What is Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma is cholesterol deposits around the eyes. Most commonly occurring as yellow bumps under the eye, it can appear, is on or near the corners of your eyelids near your nose. Cholesterol deposits form a xanthelasma under your skin. As such, the appearance of these yellow bumps may indicate the presence of other conditions such as high cholesterol (50% of people with Xanthelasma have elevated cholesterol), thyroid issues or diabetes. And increases your risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease. So if these appear, you should have cholesterol levels checked and monitored by your GP. Your GP may also want to test for Thyroid function, blood sugar and liver function.
Xanthelasma of the eyelids is more common in women and most commonly developed between 35 and 55 (however, it can occur in younger people). Xanthelasmata are more common in Asian and Mediterranean populations. Xanthelasma occurs more naturally with the following risk factors.
- Overweight.
- Cigarette smoking
- High cholesterol levels.
- Diabetes.
- Blood pressure that is too high.
- Xanthelasma in the family.
Xanthelasma Removal
Xanthelasmas are yellow patches of skin around your eyelids. They could be flat or bumpy, soft or firm. Though they are harmless, people seek to have xanthelasma treatment for cosmetic reasons.
Is it possible for Xanthelasma to go away on its own?
No. A xanthelasma does not go away on its own. Instead, it remains the same size or grows more prominent. A xanthelasma cannot be popped or squeezed like a pimple.
What is the most effective treatment for Xanthelasma?
The best option is to have a Doctor remove the Xanthelasma. Treatment options include
- Surgery.
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen (extreme cold).
- Laser treatment.
- Radiofrequency ablation (sometimes followed by stitches).
- Although you should follow a low-fat diet and take a statin, these measures will not cure your Xanthelasma.
These xanthelasma treatments are usually adequate. However, removing your xanthelasmas may require several sessions.
- Xanthelasmas frequently reappear after removal, regardless of treatment.
- Recurrence may be reduced if you work with your doctor to lower your cholesterol.
Xanthelasma Treatment Adverse Effects
Depending on the treatment, you may need up to a week to recover from Xanthelasma removal. Some side effects fade in a matter of days, while others (such as skin discolouration) take several months to resolve (or may be permanent). The following are some of the side effects of removing xanthelasmas:
- Pain and swelling significantly after treatment
- Skin colour changes and scarring are possible.
- Eyelid turning inside out or appearing to be pulled in closer to your eye.