Dog Third Eyelid Gland Prolapse Surgery (Cherry Eye Treatment)
At LifeCare Pet Hospital, we understand how distressing it can be to see your furry friend experiencing discomfort or changes in their eye health. One common condition we treat is third eyelid gland prolapse, also known as "cherry eye." This condition, while treatable, requires timely medical attention to ensure your pet’s vision and comfort are preserved.
What is Third Eyelid Gland Prolapse?
The third eyelid gland is an essential part of your dog’s eye anatomy, responsible for producing tears to keep the eyes moist and healthy. Prolapse occurs when the gland becomes inflamed and slips out of its normal position, creating a visible red or pink mass near the inner corner of the
eye.
Common signs include:
- A reddish-pink swelling in the corner of one or both eyes
- Eye irritation or excessive tearing
- Reduced tear production, potentially leading to dry eye
This condition is more common in certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic dogs (such as Bulldogs and Pugs), due to their unique facial structure. However, it can occur in dogs of any age or breed.
Why Treatment is Essential
If left untreated, a prolapsed third eyelid gland can lead to:
- Chronic dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
- Persistent ocular irritation
- Corneal damage
- Vision impairment
Timely surgical correction is the most effective solution to reposition the gland, restoring its function and protecting your dog’s long-term eye health.
Our Surgical Approach
At LifeCare Pet Hospital, we offer advanced surgical techniques tailored to your pet’s needs. Our primary goal is to reposition the gland securely while maintaining its tear-producing function. Surgical options include:
- Pocket Technique: The gland is carefully repositioned and anchored within a supportive pocket in the third eyelid tissue.
- Orbital Tacking Technique: The gland is secured to the orbital rim or surrounding tissue to prevent recurrence.
In some cases, we may combine techniques for breeds at higher risk of recurrence, such as Bulldogs. We avoid gland removal unless absolutely necessary (due to cancer), as it significantly increases the risk of chronic dry eye.
Post-Surgical Care and Follow-Up
Your pet’s recovery is our priority. After surgery, we provide:
- Topical anti-inflammatory and antibiotic treatments to reduce swelling and prevent
- infection.
- Protective measures, such as an E-collar, to prevent eye rubbing.
- Regular follow-ups to monitor healing and ensure optimal outcomes.
We also educate pet parents on long-term care, including monitoring tear production to prevent dry eye in the future.
Why Choose LifeCare Pet Hospital?
- Experienced Team: Dr. A and our skilled surgical team have extensive experience in eye surgeries, including third eyelid gland prolapse repair.
- Compassionate Care: We prioritize your pet’s comfort and wellbeing, providing gentle and thorough care every step of the way.
- State-of-the-Art Techniques: Our use of proven surgical methods ensures effective and lasting results.
Early intervention can prevent complications and protect your pet’s vision. Contact LifeCare Pet Hospital to schedule an evaluation or learn more about our surgical services. Let us help your furry companion see the world clearly and comfortably again!