adults, though they can occur at any age.
• Obesity: Increased body weight can lead to more friction between skin folds.
• Genetics: There may be a hereditary component, as skin tags can run in families.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, can also increase the likelihood of skin tags.
The Er:YAG laser is an advanced, effective method for treating skin tags. Its precision, minimal invasiveness, and quick recovery make it a preferred option for many patients seeking cosmetic improvement without the downsides associated with traditional surgical methods. With appropriate consultation and aftercare, patients can expect successful outcomes with minimal complications.
Benefits:
Quick Recovery:
Most patients experience minimal downtime and can return to their regular activities shortly after treatment.
Minimal Discomfort:
The use of topical anesthetics and the precise nature of the laser contribute to a more comfortable experience compared to other removal methods.
Reduced Risk of Scarring:
The laser technique reduces trauma to the surrounding skin, which helps minimize scarring.
Effectiveness:
The Er:YAG laser effectively removes skin tags with a high success rate, leading to complete removal in most cases.
How does it work?
The Er:YAG laser emits a wavelength that is well absorbed by water in the skin. This allows for precise targeting of the skin tag tissue without damaging surrounding skin. The laser vaporizes the skin tag by gently removing it layer by layer.
The energy from the laser creates a thermal effect that effectively coagulates and removes the tissue of the skin tag. This minimizes bleeding and reduces the risk of infection.
Since the laser removes the skin tag with minimal impact on surrounding tissues, the risk of scarring is significantly reduced compared to traditional methods like surgical excision or cryotherapy.
Individuals with benign skin tags or multiple skin tags can opt for Er:YAG laser skin tag removal which uses advanced laser technology that is non-inavasive, quick and leaving minimal scarring.
In many cases, individual skin tags can be removed in a single treatment session. The Er:YAG laser is effective for quickly vaporizing the skin tag, often requiring only a few minutes per tag.
If a patient has multiple skin tags, several can often be treated in one session, depending on the size and location. For larger skin tags or those in sensitive areas, it might be necessary to treat them individually or in smaller groups.