Xanthelasma are harmless, slow-growing yellowish cholesterol deposits that form under the skin on or around the eyelids, often linked to high cholesterol, underlying lipid disorders, or genetic factors. Common symptoms include soft, flat, or raised yellow plaques, often appearing symmetrically near the inner corners of the eyes. While not physically painful, they do not go away on their own and can be removed via surgical excision, laser, or plasma treatment for cosmetic reasons.