Treatment:

If you have a disease that causes increased blood lipids, treating the condition may help reduce the development of xanthomas.

If the growth bothers you, your doctor may remove it. However, xanthomas may come back after surgery.

Expectations (prognosis):

The growth is non-cancerous and painless, but may be a sign of another medical condition.

Complications:

The growth may cause a change in how you look. This is called cosmetic disfiguring.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if xanthomas develop. They may indicate an underlying disorder that needs treatment.