Many patients become concerned that they do not have a neat flat anus.  It is very common to develop little benign growths at the anus called anal polyps or skin tags.  Firstly it is important to check with a qualified doctor about the correct diagnosis.  In most cases of anal skin tags, patients are reassured and the anus can be left alone.  In some cases the tags can cause irritation or difficulties with cleaning the area, and it is then possible to excise them surgically.  Sometimes it is not possible to diagnose an anal lump confidently on examination meaning that an excision biopsy of the lump should be carried out.  The lump can then be analysed under the microscope in the laboratory for a definitive diagnosis.