Xanthoma surgery

Xanthomas are benign yellowish oblong bumps usually localised to the medial eyelid. They are a result of cholesterol deposits in the skin and underlying tissue (accumulation of cholesterol within macrophages).

Prior to scheduled surgery, patients are requested to:

• stop taking anticoagulant drugs but only in consultation with the family doctor, cardiologist or other specialist,
• present a medical health certificate issued by a specialist stating that the patient is fit for oculoplastic surgery.

During surgery lesions are removed and the skin is sutured. Stitches are removed 5 days after surgery. Immediately after surgery minor swelling and bruising may occur at the operation site. Cold compresses are recommended. Unfortunately xanthomas can recur after a single treatment.