After a tumor is removed, can it come back? Yes, a tumor can come back after it is removed. Some tumors are more likely to return than others. Tumors that tend to return are usually treated with radiation and/or chemotherapy in addition to the surgery. That's why it is important to have repeat CT or MRI scans after surgery, so that if the tumor returns it can be treated again, before you get very sick. Answered by Dr. Herbert Fuchs, pediatric neurosurgeon, Duke University, Durham July, 2007