Xanthelasma removal (Surgery or Laser) | treatment cost in Turkey

Xanthelasma: What is it?

Xanthelasma appears as soft, yellowish or cream-colored patches on the eyelids and around the eyes.

These growths consist of fatty deposits accumulating under the skin, typically appearing as raised or flat, somewhat irregular patches.

While usually benign, xanthelasma sometimes signals lipid metabolism issues such as high cholesterol, or occasionally points to cardiovascular concerns.

Causes of Xanthelasma palpebrarum

Yellow patches around the eyes typically develop when the body has difficulty managing fats and cholesterol. Several underlying factors can contribute:

• Dyslipidemia: Excessive cholesterol or triglycerides in the bloodstream
• Thyroid dysfunction: An underactive thyroid can affect fat metabolism
• Liver conditions: Cirrhosis or primary biliary cirrhosis interfere with how your body processes fats
• Pancreatic inflammation: Occasionally, pancreatitis can accompany xanthelasma development

Xanthelasma often indicates an underlying metabolic issue. About half of people with xanthelasma have elevated blood lipids, especially men. When xanthelasma appears before age 40, it frequently suggests familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited cholesterol disorder.

Over time, excess LDL cholesterol (the harmful type) builds up in artery walls, promoting atherosclerosis. This gradual narrowing of vessels significantly increases your risk of heart attack or stroke later in life.

Xanthelasmas typically cause no itching, pain, or vision problems.

Diagnosis of xanthelasma in Turkey

Turkish ophthalmologists diagnose xanthelasma through a straightforward visual examination. If you notice yellowish, soft, slightly raised spots appearing around your eyes or in the inner corner, an eye specialist should evaluate them. These features are characteristic of xanthelasma.

Your doctor will confirm the diagnosis visually and likely order blood work, specifically a lipid panel. This test measures total cholesterol, HDL (protective cholesterol),LDL (harmful cholesterol),and triglycerides. These measurements help determine if a lipid imbalance is present and guide what comes next.

Xanthelasma Treatments in Turkey

The partner clinics of Turquie Santé in Turkey offer several approaches for xanthelasma removal, tailored to how deep and extensive the deposits are.

Surgical removal

Surgical excision works best for firm, deeper lesions larger than 3 mm. An oculoplastic surgeon carefully removes the fatty deposits and closes the area with fine sutures. The procedure typically happens under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, so you go home the same day.

Surgical removal significantly lowers the chance of xanthelasma returning months or years later. When surgery is chosen, reshaping the eyelid at the same time often improves the final result. The outcome is typically natural-looking without visible scarring.

CO2 laser treatment

If you prefer a less invasive option, CO2 laser treatment is highly effective. A focused laser beam vaporizes the xanthelasma from the skin surface without harming surrounding tissue. You'll apply anesthetic cream beforehand, but no injection is needed. Recovery is quick and typically leaves no scarring.

Whatever the size or location of your xanthelasma, consulting an aesthetic medicine or dermatology specialist helps determine your best path forward.

Xanthelasma is cosmetically bothersome but fully treatable. If patches around your eyes concern you, speak with a doctor about which approach suits your situation best.