Dermatology

Treating fibromas: Removing bothersome skin lesions at Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich

Fibromas (skin tags) are small, skin-coloured to slightly brown, soft protrusions that occur most commonly on the neck, axillae, eyelids and chest. Medically, they are not viral warts but benign connective-tissue proliferations (acrochordons). Although harmless, many patients find them cosmetically disturbing; they may also chafe or become inflamed.

At the Swiss Derma Clinic, we remove fibromas gently and on an outpatient basis.

Fibromas: what’s behind them?

Fibromas usually arise spontaneously. Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, hormonal changes and cutaneous ageing. The good news: fibromas are always benign and non-contagious. A specialist assessment is nevertheless advisable to reliably exclude other lesions.

Typical features:

Soft, skin-coloured or light brown
Often pedunculated (“skin tags”)
Typically asymptomatic but easily irritated by friction

Which methods are used?

The choice of technique depends on the size, location and number of fibromas, as well as your individual skin characteristics.

Ablative laser therapy

An ablative laser vaporises the lesion in a tissue-sparing manner. The treatment is virtually painless and particularly suitable for smaller, flatter lesions. Healing is generally straightforward.

Electrodesiccation

The fibroma is desiccated using electrical energy. This method is mainly used for small, focal lesions.

Curettage (shave/curette removal)

Larger or pedunculated fibromas can be removed with a small sharp instrument (curette). The area is numbed locally beforehand.

Surgical excision

In select cases—very large lesions or unfavourable locations—a minor surgical procedure may be required. Here too we aim for the best possible cosmetic outcome and scar-sparing healing.

When is removal sensible?

Mechanical irritation (rubbing from clothing, jewellery, spectacles)
Recurrent inflammation or bleeding
Cosmetic concerns
Diagnostic uncertainty (e.g., clinically similar lesions)

Treatment pathway in Zurich

Dermatological evaluation: visual inspection and, if indicated, dermoscopy
Method selection: tailored to the individual findings
Removal: outpatient; usually without or with local anaesthesia
Aftercare: cooling, topical care, and sun protection for treated areas

Good to know

Most treatments take only a few minutes.
After removal there is usually just mild erythema; occasionally a superficial crust forms.
Scarring is uncommon but possible, especially with deeper lesions.
Multiple fibromas can be treated in a single session if needed.

Do not put up with bothersome skin lesions. Have your fibromas assessed by a specialist and, if desired, removed with minimal fuss. We will be happy to advise you at Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich. Appointments can be booked online.

FAQ

Do fibromas recur after removal?

Removed fibromas generally do not regrow at the same site. However, especially with genetic predisposition, new lesions can develop elsewhere over time. We therefore recommend periodic check-ups to detect changes early.

Can fibromas disappear on their own?

No. Fibromas do not regress spontaneously. Definitive removal is only possible through dermatological procedures, for example laser ablation.

Are there risks associated with removal?

As with any medical procedure, minor irritation, redness or crusting can occur. Rarely, slight pigmentary changes or scarring may develop, particularly at deeper sites or areas subject to friction.

Is local anaesthesia necessary?

For most techniques—especially laser and electrodesiccation—only a superficial anaesthetic is required. For mechanical methods such as curettage or surgical excision, we numb the treatment area locally.

How long does healing take?

Depending on method and body site, the skin typically heals within a few days to about two weeks. During this period, avoid direct sun exposure and mechanical irritation (e.g., chemical peels, rubbing). We will provide personalised aftercare instructions at our Zurich practice.

Can fibromas be mistaken for other lesions?

Laypersons often confuse fibromas with viral warts, melanocytic naevi (moles), or other benign or malignant skin lesions. A specialist evaluation is therefore recommended to avoid unnecessary treatments or delays. Fibromas can be diagnosed very reliably by a dermatologist.

Are costs covered by health insurance?

In Switzerland, removal is generally covered only when medically indicated, for example with recurrent inflammation or mechanical irritation. In other cases it is self-paid. We will inform you transparently about costs before treatment.

What should I consider before my appointment?

No major preparation is usually required. Please tell us if you are taking anticoagulants, and avoid irritating skincare on the treatment area. Also refrain from extensive sun exposure or self-tanners. We will discuss these and other points with you during your consultation at Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich.

Our Q&A texts are by no means a substitute for a medical consultation. For an individual and well-founded medical assessment, we recommend a personal consultation at the Swiss Derma Clinic. We are happy to take the time for you!

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