A condition characterised by yellowish deposits of fat under the skin around the eyes
What happens first?
Symptoms
Xanthelasma typically presents as yellowish patches or plaques of cholesterol-rich deposits under the skin, commonly around the eyelids. These lesions are usually soft and flat, and they may vary in size. Individuals with xanthelasma may experience cosmetic concerns due to the appearance of yellow patches.
Flat or bumpy skin around eyelids
Soft or firm skin around eyes
Uncomfortable areas around eyes
Causes
Approximately half of everyone who has xanthelasma will also have high cholesterol. While the growths themselves are completely harmless, high cholesterol can be a symptom or warning sign of conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
If you are diagnosed with high cholesterol, your doctor can recommend ways to lower it, usually involving changes to diet and exercise in combination with medication.
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While harmless, many people opt to remove xanthelasma for cosmetic reasons. Non-surgical options like cryotherapy (freezing) are available. However, these may leave marks in place of the cysts. Surgical removal using a laser or tiny incisions offers the most successful results.
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