Xanthelasma are small, yellowish cholesterol deposits that appear around the eyes, often causing cosmetic concern and distress. At City Dermatology Clinic London, our aesthetic dermatologists and minor surgery specialists offer safe, effective xanthelasma removal using precise techniques tailored for the delicate eye area. Located in Harley Street and the City of London, our clinic provides both cosmetic-led and medical-grade care, ensuring excellent cosmetic outcomes with minimal scarring.
Xanthelasma can’t be treated effectively with creams or home remedies. Our specialists offer evidence-based, cosmetic-focused procedures for long-term clearance.
Electrosurgical Removal (Preferred Method)
Electrocautery is used to gently remove the cholesterol plaque with precision. This technique is safe for the thin skin around the eyes and offers faster healing compared to older surgical methods.
Surgical Excision (For Larger or Deeper Plaques)
For well-established or raised xanthelasma, surgical excision under local anaesthetic may be recommended. Our surgeons use micro-surgical tools and fine closure techniques to minimise scarring.
Histology (Optional)
In cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or the lesion appears atypical, tissue can be sent for histological testing to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.
Combined Treatments (For Recurrent Cases)
In some instances, multiple plaques or recurring xanthelasma may require a staged approach. Our team will create a tailored treatment plan for cosmetic and medical clarity.
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Consultation | A specialist dermatologist or surgeon assesses the plaque, rules out other skin conditions, and recommends the safest treatment. |
| Local Anaesthetic | A numbing injection is applied around the lesion to ensure a painless procedure. |
| Xanthelasma Removal | The lesion is removed using electrosurgery or minor excision, depending on its size and depth. |
| Aftercare | A small crust may form; healing typically occurs within 7–10 days. Patients are given skincare guidance to avoid pigment change. |
| Optional Histology | Tissue may be tested in select cases. Lab results are typically returned within one week. |
| Symptoms of Xanthelasma | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Flat or slightly raised yellow plaques near eyelids | Localised cholesterol accumulation in the skin |
| Often appears symmetrically around both eyes | May be linked to high cholesterol or lipid disorders |
| Soft, painless, but visible and progressive in size | Genetic predisposition or age-related lipid metabolism changes |
| Cosmetic concern due to appearance on upper/lower eyelids | Can occur even in patients with normal cholesterol levels |
Our team includes dermatologists and minor surgery experts experienced in treating xanthelasma with minimal impact on surrounding skin.
Located in London’s premier medical district, our clinic combines medical rigour with cosmetic precision for facial skin treatments.
We use micro-cautery and fine surgical methods to reduce the risk of pigment changes, scarring, or eyelid distortion.
We assess underlying lipid issues, recurrence history, and skin type to offer personalised treatment plans and long-term results.
Xanthelasma removal at City Dermatology Clinic London is performed by GMC-registered dermatologists and surgical specialists with extensive experience in treating eyelid lesions. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, medical, or both, our expert team provides clean, safe removal with discreet aftercare and full skin recovery support.
Xanthelasma are soft yellow plaques caused by cholesterol build-up under the skin, most commonly around the eyes. They are not dangerous but often increase in size and can cause cosmetic concern.
Topical treatments are generally ineffective. The most successful options involve electrosurgical removal or minor excision – both performed under local anaesthetic in our clinic.
There is a small risk of recurrence, particularly if underlying cholesterol levels remain high. Our doctors provide advice on managing recurrence risk through medical follow-up and lifestyle support if needed.
No – the area is numbed with local anaesthetic. The procedure is quick and well-tolerated, and most patients return to normal activity the same day.
We use cosmetic-led methods to minimise scarring. In most cases, healing is excellent with only a faint mark or natural skin tone change that fades over time.
Our clinic is perfectly located in Central London near a number of conveniently located stations.
Warwick House,
65-66 Queen Street
London
EC4R 1EB
0208 050 5981
Nearest Stations:
4 Harley Street
London
W1G 9PB
0208 050 5981
Nearest Stations:
Experience exceptional care with our team of leading dermatologists in London at our private clinic, dedicated to providing outstanding skin health services in a state-of-the-art facility. Choose City Dermatology Clinic for private, expert dermatological care in the City of London.
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