Anal Skin Tags: Should They Be Removed?

Anal skin tags are small flaps of soft skin around the anus. They're harmless, but they can be a nuisance, and many people ask whether they should be removed.

What they are and why they form

Skin tags are benign. They often remain after a healed thrombosed pile or anal fissure, or follow other irritation. They're not warts and not cancerous.

Do they need removing?

Medically, no — they don't have to be removed. People consider removal when a tag:

• makes hygiene difficult or causes itching,
• catches or feels uncomfortable,
• is bothersome cosmetically.

What removal involves

If you choose to have one removed, it's a minor procedure, often under local anaesthetic, with a short recovery. As with any procedure on this sensitive area, healing needs care to stay clean and comfortable.

Worth checking first

It's sensible to have any new anal lump assessed before assuming it's a simple skin tag, so the diagnosis is confirmed.

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a qualified clinician about your own circumstances.