What is Xanthelasma Laser Treatment?
Xanthelasma are yellowish fat deposits that appear on the eyelids, often associated with high cholesterol or genetic factors. Laser treatment is an effective method used to remove xanthelasma without surgical intervention. To ensure quick recovery and minimal scarring after laser treatment, certain precautions need to be taken. So, what should be done after the laser treatment?
Things to Keep in Mind After Xanthelasma Laser Treatment
1. Protect the Area During the First 24 Hours • Avoid water contact with the treated area.
• Refrain from using makeup, creams, or lotions.
• Avoid irritating movements and scratching the area.
2. Do Not Peel Off the Crusts on the Eyelid • Light crusting may occur after laser treatment, which is completely normal.
• Peeling off the crusts can increase the risk of scarring and prolong the healing process.
• Wait until the crusts naturally fall off.
3. Protect from the Sun (Use Sunscreen!) • The skin around the eyes becomes sensitive after laser treatment and is more prone to sun pigmentation.
• Always apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outside.
• Protect the area with sunglasses to shield it from UV rays.
4. Use Moisturizer and the Creams Recommended by Your Doctor • Antibiotic creams or healing ointments may be used as directed by the doctor.
• Keeping the skin moisturized speeds up the healing process and prevents dryness.
5. Follow Hygiene Rules to Prevent Infection • Avoid touching the treated area without washing your hands first.
• Keep your pillowcase clean and pay attention to hygiene rules.
6. Avoid Intense Exercise and Steamy Environments in the First 48 Hours • Excessive sweating can irritate the treated area.
• Avoid hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms, as they may delay the healing process.
7. Stay Away from Smoking and Alcohol • Smoking and alcohol can negatively affect the healing process and slow down cell regeneration.
• They may affect blood circulation and cause the scar to become more noticeable.
8. Avoid Makeup for the First Week • Makeup products like foundation, concealer, or eye makeup can block the pores, hindering the healing process.
• Makeup products may also increase the risk of infection.
Recovery Process After Xanthelasma Laser Treatment
First 24 Hours: • Mild redness and sensitivity may occur.
• The treated area may feel slightly warm.
1-3 Days: • Light crusting may occur; avoid scratching.
Within 1 Week: • Crusts will begin to fall off on their own.
• Redness and sensitivity will decrease.
Within 3-4 Weeks: • The skin will be fully rejuvenated.
• Any slight discoloration will fade over time.
Within 3 Months: • The full effects of the laser will be settled, and the skin will return to its natural appearance.
Will There Be Scarring After Laser Treatment?
✅ The risk of scarring after laser treatment for xanthelasma is low.
✅ However, if sunscreen is not used and the area is scratched, light discoloration may occur.
✅ To reduce the risk of scarring, it is important to use the creams recommended by your doctor regularly.
Can Xanthelasma Recur After Laser Treatment?
Even if xanthelasma is completely removed by laser, it can recur if the underlying cause is not addressed.
The risk of recurrence is higher in patients with high cholesterol.
To reduce the risk of recurrence:
• Regularly check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to balance fat metabolism.
• Limit smoking and alcohol consumption.
Is a Follow-up Necessary After Xanthelasma Laser Treatment?
✅ It is important to attend follow-up appointments as scheduled by your doctor.
✅ If there is excessive redness, swelling, or discharge from the area, contact your doctor immediately.
Conclusion: What to Pay Attention to After Laser Treatment?
Do not let water or cosmetic products touch the treated area within the first 24 hours.
Avoid peeling the crusts to prevent scarring.
Use sunscreen and avoid sun exposure.
Stay away from smoking, alcohol, and excessive exercise.
Follow hygiene rules to reduce the risk of infection.
To prevent recurrence, maintain a healthy diet and control cholesterol.
If you would like more information about the aftercare process following laser treatment, feel free to contact us!
Op. Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim
Ophthalmologist
