Xanthelasma

What is Xanthelasma?

Diagram of XanthelasmaXanthelasma is soft, cholesterol-filled plaques that develop under the skin, usually on or around the eyelids and most often near the nose. They occur mainly in middle-aged and older adults — and in women more often than in men. Xanthelasma is always benign; that is, they are not cancerous and they do not spread to other parts of your body the way cancer might. They do not impair vision. Rarely, they can be a sign of hyperlipidemia — high levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, or other lipids (fats) in the blood.

What are treatment options?

Most of the time, xanthelasma is completely harmless, but you may still want to have the plaques removed as they can be cosmetically disturbing and they can grow larger. Although there are several treatment options available, because these deposits involve the full thickness of the skin, we recommend meticulous surgical excision. This can be performed with a scalpel or laser, either as an in-office procedure or under sedation anesthesia in an outpatient surgery center.

Although most patients do very well, a small portion may have a tendency for recurrence. Because they are being excised there will be a scar, but in most cases, it is a barely visible fine white line. More concerning is the fact that we are removing precious eyelid skin. This could lead to eyelid malposition, tearing, eye irritation and redness, trouble closing the eye, or change in the lid contour.

Dr. Enzer specializes in eyelid plastic surgery and has successfully removed hundreds of these growths. He is the doctor you want to choose for this type of problem.

Xanthelasma Removal Cost in Rhode Island?

Removing xanthelasma is considered a cosmetic procedure. That means you’re unlikely to be covered by your health insurance. The cost will vary based on the amount of Xanthelasma that needs to be removed and the location of the procedure (in-office or out-patient surgery center). Price and payment options can be discussed during the consultation process.

Schedule a Consultation

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the procedure, and rest assured we will do our best to provide you with excellent results that satisfy your needs.