Treatment guide · Skin Conditions
Xanthelasma Removal in Seoul
Removal of soft yellow plaques on the eyelids, plus a check of the cause behind them.
Ask the clinic for: 황색판종 제거
Quick answer
Xanthelasma are soft, flat yellow plaques of cholesterol-rich fat on or near the eyelids. Seoul clinics usually remove them with CO2 laser, at about ₩100,000–₩500,000 per session depending on size. Treatment takes 15–30 minutes, with redness and scabs for 7–14 days. Small plaques may clear in 1–2 sessions, but they return in many people, so a blood cholesterol check is advised.
Estimated cost in Seoul
₩100,000–₩500,000
Treatment time
15–30 minutes
Downtime
7–14 days
Results show
After healing
Results last
Can recur
Sessions
1–3
Xanthelasma Removal explained
Xanthelasma palpebrarum are yellow deposits of fat-filled cells under the skin of the eyelids, usually near the inner corner. They are benign and painless. About half of people with xanthelasma have raised blood lipids, so it can be a sign worth checking with a doctor.
How Xanthelasma Removal works
CO2 or erbium laser vaporises the plaque layer by layer until the yellow tissue is removed. Other options are surgical excision for larger plaques, or chemical treatment with TCA by a doctor. Because the eyelid skin is thin, doctors may treat large plaques in stages to avoid scarring or eyelid pulling.
Who Xanthelasma Removal is for
- Small to medium yellow plaques on the eyelids
- People who have had or will have a cholesterol check
- Those wanting quick removal with a short procedure
- Plaques that are growing or affect appearance
- People willing to manage recurrence
Who should avoid Xanthelasma Removal
- Very large or deep plaques, which may need an eye or plastic surgeon
- Active eye infection
- People who have not had other eyelid growths ruled out
- Those prone to keloids, unless a doctor agrees
- Anyone expecting it never to come back
What happens at the appointment
- Doctor examines the plaques and asks about cholesterol and medical history
- Advice to get a blood lipid test if not done recently
- Numbing cream or local anaesthetic and eye shields
- Laser removal of the plaque
- Healing ointment and aftercare instructions
Aftercare and flying home
- Apply ointment until scabs fall off
- Avoid eye makeup and rubbing for 1–2 weeks
- Use sunglasses and sunscreen around the eyes
- Follow up with your own doctor about cholesterol
- Watch for any new plaques and treat them early
Side effects and risks
- Redness, swelling and scabs for 7–14 days
- Temporary darkening or lightening of the eyelid skin
- Recurrence, which is common
- Rarely, scarring or eyelid pulling (ectropion) with large plaques
- Rarely, infection
How much does Xanthelasma Removal cost in Seoul?
₩100,000–₩500,000 (about US$75–370) — The cost depends on the size and number of plaques and the method used. Larger plaques needing staged laser or surgery cost more. Prices are estimates and vary between clinics.
Why get Xanthelasma Removal in Korea?
Seoul dermatology clinics commonly treat eyelid growths and have CO2 lasers readily available. Many visitors combine removal with a health check-up, since Korean health screening centres also offer lipid tests.
Prices are estimates gathered for Seoul clinics and change with brand, dose and promotions — confirm a quote with the clinic before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice; a doctor will assess whether a treatment suits you at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does xanthelasma removal cost in Seoul?
Xanthelasma removal usually costs about ₩100,000–₩500,000 per session in Seoul (roughly US$75–370), depending on size.
Does xanthelasma removal hurt?
With numbing cream or local anaesthetic most people feel little during treatment. The area may sting for a few hours afterwards.
Does xanthelasma come back after removal?
Yes, it returns in many people over months or years. Managing cholesterol, if raised, may help lower the chance.
What is the downtime, and when can I fly?
Expect redness and scabs for 7–14 days. You can fly, but keep the area clean and protected.
Is xanthelasma a sign of high cholesterol?
It can be. About half of people with xanthelasma have abnormal blood lipids, so a blood test and a talk with your doctor are recommended.
Is laser or surgery better for xanthelasma?
Laser suits small to medium plaques and heals without stitches. Large or deep plaques may be better removed surgically by an eye or plastic surgeon.
Where to get it in Seoul
Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.
Pins show each clinic's neighbourhood or nearest station, not the exact door. Not every clinic offers every treatment — ask before you go.
Ready to book? Message a clinic in English
Compare foreigner-friendly clinics by neighbourhood, opening hours and nearest subway exit, then ask for a quote on WhatsApp. No middleman fees.