Xanthelasma is a skin condition which manifests itself as yellow, soft boils or lesions on the skin which can be found around the eye, usually on the eyelids. This condition is related to the high levels of cholesterol and high lipid levels. Xanthelasma is rare and it affects usually middle aged women, but there are some cases when men or young people can be affected.
The main cause of xanthelasma is a cholesterol and lipid disorder. It is considered to be hereditary since the high cholesterol and similar problems can be passed on. Xanthelasma is not painful and in most cases lesions do not have influence on the proper function of the eyelids. The main concern of the patients is the appearance since the lesions are on the visible spot. The lesions can be from 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters big. Generally they cannot disappear on their own, they can be the same size for a long time or grow larger.
If you notice yellow lesions around your eyelids, you should see a doctor mainly because you obviously have problems with cholesterol. As far as xanthelasma is concerned, the doctor will have to do a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
The treatment may include a surgery, but there are some other techniques which can be done such as laser treatment which leaves less scars, only skin color can be affected. Electric needle treatment which is recommended for very small xanthelasma, usage of liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy ) to freeze the lesions which is very good treatment but the process may have to be repeated or application of specifically made acetic acid which melt lipids.
The surgery is done with a local anesthetic. A small incision is made and the inside of the lesion together with the damaged skin is removed. This surgical removal and the other techniques may leave small scars and cause skin tone changes. However, in most cases the scars and damaged skin assimilate very well in the face because the eyelids have much more wrinkles on them then the rest of the face. Unfortunately, any kind of removal of xanthelasma will not prevent the lesions to appear again in the future. The best treatment after the surgery is a healthy lifestyle because high levels of cholesterol and lipids will cause eruption of lesions again. You should eat healthy, exercise and visit your doctor for a blood test which will determine the presence of cholesterol and lipids.
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