Treatment for Xanthelasma, the yellow lesions that appear around the eyes

You may have experienced discomfort due to yellowish lumps around your eyelids.

Xanthelasma is a prominent yellow lesion caused by the deposition of lipid components, such as cholesterol, in the skin layer of the eyelids.

Xanthelomas are usually not flat but raised, making them difficult to manage with simple topical ointments alone. It is advisable to choose a delicate laser procedure, considering the depth and area of the lesion.

At our clinic, we help improve xanthelasma, the yellowish bumps on the eyelids, through a dual laser method that utilizes both Er:YAG laser and CO2 laser.

Features of Xanthelasma Dual Laser Treatment

Xanthelasma treatment is not simply about deeply removing the affected area.

Eyelid skin is thin and delicate. Therefore, it is crucial to use lasers precisely, carefully considering the thickness and depth of the lesion, the texture of the skin around the eyes, and the risk of scarring.

Accordingly, we approach the treatment by precisely refining the lesion from the surface to a certain depth with an Er:YAG laser, and then, if the lesion is deeply entrenched, additionally using a CO2 laser to complement the treatment.

1. Assess the size and depth of the lesion to plan the treatment

Xanthelasma may appear as small yellow lumps on the eyelids, but it is common for them to be widely spread within the skin or to have vaguely connected borders.

Before the procedure, we meticulously check not only the visible yellow area but also the thickness and spread of the lesion, and the wrinkle lines of the eyelid, to carefully determine the removal area.

The goal is to adjust the raised areas to a natural height and delicately refine the borders to blend smoothly with the surrounding skin.

2. Precisely remove layer by layer with an Er:YAG laser to minimize scarring

The Er:YAG laser is advantageous for ablating the skin thinly and can be used to precisely remove lesions in sensitive and thin areas like around the eyes.

Research suggests that the Er:YAG laser can precisely remove lesions and aid in the recovery process during xanthelasma treatment.

At our clinic, rather than deeply removing the yellowish deposits all at once, we proceed cautiously, dividing the treatment into thin layers from the skin surface.

This method can reduce the risk of damage to normal skin and help naturally adjust the lesion's height to match the texture of the skin around the eyes.

3. If necessary, use a CO2 laser to refine the base and periphery of the lesion

Even if only the visible yellow part of xanthelasma is removed, if tissue deposited at the base of the lesion remains, it may reappear.

The CO2 laser can be used to vaporize or ablate lesions, and it is known as one method for treating xanthelasma.

However, compared to the Er:YAG laser, redness and scarring may persist longer, so it is not always chosen as the primary treatment method.

At our clinic, after precisely refining the lesion with an Er:YAG laser, if deemed necessary, we can use a CO2 laser to lightly tidy up any remaining lesion at the base or periphery.

Instead of aggressively removing the lesion, we carefully adjust the laser output and irradiation range, considering both the depth and the condition of the eyelid skin.

4. Natural results aligned with the eye area's skin texture

Xanthelasma treatment is not just about removing yellow lesions.

The eyelids are an area where even small scars or pigment changes are easily noticeable. Therefore, a smooth finish that blends seamlessly with the surrounding skin is important to ensure the skin surface does not become uneven or bumpy after the procedure.

At our clinic, we strive to soften not only the center of the lesion but also its surrounding borders, so that the eye contour can recover as naturally as possible after the procedure.

5. Treatment plan considering the possibility of recurrence

Xanthelasma has a characteristic of reappearing even after the lesion has been removed. Especially if it is related to lipid metabolism problems or cholesterol levels, recurrence can occur even after treatment, so blood tests or lifestyle adjustments are recommended if necessary.

At our clinic, we meticulously evaluate the size and depth of the lesion, and rather than removing it excessively deeply at once, we suggest step-by-step procedures if needed, minimizing the risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation.

In addition to effectively removing the lesion, the aesthetically satisfying recovery of the skin around the eyes is also an important consideration.

What to expect from Xanthelasma Dual Laser Treatment

You can expect to have yellow lesions around your eyes removed with reduced risk of scarring.

Precise peeling of thin layers is possible with the Er:YAG laser.

The CO2 laser can help refine the base and periphery of the lesion.

Delicate power adjustment suitable for thin and sensitive areas like the eyelids is performed.

A customized treatment plan considering the size and depth of the lesion is created.

The borders are refined to blend smoothly with the surrounding skin.

You can expect improvement in the eye's appearance due to the raised feeling or yellow discoloration.

If you are experiencing daily discomfort due to these symptoms, you can consult about this procedure.

If yellow deposits are observed around the eyelids.

When you discover lesions that are yellowish and slightly raised above the skin, unlike existing melasma.

If you are concerned about yellow lesions around your eyes that are not easily covered by makeup.

If you are experiencing lesions gradually increasing in size over time.

For those concerned about potential scars or hyperpigmentation after the procedure, as the eye area is sensitive.

If you have experienced lesions recurring in the same area despite having undergone similar removal procedures in the past.

If you prefer a delicate removal method using lasers rather than surgical intervention.

For those who feel their appearance looks tired or older than their actual age due to yellow lesions around the eyes.

Procedure Steps Guide

STEP 01. Thorough Personal Consultation

We precisely diagnose whether the yellow lesions around the eyes are xanthelasma and confirm the exact depth and extent of the lesions.

STEP 02. Preparation of the Treatment Area

After thoroughly disinfecting the eye area skin to be treated, the exact locations of the lesions to be removed are delicately marked.

STEP 03. Administration of Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is administered to the area to alleviate any discomfort or pain that may occur during the procedure.

STEP 04. Micro-Removal Using Er:YAG Laser

The yellowish deposited lesions are very carefully and gradually removed, starting from the skin's surface layer.

STEP 05. Auxiliary Refinement with CO2 Laser

If necessary, the deepest parts of the lesions and their surrounding borders can be carefully cauterized with a CO2 laser to complete the removal of any remaining lesions.

STEP 06. Post-Procedure Care for Regeneration

Post-Procedure Precautions

ㆍThe treated area may occasionally develop redness, swelling, stinging, slight oozing or small scabs.

ㆍDo not forcibly remove scabs. Waiting for them to fall off naturally helps the wound heal.

ㆍTo keep the treated area from drying out, ongoing care with a repair cream or products such as DuoDERM or DuoGel is advisable.

ㆍPlease refrain from excessive rubbing of the treated area around the eyes.

ㆍUntil the lesion has healed completely, avoid applying makeup, eye shadow or eyeliner to the treated area.

ㆍFor about one week after treatment, limiting steam rooms, saunas, swimming, alcohol and smoking can be helpful.

ㆍUV exposure may cause pigmentation, so it is important to protect the treated area thoroughly from sunlight.

ㆍPlease be aware that repeated treatments may be needed depending on the depth and size of the lesion.

ㆍXanthelasma may recur later, influenced by individual constitutional factors or lipid metabolism.