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Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma is a benign yellowish cholesterol deposit that forms under the skin, typically around the eyelids. While harmless, it may gradually enlarge over time and become a cosmetic concern.
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Removal is performed using minor surgical techniques under local anaesthetic.
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Minor Surgery &Â Treatments
Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma is a benign yellowish cholesterol deposit that forms under the skin, typically around the eyelids. While harmless, it may gradually enlarge over time and become a cosmetic concern.
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Removal is performed using minor surgical techniques under local anaesthetic.
Benign Moles
A benign mole is a harmless one (not canerous or pre-cancerous).
Benign moles include Intradermal naevus, compound naevus, congenital naevus, epidermal naevus, benign pigmented naevus.
Depending on the type of mole, its position on the body and its size, they can be removed by shave excison or resection.
Resection is when the mole is cut out and the wound stitched closed.
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The choice of the above two treatments depends on the type of mole and an assessment of the best scar outcome possible.
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There is a small chance of the mole coming back with shave excision but in most cases, the lesser scarring outweighs any concerns about the small risk of it recurring in the future.
Mole removal is a local anaesthetic procedure.
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Moles should be sent for histology and both the above two removal methods allow for a sample to be sent.
Suspicous Moles
Cancerous or pre-cancerous (dysplastic) naevi.
If you have a mole that has noticeably changed, especially over a period of 3-6 months, or that you are worried about, it is best to get it seen to.
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The NHS offers a Two Week Rule pathway whereby the mole is seen by a Dermatologist within 2 weeks of being referred by your GP. It is good advice to get any suspicious moles seen by your GP who can advise if the mole should be dealt with by the NHS.
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Private treatment has a role if:
• You are having difficulty getting a mole checked on the NHS,
• cannot get to the hospital appointment at the given time in         work hours etc
• the anxiety of waiting, even on the two week pathway, gets          too much.
• You are concerned about the mole despite being told it is          benign.
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Suspicious moles are treated by resecting with a thin margin of skin around them and the wound stitched closed. We do not offer shave excision for moles we are suspicious of.
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All our histology is carried out by consultant histopathologists.
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GPÂ Referrals
Procedure
Xanthelasma removal is a minor surgical procedure that typically takes 20–40 minutes, depending on the size and location of the deposits.
Aftercare &Â Recovery
Healing Time: The area usually heals within one to two weeks, depending on the removal method and size of the deposits.
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Dressings: A dressing may be applied, and the area should be kept clean and dry.
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Scarring: Some scarring may occur, but this typically fades over time, especially with proper aftercare.
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Activity Restrictions: Strenuous activities should be avoided for a few days to prevent strain on the wound site.
FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions...
Will xanthelasma return after removal?
While the removed deposits will not return, new xanthelasma can form over time, especially in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
Is xanthelasma removal painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so there is minimal discomfort. Some soreness may occur afterward.
How long does it take for the wound to heal?
Most wounds heal within one to two weeks, depending on the removal method and size of the deposits.
What causes xanthelasma to develop?
Xanthelasma is caused by a build-up of cholesterol deposits under the skin, often around the eyelids. While it can occur in people with normal cholesterol levels, it is more common in those with high cholesterol, lipid disorders, or metabolic conditions.
Can xanthelasma be removed without surgery?
Xanthelasma can sometimes be treated using chemical peels, laser therapy, or cryotherapy, but these methods may not be as effective for larger or deeper lesions. Surgical excision is the most reliable method to fully remove the deposits and prevent regrowth.
Alternative Names for
Xanthelasma
Clinic Locations
This service is available from our following clinics: