By Anal skin tags are far more common than many people realise—and while they might appear to be a purely cosmetic issue, they can actually signal or contribute to other underlying health concerns. That’s why anal skin tags removal is often recommended not just for comfort, but for clinical reasons. Whether caused by previous haemorrhoids, chronic irritation, or healing from minor trauma, these small flaps of excess skin around the anus can lead to hygiene challenges, discomfort, and even embarrassment. Fortunately, modern anal skin tag treatment is straightforward, minimally invasive, and performed by a qualified colorectal surgeon under safe and hygienic conditions.
Let’s take a closer look at what anal skin tags are, why they occur, and what’s involved in having them removed.
What Are Anal Skin Tags?
Anal skin tags are small, benign growths of excess skin found around the anal opening. They’re usually soft to the touch, can vary in size, and are typically flesh-toned. While not dangerous in themselves, their presence may indicate that the area has undergone stress, such as from straining during bowel movements, haemorrhoids, fissures, or inflammation.
In many cases, these skin tags remain asymptomatic. However, they can become painful and irritated by wiping, tight clothing, or extended sitting—especially in warm weather.
Causes of Anal Skin Tags
The most common causes include:
Haemorrhoids – When haemorrhoids shrink, they can leave behind loose skin.
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea – Ongoing irritation can stretch the skin.
Anal fissures – When these small tears heal, they sometimes leave a skin tag.
Pregnancy and childbirth – Straining and pressure can contribute to their development.
Each of these conditions warrants its own clinical attention, and a colorectal surgeon can assess whether additional treatment is needed beyond anal skin tags removal.
Why They’re Not Just Cosmetic
Although anal skin tags are not dangerous, they can become problematic for several reasons:
- Hygiene concerns: Skin tags can make it difficult to clean the area thoroughly after bowel movements, which may lead to irritation or infection.
- Physical discomfort: They may catch on toilet paper or become inflamed from friction.
- Anxiety and embarrassment: While not medically harmful, skin tags can still affect a person’s quality of life, especially during intimacy or medical examinations.
Importantly, these growths can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions such as warts, haemorrhoids, or even early signs of anal cancer. That’s why a proper diagnosis from a colorectal surgeon is essential before any anal skin tag treatment.
What Does Removal Involve?
Anal skin tags removal is typically a simple outpatient procedure. Depending on the location and number of tags, removal might be performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. The process involves:
- A brief consultation and physical exam
- Surgical excision of the skin tags using a scalpel, scissors, or laser
- A short recovery period with guidance on hygiene and wound care
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Some discomfort, swelling, or itching may occur during recovery, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and proper care.
Who Should You See?
It’s important to avoid home remedies or aesthetic clinics when it comes to anal skin tag treatment. These procedures should always be performed by a qualified colorectal surgeon with experience in anal conditions. Not only will they ensure the procedure is done safely, but they’ll also investigate whether the tags are linked to another condition that requires attention.
Comfort, Confidence and Clinical Care
While some people may choose to live with anal skin tags, others find that their presence affects daily life in subtle but persistent ways. If you’re experiencing irritation, trouble with hygiene, or just want clarity on what those skin changes mean, it’s worth exploring your options for anal skin tags removal. Effective and safe anal skin tag treatment is readily available, and a qualified colorectal surgeon in Melbourne can help you understand the cause, the risks, and the most appropriate solution.