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Have Painful Skin Tag Under Armpit. Should I Go For Surgery?

Posted on Sun, 28 Oct 2012

Question: Hi, I am 27 yrs old, male. I had a skin tag under my arm pit since the time I can remember. Recently it turned black some 4-5 days back and pains a bit when it moves. I went to a general physician and he said that I need to get a surgery. I just wanted to get a second advice. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Sudarshan (26 minutes later)

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Skin tag is benign outgrowth of the skin.

These are very common.More commonly seen in middle age,elderly, obese and
diabetic people.They are benign and do not need any treatment.

They can be removed for cosmetic purposes.
You can keep them and they will not cause any health problems as such.

Hope this helps.
I will be available for any further clarification.
Regards.
Dr Sudarshan.
Dermatologist.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sudarshan (3 hours later)

Hi Dr XXXXXXX

Thanks a lot for your insights.
Actually I wanted to know if the skin tag turning black needs any surgical process? As I mentioned in my question:
"Recently it turned black some 4-5 days back and pains a bit when it moves"
I am not at all interested in surgery just for cosmetic purposes. Please advise.

Regards,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Sudarshan (9 minutes later)

Hi XXXXXXX

Skin tag turning black has no significance.
If its causing symptoms like pain or infection then it should be removed.

Otherwise black skin tag has no indication for removal.

Hope Ive made things clear.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sudarshan (7 minutes later)

Extremely sorry for missing one more thing sir. It has also hardened a bit. If we get a cut or something on our skin, after a day or two, the skin becomes black and hardened right? My skin tag looks exactly the same.

Sorry for the trouble sir, but i am on client site and just wanted to know if this needs any immediate attention or i can wait a couple of days when I reach home.

Thanks a lot for your help. Seriously.

Regards,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Sudarshan (32 minutes later)

Hi again XXXXXXX

Even if it is hardened a bit it is not an emergency.It can wait till you get back home.

There is nothing to be worried about .You can get it removed at your convenience.

Hope this helps.

If you are satisfied with answer please accept it and rate it at the end.

Regards.

DrSudarshan
MD
Dermatologist.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar