A nevus is a common congenital birthmark that can appear as a pigmented or non-pigmented patch on the skin, eye, or connective tissue. While often benign, larger nevi may cause cosmetic concerns or health risks. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, the Vascular Birthmark Institute offers expert diagnosis and personalized care for pigmented and non-pigmented nevi.
What Is a Nevus?
A nevus (plural: nevi) is a congenital overgrowth of cells that most often appears on the skin but can also develop on the eyes or connective tissue. Nevi can be pigmented, presenting as brown or black moles, or non-pigmented, resulting in lighter patches on the skin. While many nevi are small and harmless, larger nevi, such as congenital melanocytic nevi, can cover significant areas of the body and may carry an increased risk of complications.
Signs & Symptoms of Nevi:
- Presence of small, medium, or large patches on the skin
- Pigmented spots that are brown, black, or tan in color
- Non-pigmented (lighter) patches on the skin
- Raised or flat areas that may have a smooth or irregular texture
- Growth or darkening of a nevus over time
- Itching, irritation, or tenderness in some cases
- Nevi located on the skin, eyes, or connective tissue
- Rare risk of malignant transformation (especially in larger congenital nevi)
Types of Nevi
Pigmented Nevi
Pigmented nevi are the most recognizable form of nevi, typically appearing as brown, black, or tan spots on the skin. These result from an overgrowth of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. They can vary in size and texture, ranging from small, flat spots to larger, raised moles. While most pigmented nevi are harmless, some, particularly larger congenital melanocytic nevi, may require monitoring due to a slightly increased risk of skin cancer.
Non-Pigmented Nevi
Non-pigmented nevi lack the typical darker coloration seen in pigmented nevi. Instead, they appear as light or flesh-toned patches on the skin. These nevi are caused by an overgrowth of skin cells without increased melanin production. Non-pigmented nevi may still have a raised or textured surface, making them noticeable despite their lighter color. Non-pigmented nevi that change in size, shape, or cause discomfort should be evaluated by experienced specialists.
Treatments for a Nevus
When you visit the Vascular Birthmark Institute for a nevus evaluation, our team will carefully examine the size, location, color, and type of your nevus. We may also recommend imaging or a biopsy to assess for any potential health risks. Based on this detailed assessment, Dr. Waner and Dr. O will curate a customized treatment plan. Treatment options can range from observation to surgical care depending on your goals and the nature of the nevus.
Laser Treatment
If you have a pigmented nevus, laser treatment may be an option to lighten its appearance. Lasers emit a concentrated beam of light that targets the pigment (melanin) within the nevus cells. This energy breaks up the pigment, allowing your body’s natural healing processes to gradually fade the spot. While laser treatment can improve cosmetic appearance, it may not completely remove the nevus, and, in some cases, the pigmentation can return over time.
Surgical Removal
For larger or concerning nevi, surgical excision is often the most definitive treatment. During this procedure, the nevus and a small margin of surrounding tissue are carefully removed to ensure clearance. If the nevus covers a substantial area, skin grafting (using skin from another part of your body) or local tissue rearrangement (moving nearby healthy skin) may be necessary to restore a natural look. Our doctors use advanced plastic and reconstructive techniques to minimize scarring and optimize cosmetic results.
Medical Management
Although medications and topical creams cannot remove a nevus, they may help manage symptoms like itching, irritation, or inflammation. Our doctors might recommend specialized creams, oral medications, or soothing therapies if your nevus causes discomfort. This can improve your quality of life, especially if you choose not to pursue surgical treatments.
Observation and Monitoring
In many cases, if your nevus is small, stable, and does not pose any health risks, observation is the best course of action. We will schedule regular check-ins to monitor for any changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms. Early detection of any concerning features allows us to intervene promptly if necessary, ensuring your long-term health and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Schedule Your Consultation
Vascular Birthmark Institute is a leading center for the expert diagnosis and treatment of nevi of all types and sizes. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, our medical team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care. Whether you are concerned about the appearance of nevi or potential health risks, we offer advanced treatments tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and explore your options for managing nevi.
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