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Eyelid Xanthelasma Removal

While not harmful, eyelid xanthelasmas can be unsightly, draw attention, and create self-consciousness. Our plastic surgeons at The Centre for Minor Surgery (CFMS) offer xanthelasma removal in Toronto to help patients from Barrie, Mississauga, and surrounding cities get rid of these yellow patches that form around the eyes and detract from their appearance and confidence. Our scar-minimizing techniques leave behind little evidence of the procedure.

What are eyelid xanthelasmas?

Xanthelasmas are collections of cholesterol that form in the skin and create unsightly yellow plaques. They most often occur in the upper and lower eyelids. While they can be associated with having high cholesterol, this is not always the case.

Do eyelid xanthelasmas need treatment?

Eyelid xanthelasmas are harmless, not painful, and do not need to be removed; therefore, xanthelasma removal is not covered by OHIP. Because xanthelasmas can be associated with high cholesterol, it is important to have your cholesterol checked by your primary care physician. It’s important to know that lowering high cholesterol levels will not cause xanthelasmas to go away.

How much does eyelid xanthelasma removal cost in Toronto and Mississauga?

At our clinic in Ontario, Canada, xanthelasma removal is priced per eyelid and varies with the size and location of the lesion. We will provide you with a specific price prior to your procedure. However, you can view general pricing information on our pricing page.

What happens during xanthelasma removal?

Xanthelasma removal at The Centre for Minor Surgery is a precise, in-office procedure that safely treats the delicate area around the eyes while supporting optimal cosmetic results.

During your procedure, you can expect:

• Careful numbing of the area: A small amount of local anesthetic is gently injected around the xanthelasma. You may feel a brief sting, but the area quickly becomes fully numb, making the procedure painless.
• Meticulous, precise removal: Your provider uses advanced surgical techniques to carefully remove the white or yellow plaques while preserving the surrounding healthy skin. Special attention is given to the thin, sensitive eyelid tissue to ensure accuracy and safety.
• Strategic incision placement: Incisions are thoughtfully placed to support natural-looking results and help minimize visible scarring in this highly visible area.
• Refined closure techniques: The area is typically closed with fine, dissolving sutures to promote smooth healing and eliminate the need for suture removal.
• Protective aftercare: A small amount of antibiotic ointment is applied immediately after treatment to protect the area and support proper healing.

Together, these steps reflect our commitment to precision and patient comfort throughout every xanthelasma removal procedure.

What’s the healing process after xanthelasma removal?

Healing after xanthelasma removal is typically straightforward, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days. You may experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising around the eyelids for the first several days, which gradually improves. If sutures are used, they are often dissolvable and do not require removal. Keeping the area clean, applying ointment as directed, and avoiding rubbing or strain on the eyelids will support proper healing. Most incisions fade well over time.

Is there a scar after xanthelasma removal?

As with all surgeries, a scar is left behind after xanthelasma removal.  It generally heals very well and fades into a very fine line in the eyelid folds. The aesthetic benefit of the procedure generally far outweighs the resulting scar. Occasionally, xanthelasmas may redevelop over time.

Xanthelasma Removal FAQs

Will xanthelasma go away on its own?

No, xanthelasma does not typically go away without treatment. Once formed, the deposits tend to remain or slowly enlarge over time unless they are removed.

Can you still develop xanthelasma with normal cholesterol?

Yes. While xanthelasma is often associated with elevated cholesterol or lipid levels, many people who develop it have normal bloodwork. Genetics and other factors can also play a role.

What are some warning signs for the early stages of xanthelasma?

Early xanthelasma usually appears as small, soft, flat yellowish patches on the inner corners of the upper or lower eyelids. These areas are typically painless and may gradually become more noticeable or spread over time.

What’s the difference between xanthoma and xanthelasma?

Xanthelasma is a type of xanthoma that specifically appears on the eyelids. Xanthomas are broader cholesterol-rich deposits that can develop in other areas of the body, such as the elbows, knees, hands, or tendons.

Visit our FAQs page for more information about minor surgery at our centre.

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