Why You Should Never Have Surgery for Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma is a yellow or orange plaque that develops on the eyelids, primarily associated with lipid abnormalities. The statement that "xanthelasma should never be treated with surgery" is inaccurate. Surgical treatment is not absolutely contraindicated, but it is also not the first-line treatment method. Reasons for this include the feasibility of non-surgical treatment, surgical risks and complications, high technical requirements for surgeons, postoperative recovery and care, and the possibility of recurrence. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Feasibility of Non-Surgical Treatment
By adjusting lifestyle habits and using medications to control underlying conditions such as lipid abnormalities, diabetes, and liver or biliary diseases, xanthelasma can be effectively prevented and treated. Surgery is considered only as a last resort when xanthelasma severely affects appearance or causes discomfort.
2. Surgical Risks and Complications
Surgical excision of xanthelasma carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, and scar formation. Particularly in this sensitive area around the eyes, surgical risks are higher and may affect the patient's vision and appearance.
3. High Technical Requirements for Surgeons
Surgical removal of xanthelasma requires a high level of technical skill from the surgeon, as flap techniques from plastic surgery are involved. If the excision area is too large or the flap advancement distance is excessive, it may lead to local eyelid deformity and postoperative difficulty in forming a natural and smooth double eyelid crease.
4. Postoperative Recovery and Care
After surgery, patients require a prolonged period of recovery and care, including wound healing, infection prevention, and avoiding irritation. This may cause inconvenience and additional financial burden to the patient.
5. Possibility of Recurrence
Even after surgical removal of xanthelasma, recurrence remains possible since the underlying cause of lipid metabolism disorder remains unresolved. This necessitates continued dietary control and moderate exercise by the patient post-surgery to improve lipid levels.
Patients should maintain good living habits and follow a healthy, scientific diet in daily life to improve treatment outcomes when managing diseases.