Causes of xanthelasma
Xanthelasma development can be :
- Associated with high cholesterol : genetic or caused by an excessively fatty diet.
- Spontaneous : without abnormal lipid test results. In this case, a genetic predisposition exists.
In both cases, macrophages — cells responsible for removing foreign substances — capture molecules in the body and surround themselves with lipid particles. These clusters then deposit in the eyelids, forming xanthelasma.
How can xanthelasma be removed ?
Xanthelasma treatment addresses aesthetic discomfort. These lesions are harmless to health.
Screening for an abnormal lipid profile is mandatory, with treatment needed if cholesterol is elevated.
Dr Romano almost exclusively uses electrosurgery to remove these lesions, as it is much less traumatic than an ablative laser.
This resembles a pen with a needle tip that selectively vaporises the lesion.
Local anaesthesia is performed and treatment takes around ten minutes.
For one week, keeping healing cream continuously applied to the treated area is recommended.
Results and after-effects
Significant swelling may occur during the first days, depending on skin firmness and lesion number and extent.
Xanthelasma removal exposes underlying tissues, leaving a small hollow that heals within one to four weeks. Once healed, the skin remains pink for two months.
The healing process takes around six months.
A common side effect is lighter or darker skin colour at the treated site.
Recurrence is frequent, and no factor predicts when it will happen.
Price of xanthelasma treatment in Geneva
Xanthelasma treatment is performed by Dr Romano. Prices start at CHF 300 per session, adjusted according to lesion number and size. In most cases, one procedure is sufficient. If necessary, a top-up can be performed free of charge two months after initial treatment. A personalised quotation is provided during the initial consultation according to clinical assessment.
Publications involving 1,329 patients describe several options for treating xanthelasma deposits. CO₂ and Er:YAG lasers achieve substantial improvements in many series. The choice depends on lesion size and depth: surgery may be preferable for some extensive or deep lesions.
An analysis of 21 publications reports aesthetic results ranging from moderate to excellent after laser treatment of xanthelasma. CO₂ laser is the most extensively studied. Treatment selection should take account of the risk of pigmentation changes and recurrence of the lesions.
A study involving 295 patients assessed CO₂ laser ablation of xanthelasma. Lesion clearance exceeded 99% for grades I to III and reached nearly 95% for grade IV. At twelve months, recurrences were observed in 6.8% of patients. These results concern a specific technique and do not guarantee that lesions will not recur after treatment.
Frequently asked questions about xanthelasma in Geneva
Is a xanthoma serious ?
A xanthoma is generally not serious but may indicate excess blood lipids (hyperlipidaemia) or other metabolic disorders. Although benign, consulting a doctor is important to identify the cause and assess associated cardiovascular risk.
Which doctor should you consult for xanthelasma ?
For xanthelasma, consulting a dermatologist, a skin specialist, is recommended. A general practitioner can also make an initial diagnosis and refer you if needed.
Which cream can treat xanthelasma ?
Certain trichloroacetic acid or retinoid creams may reduce xanthelasma size, but effectiveness remains limited. These products must be used under medical supervision. The most effective treatments are generally dermatological procedures such as laser, cryotherapy or electrocoagulation.
Can make-up cover xanthelasma ?
Yes, make-up can temporarily camouflage xanthelasma. High-coverage concealer and suitable foundation can visually reduce its colour. Non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic products are recommended to avoid irritation.
Is xanthelasma painful ?
No, xanthelasma is painless. It appears as yellowish eyelid plaques without pain. However, some patients experience aesthetic discomfort.
Can xanthelasma affect vision ?
Xanthelasma does not directly affect vision. However, if large, it can cause aesthetic discomfort and, rarely, slightly hinder eyelid opening or closing. Early treatment prevents complications.
