Xanthelasma
Quick answer
Xanthelasmas are yellowish, flat or slightly raised plaques that appear most often on the upper eyelid, near the inner corner of the eye.
We have a eyelids specialist
Dra. Cristina Plata Palazuelos
Orbit, Eyelids and Lacrimal Duct
Xanthelasmas are yellowish, flat or slightly raised plaques that appear most often on the upper eyelid, near the inner corner of the eye. They're formed by fat (cholesterol) deposits under the skin and, although benign and not vision-threatening, they can be associated with elevated blood cholesterol.
Because of this, when xanthelasmas appear, in addition to an eye exam, it's often recommended to check your lipid profile with your primary care doctor, since they can be an early visible sign of an underlying metabolic issue.
When a patient wants them removed for cosmetic reasons or because they've grown noticeably, treatment is surgical: the lesion is removed using techniques that minimize visible scarring, always respecting eyelid function.