Question Details:

I was in a rush and forgot that my laptop (Lenovo R61) was in my carry on. It went partially through the screening machine at the airport before it was discovered. There is now a black circle on the screen. The computer seems to be working fine.

Answer:

From what you are saying it seems that you damaged your laptop screen. It is very possible that the damage is permanent and you should contact a laptop repair center to buy a new screen.