Skin Lesion Removal
Patients from Walnut Creek, Oakland, Danville, and other areas often wish to treat skin tags and other lumps, bumps, and discoloration. Some are unhappy with their appearance; others find it physically uncomfortable when these rub against clothing. Removing these irregularities is a fairly simple, straightforward process with Ellie Zarnegar, PA, DMSc, and the advanced techniques used at Essential Aesthetics.
Your Experience
Benign skin growths are common and often seem to appear for no discernible reason. At Essential Aesthetics, we treat the following concerns:
Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma is a yellow buildup of fat underneath the skin around the eyes. Usually, those with very high or very low cholesterol levels develop this condition, but it can also be found in those with normal cholesterol levels. Xanthelasma does not typically pose any health threats, but in severe cases, it can affect vision.
Acrochordon (Skin Tags)
Although harmless, skin tags can be annoying, especially when they rub against clothing and get caught in jewelry. These skin lesions are benign and made of normal skin tissue and fat. They often develop on the neck, beneath the breasts, in the armpits, and in other areas where skin rubs together. Even though the nature of most skin tags is benign, we always send them to a lab to have them evaluated by a cytologist.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic Keratosis (SK) is a common, benign black or brown skin growth that is often confused with moles or warts. They have a wart-like, “glued-on” appearance and can grow to be quite large, and make people feel self-conscious. Although the cause of SK is still unknown, researchers believe that excessive sun exposure and an imbalance of the hormone estrogen may play a role in the development of SK. Generally, SK forms on the scalp, face, neck, back, or chest. SK must be differentiated from actinic keratosis (AK). AK is caused by sun-damaged skin and may become precancerous and develop into skin cancer.
Depending on the lesion type, Ellie Zarnegar, PA, DMSc, will come up with a treatment plan that will best suit your needs.
What to Expect After Removal
After the procedure, you should experience little to no pain and can resume normal activity. It is important to avoid rubbing, scratching, or touching the treated area. We recommend cleansing the treated area three times a day and applying a small amount of an antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin. It is also important to keep the area protected from the sun.
You may experience side effects after the procedure, such as mild bruising, swelling, or tenderness. Although unlikely, if you experience any post-procedure discomfort, we recommend taking an over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol.
We recommend that patients see a dermatologist once a year, or more often if they are at higher risk of skin cancer, for a full-body, professional skin exam. We also recommend that our patients check their skin every month from the top of their scalp to the soles of their feet. You can get help from a partner or friend to get help checking areas that you cannot see.
Will My Skin Lesions Grow Back?
Skin tags rarely grow back after removal, however, it is possible that other skin tags will grow in the same region. Age and genetic predisposition are factors that determine if they will grow back.
Xanthelasma may come back after removal, but to minimize the possibility of this happening, it is best to treat underlying metabolic issues and high cholesterol.
Most SK growths do not come back after removal, but they may grow in a different area.
Have Your Skin Lesion Removed
Skin lesions can be both bothersome and ugly! Essential Aesthetics is pleased to offer a number of treatments to treat these blemishes. Our Danville location is conveniently located for clients from Livermore, Alamo, Blackhawk, San Ramon, Orinda, and other Bay Area cities. Request a consultation online, or call our office at 925.855.1773 to set up an appointment with Ellie Zarnegar, PA, DMSc.