Anal skin tags are benign (non-cancerous) growths of skin that develop around the anus. They most associated with hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
For some people, skin tags cause no symptoms. For others, they can lead to cosmetic concerns, difficulty with hygiene, itching, irritation, or discomfort.
At Houston Hemorrhoid Center, the most important first step in treating anal skin tags is identifying why the tag formed in the first place and determining which symptoms are truly coming from the tag. A thorough in office evaluation determines whether there is an underlying condition contributing to the problem.
Skin Tags Caused by Anal Fissures
Anal fissure—a tear inside the anus may lead to the development of a skin tag. In these cases, the fissure, not the tag itself, is the source of pain.
Removing the skin tag alone—without treating the fissure—often results in:
- Regrowth of the skin tag
- Worsening of fissure-related pain
- Delayed healing
Therefore, addressing the anal fissure first offers the best chance for relief from pain and resolution of the bothersome growth.
Skin Tags Associated with Hemorrhoids
Another very common cause of anal skin tags is a history of hemorrhoids. After a hemorrhoid flare resolves, stretched skin may remain behind as a permanent skin tag. When hemorrhoids swell, during pregnancy in particular, the overlying skin stretches—and once the swelling subsides, after delivery, the skin often does not shrink back.
These tags:
- Can persist indefinitely
- Are most seen after pregnancy
- May become bothersome years after the original hemorrhoid episode
Before removing a hemorrhoid-related skin tag, it is essential to determine whether there is ongoing hemorrhoidal swelling or symptoms. Removing the tag without addressing active hemorrhoids can lead to:
- Hemorrhoid swelling
- Recurrence of the skin tag
The best outcomes are achieved with an office-based hemorrhoid banding, followed by skin tag excision when appropriate.
Anal Skin Tag Removal
For patients who wish to have their skin tags removed, excision is a quick, in-office procedure. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area, making the procedure painless. Wound care generally involves gentle washing with water.