CO2 laser excision of xanthelasma lesions

G. J. Gladstone, H. Beckman and L. M. Elson

Xanthelasma of the eyelids traditionally has been treated by excision, followed by suturing of the defect. A new technique of ablating these lesions using a superpulsed CO2 laser was used to treat a series of nine patients with xanthelasma. Advantages of this technique include: (1) superb hemostasis intraoperatively; (2) magnified view of tissue removal, enhancing complete excision; (3) the absence of suturing; (4) the avoidance of reconstructive procedures; and (5) a high degree of patient satisfaction, with minimal or no postoperative pain.