What it is
Xanthelasma are yellowish, flat or slightly raised patches that commonly appear around the eyelids or inner corners of the eyes. They are deposits of cholesterol and lipids in the skin, often linked to:
- High cholesterol levels
- Metabolic conditions (e.g., diabetes)
- Genetic predisposition
- Aging skin changes
Though harmless, xanthelasma is often seen as cosmetically undesirable, especially since it appears in such a visible area.
Xanthelasma removal in Korea uses advanced dermatological and cosmetic techniques to eliminate these lesions while preserving the delicate skin around the eyes.
Why it’s done
Patients seek removal for both cosmetic and health-related reasons:
✔ To improve appearance and restore confidence
✔ To smooth skin texture around the eyelids
✔ To reduce emotional discomfort from visible yellow plaques
✔ To rule out or manage underlying health issues (cholesterol, liver function, lipid metabolism)
✔ To achieve K-beauty ideals of bright, even-toned, blemish-free skin
Alternatives
If professional treatment isn’t pursued, alternatives are limited:
➡️ Topical creams (trichloroacetic acid, retinoids) – Sometimes used, but results are unpredictable.
➡️ Diet and lifestyle changes – Helps manage cholesterol but does not directly remove existing lesions.
➡️ Makeup concealment – Only a temporary fix.
➡️ Observation – Harmless if left untreated, but lesions usually enlarge over time.
⚠️ Korean dermatologists generally recommend active treatment, since xanthelasma rarely disappears on its own.
Preparation
Before xanthelasma removal in Korea:
- 🔹 Dermatology consultation → To confirm diagnosis and rule out other eyelid conditions.
- 🔹 Blood tests → Often recommended to check cholesterol and lipid profiles.
- 🔹 Skin evaluation → Size, depth, and location of lesions examined.
- 🔹 Pre-care → Avoid irritating skincare, keep eyelid area clean before procedure.
How it’s Done
Korean clinics use several methods for xanthelasma removal depending on severity:
Non-Surgical Options
- Laser therapy (CO₂ or Er:YAG)
- Vaporizes cholesterol deposits layer by layer.
- Most common method in Korea due to precision and minimal scarring.
- Chemical peeling (TCA application)
- Strong acid applied to break down xanthelasma.
- Less precise than laser, but sometimes used for flat lesions.
- Electrocautery
- Burns off the plaque using controlled heat.
- Useful for small or superficial deposits.
- Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen freezing)
- Rarely used near eyes due to sensitivity.
Surgical Options
- Excision (minor eyelid surgery) → Used for larger, deeper, or recurrent xanthelasma.
- Often paired with blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) if needed.
⏳ Duration: 20–40 minutes depending on method
📅 Sessions: 1–2 for most patients
Recovery
Healing varies depending on the method:
➡️ Laser/electrocautery → Redness and scabbing for 3–7 days, followed by gradual fading.
➡️ Chemical peel → Peeling and pinkness for 1–2 weeks.
➡️ Surgery → 1–2 weeks for stitches to heal, with full recovery in several weeks.
Post-care in Korea includes:
- Cooling masks, LED light therapy, or soothing ointments
- Sunscreen and brightening serums to prevent pigmentation
- Scar-prevention gels or hydrocolloid patches
- Follow-up checkups to monitor recurrence
Complications
Xanthelasma removal is generally safe, but risks include:
⚠ Possible side effects:
- Redness or temporary pigmentation changes
- Mild scarring (rare with lasers, more common with surgery)
- Eyelid irritation or swelling
- Recurrence (common since underlying cholesterol issues may persist)
Korean dermatologists minimize risks with fine laser settings, delicate surgical tools, and scar-prevention care.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korean clinics are renowned for their aesthetic eye treatments, including safe and precise xanthelasma removal.
🇰🇷 Popular Korean Approaches:
- CO₂ laser removal → Most common for precision and minimal downtime
- Er:YAG laser for delicate eyelids → Gentler option with faster recovery
- TCA peel for flat lesions → Applied with controlled technique
- Electrocautery finishing → Sometimes combined with laser for smooth results
- Surgical excision → For large, thick, or recurrent cases
- K-beauty recovery care → Scar gels, brightening creams, LED therapy, and soothing eye masks
✅ Final Thoughts
Xanthelasma removal in Korea blends medical accuracy with cosmetic artistry, ensuring lesions are cleared safely while preserving the delicate eyelid skin. With laser, chemical, and surgical options, Korean dermatologists provide customized treatments based on lesion type, size, and patient preference.
By integrating cholesterol management, precision removal, and K-beauty aftercare, Korea ensures not only smoother eyelids but also confidence and long-term skin health.
