Baby with pre auricular skin tag: advice greatly appreciated

[Sunnydale]

Hi. My dd was born with what appears to be called a pre auricular skin tag (I only know this because I googled it) - ie a small blob or polyp at the front of the ear. I questioned it at birth and the midwife said I ought to get it removed early, that it was a simple procedure involving cutting off the blood supply with thread (??!)

6 months later I finally get a consultation with a dermatologist at my local NHS hospital. She says a local anaesthetic would be needed to remove the tag, that it would be done with a blade, and that she wouldn't recommend it being done before 4 yrs of age.

Has anyone had experience of this, and what did they do? DD's hearing has been tested (these tags can apparently be a portent of deafness) but her kidneys have not (in the US, renal screening is apparently mandatory when a pre auricular skin tag manifests, as it can also indicate kidney issues). I mentioned the kidney issue at the hospital but they were unconcerned.

Just not sure what to do. Wouldn't get it removed at all but for inevitable playground teasing, but would be very very grateful to hear from anyone who had experienced similar. Many thanks for reading

[GoodDaysBadDays]

My ds had one of these but it came off onn it's own at about 3 months old. Just wasn't there one day!

We did have the kidney scan and a few other tests too, seemed to be standard in this area when a skin tag is on or near the ear.

Wrt having it removed, don't have personal experience as ds's fell off before it was a consideration, but I would be inclined to leave her for the time being. But that's just me!

I would question the kidney scan again.

I'm sure she'll be fine though Good Luck x

[yellowbutterfly]

Kidney scans are being phased out as babies kidneys are checked antenatally now. But for piece of mind i'd get GP to refer for a scan. HTH

[milliem]

Hi, My son has one of these skin tags. He's 13 months old and also has metopic synostosis, so the skin tag will be removed when he has surgery for the synostosis.

I am really worried now.... I thought they were totally harmless and didn't realise they could relate to kidney problems. His hearing is fine though.

He has an appoinment with the consultant on Monday, I will definately be asking more about the significance of the skin tag.