Xanthelasma in Miami, FL

What Are the Benefits of Xanthelasma Removal?

Often, the more significant issue with xanthelasma is that they can be quite noticeable, and can leave the eyelids with an undesirable appearance due to the distinguishable color. They can occur in patients of all skin colors.

If you have xanthelasma present, it is very important to have an oculofacial plastic surgeon evaluate your condition before considering treatment, as these skin lesions often have deeper roots that extend into the underlying eyelid muscle layer. As such, they are notoriously a little more complicated to treat, and in many cases, they can have a higher rate of reoccurrence.

What is the Procedure for Xanthelasma Removal?

For xanthelasma removal procedures that Dr. Lewen decides are best to do in the office, a quick injection of anesthesia is used to effectively numb the area being treated. Typically, these injections are only minimally uncomfortable for a brief period, lasting 20 seconds or less. Afterward, you will not experience any discomfort during the procedure itself. For patients who may be somewhat more anxious, Dr. Lewen may also prescribe a light oral sedative that is usually taken about 45 minutes to one hour prior to the start of the procedure. In these cases, you will need to have someone present to drive you home after your procedure.

If Dr. Lewen determines that your case may be somewhat more complex, or if you desire additional procedures to be performed at the same time, you may also elect to have this procedure performed in an outpatient surgical center, where you can be treated with IV sedation to help you fully relax for the duration of the procedure. In this case, you will experience no discomfort at all, however, additional facility and anesthesia costs may apply.

What is the Recovery like After Xanthelasma Removal?

Dr. Lewen provides all post-surgical patients with an adequate supply of post-operative pain medication. In our experience with this procedure, most patients do not report an excessive amount of discomfort following xanthelasma removal. Some mild soreness can be common for the first few days, but most patients who have undergone this procedure will report that they do not require much pain medication at all.

Typically, only mild bruising and swelling are seen after xanthelasma removal and most patients will report that this improves significantly within the first week or two. Any stitches that are placed are usually removed at about one week after the procedure, or they will dissolve on their own.

The potential for scarring can vary greatly depending on the size of the xanthelasma, the exact location on your eyelids, your skin tone, your attention and compliance with Dr. Lewen’s post-operative instructions, and any history of thicker scar formation in you or in your family. Most often, scar formation in this area is minimal and Dr. Lewen prides himself on paying particular attention to the fine details of proper surgical planning, surgical technique, and post-operative scar management in order to maximize your cosmetic outcome.

As Dr. Lewen discusses with all patients during the consultation, dry eye issues are a very common side effect of any eyelid procedure. Usually, these issues are short-lived and tend to resolve quickly following your xanthelasma removal. Dr. Lewen will advise you on the best way to proactively prepare for any dry eye issues that you may encounter during your recovery period.

For most patients with xanthelasma, only one surgical procedure will be enough to yield gratifying results. In rare cases, the lesions can potentially return over time, and additional treatments may be required.

How Much Does Xanthelasma Removal Cost?

Dr. Lewen spends about 30 to 45 minutes with you during a consultation to determine if xanthelasma removal is your best option and if any other procedures, such as blepharoplasty, or worthwhile. After the appointment, we discuss the cost of the procedure, as well as our options for financing.