Question:
Will they go away after WLS?

I am currently seeking WLS and have not yet been approved, but am putting together my research. I currently have several small skin tags and one very large one on the inner thigh. I have been told that these are caused by my obesity and the way my body processes sugar. I am not diabetic, but am a sweet-a-holic. I am hoping that if I get the RNY and change my diet to avoid these sugars that the skin tags will go away. Anyone have experience or knowledge in this area?    — Laura B. (posted on October 3, 2000)

October 3, 2000
I work with a nurse who worked in dermatology. She told me that skin tags are hereditary, and they are caused by skin rubbing. She said they are very easy to remove, but may return. They are nothing to worry about.
   — twenc

October 3, 2000
Skin tags SEEM to go hand in hand with sleep apnea. That's not scientific, but seems to follow a true pattern. Doesn't matter if your apnea has been diagnosed or not. I was having about 100/mo frozen off before surgery. Once the sleep apnea was gone, I have had only 1 removed in 6 yrs. Seems like proper oxygen flow helped tremendously. My husband also followed a similar pattern, not having any until he exhibited signs of apnea and then having had them removed, none have returned since his suregry 5 yrs ago.
   — vitalady

October 14, 2000
My husband had several small skin tags around his neck -- It's a hereditary factor according to his dermatologist, and his sisters and brother do all deal with them in the same area. In his case, insurance wouldn't cover the removal of skin tags and his dermatologist told me to clip them with nail clippers -- That's what I did. It only took a few minutes, was virtually painless for my husband, no bleeding, and they remain gone 2 years later.
   — Michelle F.