Xanthelasma is a condition characterized by the appearance of yellowish plaques on the eyelids, often associated with elevated cholesterol levels in the blood. While they usually don’t cause physical discomfort, they can be a significant aesthetic concern for many individuals. In some cases, xanthelasmas can grow large enough to interfere with vision.
In these cases, xanthelasma surgery can be an effective treatment option. This is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the affected eyelid skin and removes the fat deposits causing the xanthelasma.
After surgery, it’s common to experience temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, or discomfort. These usually subside within a few days, and the patient can return to normal activities within a couple of days.
Important considerations:
- Xanthelasma surgery only removes existing fat deposits and does not prevent new ones from forming in the future. To reduce the risk of recurrence, it’s important to control cholesterol levels and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
- In some cases, a second surgery may be needed to completely remove the xanthelasmas.
- Xanthelasma surgery can leave permanent scars, though these are typically small and not very noticeable.
If you are considering xanthelasma surgery, consult with an oculofacial ophthalmologist to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure.
