What is Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma is the accumulation of fat in the form of yellowish, soft, and raised plaques on the eyelids. It is generally harmless, but in some cases, it may be associated with high cholesterol, cardiovascular diseases, or metabolic disorders.
Xanthelasma can occur in people of all age groups, but some risk factors and age groups are more prone to this condition.
Who is More Likely to Have Xanthelasma?
Middle-Aged and Older Adults (Ages 40-60)
Xanthelasma is most commonly seen in individuals aged 40 and above.
As people age, skin elasticity decreases, and cholesterol buildup becomes easier.
Xanthelasma is more commonly seen in individuals over 50 because the risk of cardiovascular diseases increases.
Individuals with High Cholesterol Levels
Over 50% of people with xanthelasma have been found to have high cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Individuals with high LDL (bad cholesterol) levels are at greater risk for xanthelasma.
Individuals with Familial Hypercholesterolemia (Genetic High Cholesterol)
Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of xanthelasma.
If there is a family history of high cholesterol, early heart attacks, or strokes, the risk of xanthelasma is higher.
Xanthelasma may appear at an earlier age (from the 20s) in individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia.
Diabetic Patients
Individuals with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing xanthelasma.
Diabetes affects fat metabolism, leading to increased cholesterol and triglyceride buildup in the body.
Obese Individuals and Those with Metabolic Syndrome
Excess weight can disrupt the body’s fat metabolism, leading to xanthelasma formation.
Xanthelasma is also more common in individuals with fatty liver disease.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Patients
High blood pressure can increase fat buildup in the arteries, leading to xanthelasma.
The risk of xanthelasma is higher when hypertension and high cholesterol occur together.
Smokers and Alcohol Consumers
Smoking and alcohol can disrupt cholesterol metabolism, contributing to xanthelasma formation.
Smoking accelerates plaque formation in blood vessels, leading to fat buildup on the eyelids.
Are Women More at Risk than Men?
Studies suggest that xanthelasma is slightly more common in women than in men.
Hormonal changes and increased cholesterol levels after menopause can increase women’s risk.
Which Age Group is More at Risk for Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma can occur at any age, but it most commonly appears after the age of 40.
What Can Be Done to Reduce the Risk of Xanthelasma?
✅ Healthy Diet: • Avoid trans fats and processed foods.
• Consume foods rich in Omega-3 (fish, walnuts, flaxseeds).
• Balance your cholesterol levels by consuming vegetables and fiber-rich foods.
✅ Regular Exercise: • Engage in at least 150 minutes of cardio exercise per week to accelerate fat metabolism.
✅ Check Your Cholesterol and Blood Values: • Regular blood tests to monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• If your cholesterol is high, you may start medication under the supervision of a doctor.
✅ Quit Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: • Smoking and alcohol can disrupt fat metabolism, leading to xanthelasma.
✅ Control Diabetes and Blood Pressure: • If you have diabetes or hypertension, ensure regular doctor visits.
If you notice symptoms of xanthelasma, it’s important to consult a doctor to check for underlying health problems.
Can Xanthelasma Be Treated?
Xanthelasma does not go away on its own, but it can be completely eliminated with the following treatments:
✅ Laser Treatment (CO2 Laser, Er:YAG Laser)
• Xanthelasma tissue is destroyed by laser.
• It is a minimally invasive method, and recovery time is fast.
✅ Surgical Intervention (Excision Method)
• Xanthelasma plaques are surgically removed.
• It provides permanent results, but may require stitches.
✅ Chemical Peeling (TCA Treatment)
• Xanthelasma can be reduced by peeling the skin surface with trichloroacetic acid.
• It is especially effective for small and superficial lesions.
✅ Radiofrequency Treatment
• Xanthelasma tissue is vaporized using high-frequency energy.
• It is a non-surgical method with a quick recovery process.
It is important to consult a specialist doctor to determine the most suitable treatment method.
Conclusion: Who is Most Likely to Have Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma is most commonly seen in people aged 40 and above.
It is more common in individuals with high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
It may appear at an earlier age in individuals with a genetic predisposition.
Healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of xanthelasma.
If you notice symptoms of xanthelasma on your eyelids and have risk factors, you can contact us for a detailed evaluation!
Op. Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim
Ophthalmologist
