Key Takeaways:
No, skin tag removal is generally not covered by OHIP because it’s treated as a cosmetic procedure for harmless growths. This usually means you pay for the removal yourself, though it’s often covered by private or work-sponsored health benefits under “dermatology services.”
Now, lets see more in detail:
The good news is that you have other great options for safe, professional skin tag removal that won’t leave a scar. In this guide, we’ll explain why OHIP doesn’t cover it, how you can use your private insurance, and what to expect from a professional treatment.
The Straight Answer on OHIP Coverage
Let’s get right to the point so you have a clear answer. When it comes to skin tags, OHIP has a very specific rule. This rule is based on why the procedure is being done.
Cosmetic vs. Medically Necessary Procedures
OHIP is designed to pay for treatments that are medically necessary. This means treating a sickness, an injury, or a disease. Because skin tags are harmless growths, removing them is considered a cosmetic procedure—its main purpose is to improve appearance, not to treat a health problem.
When Would an Exception Ever Be Made?
In very rare cases, OHIP might cover a removal. This would only happen if a doctor determines the skin tag poses a health risk, for example if it is constantly bleeding, causing significant pain, or looks suspicious. For almost all common skin tags, this is not the case.
How to Pay: Using Your Private Health Benefits
Since OHIP doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures, most people use their private insurance. This is the best and most common way to pay for professional skin tag removal. It makes getting the treatment you want simple and accessible.
Checking Your Insurance Plan for Coverage
To see if you’re covered, you should first check your benefits plan from your employer. Look for coverage under “dermatology services” or “specialist treatments.” If you’re unsure, you can call your insurance provider directly to ask about the details.
Our Simple Payment and Financing Options
For any costs not covered by your insurance, we offer simple direct payment. We also partner with Beautifi to provide flexible financing options. This allows you to break down the cost into smaller, manageable monthly payments.
Why You Should Never Remove Skin Tags at Home
You might see “do-it-yourself” kits or videos online, but trying to remove a skin tag at home is a very bad idea. It is unsafe and can lead to serious problems. Professional removal is the only safe choice.
The Real Risks: Infection, Bleeding, and Scars
Trying to cut, tie off, or freeze a skin tag yourself can cause three major problems:
- Infection: Your tools at home are not sterile, which can easily lead to a nasty skin infection.
- Bleeding: Skin tags have their own blood supply, and cutting them can cause bleeding that is difficult to stop.
- Scarring: Improper removal almost always leaves a scar that looks much worse than the original skin tag.
The Importance of a Professional Assessment
Having a specialist look at your skin growth is important. They can confirm it is just a harmless skin tag and not something more serious. This assessment gives you peace of mind and ensures the removal is done right.
What a Professional Removal Looks Like
When you get a skin tag removed by a professional, the process is quick, safe, and effective. Skin specialists have the right tools and training to do the job perfectly. They make sure you are comfortable from start to finish.
Common Methods Used by Skin Specialists
Professionals use a few standard methods for removal. These include excision, which is cutting the tag off with a sterile instrument. Another method is cauterization, which uses heat to remove the growth. The most modern method is cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold.
Our Safe and Painless FreezPen® Method
At The Mom Loft, we use an advanced cryotherapy device called the FreezPen®. This method is precise, painless, and leaves no scars. The FreezPen® uses a fine jet of nitrous oxide to freeze only the skin tag, leaving the healthy skin around it completely untouched.
Answering Your Top Questions About the Procedure
It’s normal to have a few questions before your appointment. We believe in being open and clear about the entire process. Here are answers to a couple of the most common questions we hear.
Does the Treatment Hurt and Is There Downtime?
No, our FreezPen® treatment is virtually painless. You might feel a slight cooling sensation for a few seconds, but that’s it. Best of all, there is absolutely no downtime, so you can return to your normal activities right away.
Will My Skin Tags Grow Back After Removal?
No, a skin tag that has been professionally removed will not grow back in the same spot. It’s gone for good. However, you may still develop new skin tags in other areas that are prone to friction.
Final Words:
While OHIP doesn’t cover the removal of skin tags, safe, effective, and affordable options are available to give you the clear skin you want. Our team is here to provide a professional treatment that is quick, painless, and scar-free. If you’re ready to get rid of bothersome skin tags for good, contact us today. Many patients are surprised by the blistering stage, so knowing how long it takes a skin tag to fall off after freezing can help you stay calm during the recovery phase.
- Name: The Mom Loft
- Address: 420-20 De Boers Drive, North York, ON
- Phone: 844-666-5638