Understanding xanthelasma treatment
These plaques sit in the delicate eyelid skin and are harmless in themselves, but they can be a marker of lipid abnormality, which is why a blood test is part of proper management rather than an upsell.
Treatment is chosen for size and depth. Small, superficial plaques respond well to radiofrequency or chemical cauterisation; larger or deeper ones may need excision.
Recurrence is common, particularly if lipid levels remain uncontrolled, and this is explained before treatment.
This may suit you if
- Yellowish plaques on the upper or lower eyelids
- Cosmetically bothersome deposits
- Patients willing to have lipid levels checked
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Examination and lipid testing
The lesions are examined and a lipid profile is advised, since xanthelasma can be associated with abnormal cholesterol.
- 2
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is used; eyelid skin is delicate, so technique and depth are carefully controlled.
- 3
Removal
Radiofrequency cautery, chemical cauterisation or excision is performed depending on size and depth.
- 4
Healing and review
Healing takes about one to two weeks, with review to check the result and discuss lipid management.
Aftercare
- Keep the treated area clean and dry as instructed
- Apply the prescribed ointment and dressing until healed
- Do not pick or scratch scabs
- Use sun protection on the healed area to reduce marking
- Avoid eye makeup until fully healed
- Follow any lipid management advice given
Possible side effects
- Pigment change or a small residual mark on the eyelid
- Temporary swelling
- Recurrence, especially with uncontrolled lipids
- Rarely, scarring or eyelid margin changes