If I have a nevus surgically removed from my eye, can it return?
A nevus is a benign (harmless) collection of pigmented (colored) cells that can occur on various parts of the eye including the conjunctiva (transparent membrane covering the white of the eye), iris (colored part of the eye), or choroid (layer of the eye containing many blood vessels that is underneath the white of the eye). They may be surgically removed if they have characteristics suspicious for melanoma (cancer). If a nevus is removed completely, they do not grow back. However, there may be some pigmented cells left behind after surgery which may slightly grow larger. More worrisome is if the nevus is in fact a melanoma, which can exhibit rapid growth. If you note any recurrence of a nevus, you should see your ophthalmologist for evaluation.
Our ophthalmologists have answered thousands of questions about eye diseases and conditions. Search our entire Ask an Ophthalmologist collection to find the answers you need.Read our important medical disclaimer.You can also browse by topic to see how physicians answered questions about a specific eye condition:
Ask a New Question
Not every question will receive a direct response from an ophthalmologist. However, we will follow up with suggested ways to find appropriate information related to your question. Medical disclaimer
By submitting your question, you agree to be answered by email. Your email address will only be used to answer your question unless you are an Academy member or are subscribed to Academy newsletters.
Get ophthalmologist-reviewed tips and information about eye health and preserving your vision.
All content on the Academy’s website is protected by copyright law and the Terms of Service. This content may not be reproduced, copied, or put into any artificial intelligence program, including large language and generative AI models, without permission from the Academy.