XANTHELASMA

Xanthelasma is a condition which is produced around the eyelids. Characteristically, it is bilateral, which means that both eyes are affected. The principal feature of this condition is the development of yellow plates, which are related to an excess of cholesterol. Normally these lesions are situated in the internal canthus, in the superficial and middle layers of the dermis and from here they can spread to the entire periorbital region. The treatment of choice is surgical resection, which is performed under local anesthetic below the skin (subcutaneously). If they are small, it is possible that stitches will be unnecessary and if they are bigger and stitches are needed, these are removed when the tissue has healed. The patient should know that these types of lesions can recur.