Xanthelasma is a harmless yellow bump above or below your eyelid. It is a buildup of cholesterol deposits under the skin. Xanthelasma is not medically concerning, but it tends to bother people cosmetically. Removal options range from non-invasive treatments to surgery, but it may take several sessions. It is possible for xanthelasma to return even after removal, making this a chronic condition.
Causes:
About half of patients who have xanthelasma also have high cholesterol.
Risk factors:
- Female gender
- Obesity
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol use
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Family history of high cholesterol or xanthelasma
- Age between 35-55 years
Symptoms:
Yellow skin around your eyelids that may be:
- Flat or bumpy
- Soft or firm
- Unsightly
Diagnosis:
Your healthcare provider will be able to see xanthelasma on the skin around your eyelids. You can have one or multiple xanthelasma bumps. Since this diagnosis is clinical, no biopsy or lab test is necessary. Your healthcare provider may order blood work, such as fasting cholesterol levels.
Management and Treatment:
Xanthelasma won’t go away on its own, in fact, sometimes it can even grow bigger. Removal by your healthcare provider is the best and safest option.
Removal options include:
- Surgery
- Electrocautery
- Laser surgery
- Chemical peel
Several sessions of treatment may be needed to fully remove xanthelasma and there is always a risk that it can return after treatment.
If you think you may have xanthelasma, the specialists at Siperstein Dermatology would be happy to see you for an evaluation and treatment!
