Use of Erbium : YAG laser in the treatment of palpebral xanthelasmas

OBJECTIVE: In light of the research and the use of lasers in the therapy of xanthelasmas, the authors report their experience in the treatment of this pathology with Erbium:YAG laser. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 30 patients, all female, 70 xanthelasmas were tre ated with Erbium:YAG laser, 65 (93%) of which were on the upper eyelid and 5 (7%) on the lower eyelid, varying from 1 X 1.5 mm to 11 X 20 mm in size. Spots with a diameter of 1.6 mm, energy of 300 mJ, frequency of 1-5 Hz and in a number varying were used in relation to the extent of the pathology. RESULTS: In all cases, the appearance and functional results were good, wit hout leaving scars and/or dyschromia. CONCLUSIONS: Erbium:YAG laser, in the treatment of xanthelasmas, is a paras urgical method that is simple to perform and because of the successful aest hetic and functional results, is a valid alternative to the more traditiona l treatment methods.