Best method for removing flat xanthelasma under the eyes? (Photo)

Question

I have xanthelasma under both eyes that is flat. I have been to a few doctors and none could help me. What is the best method of removal that will leave the least amount of scarring while taking into account that they could come back and I could have to treat again? Also what is the best kind of doctor to see for this? I’m desperate to get rid of these but I don’t want to make them worse. Please tell me I don’t have to live with these on my eyes. Thank you!

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. There is no one best method for removing xanthalasmas from the eyelids. I prefer excision with a scalpel. See an experienced Oculoplastic Surgeon for evaluation and discussion of potential treatment options.Good luck,

Aaron Stone, MD · Answer

Before doing anything you should have your blood cholesterol and lipid levels checked and normalized as need be because you do not want recurrences. The best treatment is direct excision but sometimes that is not doable because the size of excision or the number of excisions distorts the eyelid. In that case serial excisions giving the skin time to stretch and accommodate between smaller excisions is the best option. The deposits are deep to and in the skin so skin surface only treatments do not work. Removal attempted through small skin incisions are usually non-productive as well.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

The only effective method to remove eyelid xanthalasma is to excise them. Laser or peel do not work. See an oculoplastic surgeon.

Best method for removing flat xanthelasma under the eyes? (Photo)

Answers (3)