A guide to xanthelasma: How high cholesterol can manifest on the skin
A Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Huayi Zhang intimately understands the connections between the health of the skin and the health of the rest of the body. What we see on the outside often reflects what is going on inside. The skin also impacts our internal health; as the body’s largest organ, it is responsible for many essential functions – from protecting other organs to regulating temperature. Expertly treated by Dr. Zhang, xanthelasma is among those conditions that tend to develop in individuals with certain health risks. As with all treatment plans for our patients in Allen, Frisco, Plano, Prosper, Princeton, Anna, Celina, Lucas, and other nearby areas from our McKinney, TX, office, we must first understand the true nature of your skin concern. Only then can we effectively and safely treat it at its “source.”
What is xanthelasma?
These waxy, yellow-orange growths often occur on or near the eyelids. However, they also develop on the palms, lower legs, and other areas. When they are in areas other than the eyelids, these growths are known as xanthoma.
What health conditions are associated with xanthelasma?
These characteristic growths can be red flags for high cholesterol. In fact, they are often referred to as “cholesterol deposits.” When fats or lipids (cholesterol) build up under the skin, such growths can occur. Xanthelasma is linked so strongly to cholesterol levels because half of all individuals with these growths have high cholesterol, which puts them at increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. It’s also thought that inflammation and other factors play a role in the development of these deposits because 50% of those with the condition have normal cholesterol levels.
Is xanthelasma itself harmful?
No. These growths on their own are not cause for health concern. Again, not everyone with xanthelasma has high cholesterol. However, it is important to ensure no underlying health problem may be responsible for your skin concerns.
Take Control of Your Skin Health – Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you have noticed xanthelasma or other skin growths, it’s important to have them evaluated by a professional. These growths, commonly found on the eyelids, can sometimes signal elevated cholesterol levels or cardiovascular concerns. Our board-certified dermatologist is here to help you understand your condition and recommend the best treatment options. Don’t wait—schedule your appointment at Bluebonnet Dermatology today! Call us at (469) 663-8838 to book your visit. We proudly serve McKinney, Plano, Allen, Frisco, and the surrounding areas.
Do they go away on their own?
This is one of those conditions where you cannot take a wait-and-see approach – because you would be waiting forever! In fact, xanthelasma has been known to grow larger over time. If you dislike how they look, and we understand they can stick out considerably from the surrounding skin, then Dr. Zhang is happy to explore options to restore your healthy, smooth, even, and radiant skin.
How do you treat xanthelasma?
Dermatologists like Dr. Zhang can recommend everything from extreme cold or “freezing” procedures (cryotherapy) to the opposite – the use of heat (ED&C or Electrodessication & Curettage). Excision or removal with surgery may be a possibility, too. These are not the only techniques that skin specialists use. During an evaluation and consultation at our office, we can discuss the most appropriate treatments for you.
What are some other potential signs of heart problems on the skin?
Heart disease can manifest in a variety of different ways on the skin and nails, from clubbing (where the fingers swell and the nails turn downward) to cyanosis (or a bluish tinge to the skin). The skin can truly be the gateway to the health of the rest of you, so it’s essential to only trust your care to the best – Bluebonnet Dermatology and our highly qualified specialist, Dr. Zhang. She has treated thousands of patients over the past 10 years and takes great pride in supporting the health of her friends and neighbors from across the greater North Dallas area, McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Plano, Prosper, Princeton, Anna, Celina, and Lucas.
Call (469) 663-8838 today to schedule an appointment at our McKinney, TX, office.
