What Causes Skin Tags on Eyelids?
Skin tags often appear in skin folds or areas that rub together. While they can develop anywhere on the body, these locations are particularly common.
Although the exact cause of skin tags is unknown, several factors may increase your risk of developing them:
- People over the age of 40 are more likely to develop skin tags.
- Being overweight or obese can also increase your risk.
- Type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher risk of skin tags.
- Abnormal lipid levels (cholesterol and other fats) may contribute to skin tag development.
- If you have a family member with skin tags, you may be more likely to develop them.
- Skin tags often appear during pregnancy but usually disappear after childbirth.
A 2010 Brazilian study found a strong link between insulin resistance, diabetes, and skin tag development.
Treatment and Removal of Skin Tags
Even though skin tags are harmless, large ones near the eyes can block vision, which might make some people want them removed. Others might choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons.
Sometimes, skin tags can fall off on their own. This can happen if the narrow part of the skin tag twists and cuts off its blood supply.
You should never try to remove a skin tag at home without talking to your doctor. Doctors can easily remove them in their office, reducing the risk of infection from improper removal.
However, if the entire skin tag isn’t removed, it might grow back.
Doctors can use different medical procedures to remove skin tags from the eyelids. These include:
- Ligation
This procedure involves tying off the base of a skin tag to stop blood flow. This usually causes the skin tag to fall off within a few weeks. - Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is another option. The doctor uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag off. They will repeat this process for each skin tag. Multiple treatments might be needed to remove all skin tags. - Scissor Excision
Excision is suitable for smaller skin tags. The doctor uses sterile scissors to cut through the thin stalk that connects the skin tag to the eyelid. An electrical probe can be used to stop bleeding. - Electrocautery
This procedure involves burning the base of the skin tag with an electrical probe. This method is often used for smaller skin tags.
In Summary
Skin tags are usually harmless, so there’s no need to worry too much. However, if you’re bothered by how they look or if they’re affecting your vision, you can have them removed.
If you’re looking for a professional to remove a skin tag near your eye, call Bharmal Internal Medicine at (817) 784-0052 to schedule an appointment.