Xanthelasma are soft yellowish-white thickenings of the eyelids that are often seen on both sides of the upper or lower eyelids towards the nose. These are usually seen in older people. These are fat deposits.
Xanthelasma can be a sign of increased fat values in the blood and will often be examined if no previous tests are available. Such a connection is found in around 50% of patients.
Any treatment will be on a cosmetic basis. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is most often used, which is carefully applied to the stains as this is a strong corrosive substance. There will be temporary superficial wounds in the skin. Sometimes several treatments are needed to get rid of the xanthelasma, and they can come back. The treatment can be repeated. In the case of high fat values in the blood, reducing these can provide some improvement. Other treatments used are laser treatment and burning.