Conjunctival Nevus (Eye Freckle) Laser Removal

CONJUNCTIVAL NEVUS (EYE FRECKLE) LASER REMOVAL

OVERVIEW

Conjunctival nevus, commonly called an eye freckle, is a usually benign pigmented spot on the clear surface tissue of the eye (the conjunctiva). Many are harmless and only require observation. When appropriate, selected cases may be treated for cosmetic improvement or when clinical evaluation suggests removal is reasonable. Laser removal is one treatment option used in carefully chosen patients after a complete eye examination.

WHAT A CONJUNCTIVAL NEVUS IS

A conjunctival nevus is similar to a skin mole but located on the white part of the eye or near the colored iris. Most appear during childhood or early adulthood and remain stable. Some may show mild color or size changes over time. Because a small number of pigmented lesions can mimic more serious disease, proper diagnosis by an ophthalmologist is required before any treatment is considered.

WHO MAY BE A CANDIDATE

Laser removal may be considered when all of the following apply:

1. The lesion has been fully examined and documented by an eye specialist.

2. Features are consistent with a benign conjunctival nevus.

3. The patient requests removal mainly for cosmetic reasons or repeated irritation.

4. There are no suspicious signs that require surgical biopsy instead of laser treatment.

If suspicious features are present, traditional surgical excision with laboratory analysis is usually preferred over laser treatment.

HOW LASER REMOVAL WORKS

Laser treatment uses controlled light energy to target pigmented cells within the superficial conjunctival tissue. The goal is to lighten or remove visible pigmentation while minimizing damage to surrounding structures. The procedure is performed in a clinical setting using topical anesthesia. Treatment time is typically short.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE

1. The eye is examined and photographed for documentation.

2. Numbing drops are applied.

3. A protective device may be placed to keep the eye steady.

4. Laser pulses are delivered to the lesion.

5. The eye is rinsed and medicated after treatment.

Most patients tolerate the procedure well.

RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE

Mild redness, foreign body sensation, and light sensitivity may occur for several days. Lubricants and prescribed eye drops are commonly used after treatment. Vision is usually unchanged. Follow up visits are required to monitor healing and response. Some lesions may need more than one session.

BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS

Potential benefits include improved cosmetic appearance and reduced surface pigmentation. Limitations include incomplete removal, recurrence of pigment, or need for additional treatment. Not all nevi are suitable for laser therapy. Final cosmetic results vary among individuals.

POSSIBLE RISKS

Although generally safe when properly selected, risks can include surface irritation, persistent redness, scarring, uneven pigmentation, dry eye symptoms, infection, or rarely vision disturbance. Careful screening reduces these risks.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTES

All pigmented eye lesions must be evaluated by an ophthalmologist before treatment. Laser removal is not a substitute for medical diagnosis. If there are warning signs such as rapid growth, irregular borders, feeder vessels, or atypical appearance, biopsy-based surgical removal is recommended instead.

A personalized consultation and full eye examination are required to determine if conjunctival nevus laser removal is appropriate for you.