CO2 laser excision of xanthelasma lesions

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.