The doctor evaluates the size and depth of the yellow patch to discuss removal options, a possible blood test, and the risk of recurrence.
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Xanthelasma presents as a yellow or orange patch that is soft to the touch. These fat deposits form in the skin cells of the eyelid.
These patches often appear near the inner corner of the eye, on the upper or lower eyelid. They are harmless and do not hurt, but their appearance can be bothersome.
The doctor examines the patch to confirm that it is indeed a xanthelasma. This is an opportunity to discuss blood work to check for a possible link with cholesterol or blood fats, and to talk about the limits of a potential removal.
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
Recognizing xanthelasma
Discover how these patches form near the eye, their size, and how they can evolve over time.
01
Visible deposit near the eye.
02
Development over several months.
03
Flat or raised patch.
04
Patches present on both sides.
Discomfort related to the appearance of the patches.
Difficult to conceal with makeup.
Doubt about another eyelid problem.
Possible link to cholesterol.
The choice depends on the size, depth and distance from the lashes. Each method carries a risk of a mark and recurrence remains possible.
"
My evaluation does not stop at the visible appearance: I often use this clinical sign as an opportunity to check, preventively, your overall cardiovascular health.
Dr. Karen Dzolang, family doctor
Appearance of the patches
The size, depth, and distance from the lashes help the doctor choose the best removal option, by evaluating the risk of a mark and possible recurrence.
Observation of the eyelids
Evaluating the yellow patch
The thickness and contours help to understand how the patch is embedded in the skin.
01
Atypical appearance
A plaque that bleeds, becomes painful, red, or changes rapidly in appearance must be checked by the doctor.
Signs
•
Pain or redness
•
Bleeding or crust
•
Atypical appearance
02
Thickened
A thicker plaque that forms a small visible raised area on the skin of the eyelid.
Signs
•
Visible thickness
•
Depth of the plaque
•
Risk of a mark
03
Flat patch
A very thin plaque that looks like a simple yellow colouring on the skin of the eyelid.
Signs
•
Yellow-coloured plaque
•
Near the nose
•
Minimal elevation
04
Extensive
Yellow plaques that join together or cover a large part of the skin near the eye.
Signs
•
Multiple plaques
•
Possible return of the plaque
•
Well-defined borders
Blood fats
01
The doctor confirms that it is a xanthelasma. You will be able to discuss blood tests or removal options.
02
Skin cells capture fats and accumulate under the surface.
03
The accumulation of fats becomes visible and forms a yellow or orange plaque on the skin of the eyelid.
Risk factors
Click a factor to learn more
If your xanthelasma changes rapidly, becomes red, bleeds, or causes blinking discomfort, it's time to see a doctor.
A yellow plaque that grows quickly or changes appearance in a few weeks must be checked by the doctor.
Urgent
A classic yellow plaque does not hurt. Redness or pain signals another problem.
Urgent
If the colour or texture of the plaque is unusual, the doctor might suggest a biopsy.
Urgent
If the yellow plaques appear early, the doctor will often suggest a blood test to check the blood fats.
Urgent
Very large plaques make removal more complex.
Urgent
Family doctor and graduate of the Université de Montréal, in good standing with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), Dr. Karen Dzolang serves as medical director for the CARE network. For eyelid lesions and skin plaques near the eye, she helps frame the evaluation, possible indications, treatment limits and situations where another medical opinion is preferable.
