Common Presentations, eyelid and adnexal issues
Cherry Eye Surgery (Third Eyelid Gland Prolapse)
This procedure surgically replaces the prolapsed tear gland into its normal position and secures it there to preserve natural tear production.
Removal of the gland is avoided whenever possible, as it plays an important role in keeping the eye healthy and moist. Likewise, leaving the gland prolapsed long-term may lead to chronic irritation, inflammation, reduced gland function, or secondary damage to the ocular surface.
Redness, swelling, and discharge are common during healing. Your pet will usually require eye drops and must wear a protective collar for several weeks. The success rate is generally high, although in some cases the gland may re-prolapse and require further surgical replacement. Whilst manual replacement of a prolapsed gland can be performed, it is almost always a very short term solution and the gland will inevitably re-prolapse and require surgical fixation.
Entropion Surgery / Ectropion Repair
Ectropion repair corrects outward rolling of the eyelids, which is often accompanied by over long eyelids, which require an additional surgical shortening procedure. This additional length and outward rolling can results in irritation, discharge, excessive tearing and damage to the surface of the eye.
Ectropion repair corrects outward rolling of the eyelids, which may result in irritation, discharge, debris accumulation, recurrent conjunctivitis, and poor protection of the eye surface.
These procedures reposition the eyelids to improve comfort, reduce ongoing irritation, and better protect the cornea. Fine stitches are placed around the eyelid and are usually removed or dissolve during healing.
Mild swelling and bruising are expected for several days after surgery. Most pets recover quickly and show noticeable improvement in comfort soon after the procedure.
Occasionally, further adjustment may be required.
As with all eyelid procedures, it is important to recognise that eyelid shape and facial conformation can change over time as animals grow, mature, or age. In younger patients — particularly certain breeds — temporary procedures such as eyelid tacking or hyaluronic acid injections may sometimes be recommended before definitive corrective surgery is performed. In older patients, age-related changes around the eyes may also alter eyelid position over time. For this reason, some pets may require additional correction procedures in the future. Surgical techniques and long-term treatment plans are always tailored individually and discussed in detail during consultations.
Distichiasis Treatment (Cryotherapy / Electroepilation)
This treatment removes abnormal eyelashes that rub against the surface of the eye and cause irritation, tearing, or corneal ulcers.
The affected hairs are treated using freezing therapy (cryotherapy) or a small electrical current (electroepilation) to destroy the hair follicles and reduce regrowth.
Swelling and temporary irritation are common after treatment. Temporary or sometimes permanent lightening or loss of eye pigmentation may occur following cryotherapy. Some hairs can regrow white, which can be obvious in darker haired dogs, and repeat treatment may sometimes be necessary.
Some hairs can regrow over time, and repeat treatment may sometimes be necessary.
Third Eyelid Flap
This temporary protective procedure uses the third eyelid as a natural “bandage” to help protect the cornea during healing.
It is commonly used for selected corneal ulcers, superficial injuries, or after certain eye procedures. There will be no vision from the affected eye whilst the flap remains in situ.
Mild discharge and swelling are normal during healing. Because the cornea cannot be fully examined while the flap is in place, regular monitoring is important. Despite placement of the third eyelid flap, ongoing use of eye medications remains essential.
The flap is usually removed after two weeks, once healing has improved.
Medial Canthoplasty
This reconstructive eyelid procedure shortens and reshapes the inner corner of the eyelids to improve eye protection and reduce irritation.
It is most commonly recommended for flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds prone to excessive eye exposure, chronic discharge, corneal ulcers, or irritation.
The aim of medial canthoplasty is to correct medial entropion, or rolling in of the over long eyelids on the nasal side of the eyes, improving eyelid function and protecting the surface of the eye from abrasion by hairs. Mild swelling and bruising are expected after surgery, and most pets recover very well with improved long-term comfort and a reduced risk of future ocular complications. A protective collar is essential to prevent damage to the surgical site, and regular eye drops and follow-up visits remain very important during recovery.
Diamond Eye Surgery
This specialised reconstructive eyelid procedure corrects complex eyelid conformational problems, most commonly in giant breeds with excessive facial skin folds and loose skin around the eyes. The surgery aims to improve eyelid function, reduce chronic irritation, and better protect the surface of the eye. Swelling and bruising are expected during healing. In some patients, minor adjustments or additional procedures may occasionally be required as tissues settle over time.
Large breeds such as Mastiffs, St. Bernards and Leonbergers can suffer from Diamond Eye / Ectropion
This procedure removes small eyelid masses or growths while preserving normal eyelid function and comfort.
A small section of the eyelid is carefully removed and reconstructed using fine stitches.
The removed tissue may be submitted for laboratory analysis if needed.
Mild swelling, discharge, and temporary irritation are common after surgery. Most pets heal quickly and comfortably with minimal long-term effects on eyelid function.
More extensive or complex eyelid mass removals are also performed and may require individually planned reconstructive techniques. In some cases, biopsy sampling before surgery may be recommended to help guide treatment planning. Occasionally, management of more advanced cases may involve collaboration with additional specialist services to achieve the best possible outcome.
