Ask the Experts

From pediatric questions to general medical queries, our panel of experts is here to answer your questions.

Unsightly skin tags

The question: I have developed skin tags on my upper eyelid. What are these and can these be removed safely?

Dr. Faisal Ameer, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, responds, “Skin tags are tiny skin growths that protrude from the body on a slender stalk. These are caused by excessive cell proliferation of the top layers of the skin. About 25 percent of people acquire skin tags, these are usually harmless and do not require any treatment. Some individuals want to get rid of them for aesthetic reasons. Rarely, if large enough, skin tags around the eyes can obscure field of vision, making removal essential. The various options available with us which are suited for skin tag removal around eyes include: electrosurgerythis method can be very effective, and it also prevents any bleeding after removal as this device transmits an electric current to burn off the skin tag. Local anesthesia is usually used to make the procedure painless. Surgical excision-a small pair of sterile scissors or surgical scalpel is used to cut smaller skin tags off. Sometimes, an electrical probe may be used to stop any bleeding that might occur. Cryotherapy-we can use cryotherapy to freeze the skin tag off. To do so, a pair of forceps is soaked in liquid nitrogen, then the skin tag is pinched with the forceps to freeze it off. You should not attempt to remove skin tags by yourself as it can lead to partial removal and sometimes infection. It is recommended that you find a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist in your vicinity to find which method suits your needs best.

Toddler and tooth decay

The question: My toddler is showing signs of tooth decay despite our brushing his tiny milk teeth. Do milk teeth require fillings?

Dr. Ahmed Adel Salama, Specialist Pedodontist responds, “Milk teeth are of great importance to the child for which they are used in manipulation of child’s food and development of speech in pronouncing sounds like F, V, S. Moreover, milk teeth are used to maintain the space in the dental arch as well as serve cosmetic functions. The initial visit to the dental office, which should usually be by six months of child age, is critical for early examination of the milk teeth and proper intervention if needed. Cavitation occurs in the milk teeth requiring prompt dental care just as the permanent teeth do. This is called Early Childhood Caries ‘ECC’ which exists due to improper child feeding that, if not corrected, might eventually lead to complete tooth destruction affecting the child’s psychology and function. An early dental examination is usually recommended, where the child might be advised to undergo professional treatment under advanced dental procedures. Also, the guardian will be instructed about the child’s home dental routine care, which will help to maintain good oral and general health on the long term.

A biting toddler

The question: My two--year-old has started biting everyone, including us and his siblings. It is becoming embarrassing and hard to manage. How do we teach him to stop?

Dr. Sana Kausar, Consultant Family Medicine responds, “There are a few reasons for toddlers to start biting. They are learning about their world, their bodies, and how cause and effect works. They may have figured out that biting gets a reaction, and therefore, use it as a new way to seek attention. It is also a way for them to test their limits, as well as to express their feelings of anger and frustration. Although this is a very common occurrence between ages one to three, there should be zero tolerance, but without ‘punishing’ a child as most children don’t realize that biting hurts. They may be imitating something they have seen, or genuinely be exploring things, which is why things end up in the mouth. Some solutions include be firm with clear instructions: ‘no biting’ or ‘biting hurts’. Remaining calm is important, as children take their cues from parents, and will calm down faster. Another solution is to comfort the victim by redirecting your attention to the child who was bitten. Deal with the other person/ child as necessary, including cleaning with soap and water, if required. It is normal to be upset if you realize you have hurt someone and learning to help comfort the victim or apologize is a good way to proceed. Also, redirect, as at this age if emotions are running high, divert the attention to a more positive activity, such as playing a game or listening to music. Also, look for patterns; try to work out when the biting occurs. If your child continues, then speak to a pediatrician to exclude other reasons, such as expressive speech delay, or sensory processing disorder.