What are the risks involved in treatments to remove spots on the sclera? (photo)

Spots on the eye can be several different conditions, and the risks involved depend on what the spot is or what it is suspected to be. It is not possible to give a diagnosis based on a photograph, and hence you need to see a doctor if you want to know the risks specifically for your situation.

The following answer applies to conjunctival nevi. I would like to emphasise again that this may not apply in your case and you need to see a doctor for a full consultation first.

Conjunctival nevi are 'moles' or 'freckles' on the surface of the eye, and are in most cases benign. Their removal is usually elective/optional and involves a small surgical procedure to remove them. If the nevus is large, a conjunctival graft may be taken from another part of the eye to cover the operated area.

The risks of operating on it are minimal and includes:

• Mild local scarring
• Residual pigmentation
• Mild bleeding (subconjunctival haemorrhage)
• Infection

If spots are obviously growing larger or becoming darker in colour, it becomes more urgent to see a doctor and have the lesion removed so that it can be checked by a pathologist under the microscope, to determine its exact nature.

The image isn't clear on whether the pigmented lesion is on the conjunctiva(appears as a brown spot) or the sclera side. Removal of lesion is usually not recommended for benign-appearing lesions that do not change in size or appearance. Do consult by attending your Ophthalmologist's session and learn more about monitoring such lesions.

If on the conjunctiva, and you will feel compelled to remove it. This usually entails a fairly straightforward procedure akin to removing a skin-mole.

The removal of pigmented scleral lesions will usually require a superficial delamination of the sclera, and is also not recommended for benign lesions.