Your concerns

A private conversation, shaped around you.

Discreet evaluation of skin folds around the anus, with treatment or referral when appropriate. Your consultation may include:

  • A soft fold or lump around the anus
  • Irritation, rubbing, or difficulty with hygiene
  • A change in size, color, texture, pain, or bleeding
  • Whether removal is appropriate or another condition needs treatment

Before treatment

Assessment comes first.

Dr. Tessa will review whether this option is appropriate, what alternatives are available, and what a realistic outcome may look like.

  • Symptoms and how long the lesion has been present
  • Bowel habits, constipation, fissures, hemorrhoids, or inflammation
  • Whether the appearance is typical for a skin tag
  • Benefits of observation versus discomfort, wound care, scarring, and recurrence after removal

Your visit

What to expect

  1. 01

    Private discussion of symptoms and bowel health

  2. 02

    External examination with consent

  3. 03

    Further examination, biopsy, or colorectal referral when needed

  4. 04

    A care plan for the tag and any underlying irritation or bowel concern

Recovery & aftercare

Guidance for healing safely.

Instructions are tailored to the exact treatment and your health. General points may include:

  • If removed, the area may be sore and requires careful hygiene
  • Keeping stools soft may reduce strain and discomfort
  • Healing time depends on tag size, treatment, and individual factors
  • Increasing pain, fever, pus, heavy bleeding, or poor healing needs prompt review

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Do anal tags always need removal?

No. If the diagnosis is clear and a tag is not bothersome, leaving it alone may be reasonable.

Is an anal tag the same as a genital wart?

No. They can look similar, but their causes and treatment differ. Assessment is recommended rather than self-treatment.

When might I need a colorectal specialist?

Referral may be advised for an uncertain diagnosis, a lesion extending into the anal canal, significant bowel symptoms, recurrent disease, or a procedure outside gynecologic scope.

When symptoms are urgent

Severe or rapidly worsening pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, fever with worsening swelling, difficulty breathing, or a possible pregnancy emergency requires prompt assessment. Contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.