Suzy's Secret to Brighter Eyes: What Is Conjunctival Nevus Removal Surgery?

Suzy, previously a member of disbanded K-pop girl group missA recently underwent surgery to remove a conjunctival nevus from her eye. The dark spot, which had been visible on the white of her eye for years, is now gone, leaving her eyes looking clearer and brighter. Fans have praised her new look, with comments like "Her eyes look more defined" and "She gives off a fresher vibe."

What Is a Conjunctival Nevus?

A conjunctival nevus is a pigmented spot on the white part of the eye, caused by excess melanin deposits in the conjunctiva. These spots often appear around the iris and can grow larger over time, especially after puberty. While they are more common in people with higher melanin activity, such as East Asians, they affect about 1 in 2,500 people in Korea.

Conjunctival Nevus Removal Surgery, Simple Cosmetic Procedure

Conjunctival nevi typically don't affect vision or cause pain, but they can make the eyes look dull. For cosmetic reasons, many people choose to have them removed. Since most nevi are superficial, they can be easily eliminated using methods like laser treatments, minimal excision, or cauterization. The procedure usually takes 5-10 minutes, with patients resuming daily activities immediately after.

Conjunctival nevi can be linked to genetics, long-term contact lens use, UV exposure, wind, dust, and trauma. To prevent them, avoid rubbing your eyes and protect them from sunlight. However, if a nevus appears suddenly after age 40, it's advisable to see an eye specialist for a thorough check-up to rule out malignancy.