Entropion occurs in many dog breeds. This condition causes a pooch's eyelids to roll inwards, leading to pain, irritation and other secondary eye issues. In this post, our Long Island veterinarians describe what's involved in entropion surgery for dogs.
Eye Entropion in Dogs
When a dog's eyes are affected by the genetic condition entropion, the eyelids roll inward. Due to this inward position, your dog’sdersr7 98sfur and eyelashes will frequently rub against the eye's surface, causing eye infections corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, pain, perforations and in some cases, the development of pigment on the cornea, which interferes with your dog's vision.
Entropion is a common issue in several breeds including the Basset Hound, Akita, Miniature and Toy Poodles, Cocker Spaniel, Dlamation, Bulldog, Staffordshire Terrier, English Toy Spaniel, English Springer spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Great Dane, Gordon Setter, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Labrador Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Mastiff, Weimaraner and others.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Entropion
Entropion symptoms usually appear early in life, with most dogs being diagnosed by their first birthday. The most common symptoms of entropion include excessive tearing, holding the eyes shut and squinting. Flat-faced dogs may not show obvious signs of discomfort in some cases.
Treatment for Entropion in Dogs
Puppies can sometimes grow out of entropion without any treatment. If the condition is causing discomfort, a procedure known as 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can help to alleviate symptoms in young dogs.
Medical treatments such as antibiotic ointments can be prescribed to reduce corneal damage, but medications will not cure the entropion. Surgery will be required to correct the problem.
Entropion Surgery in Dogs - Blepharoplasty
If entropion continues to be an issue as your puppy reaches their first birthday surgery can be performed, to correct the issue and relieve your pup's discomfort.
To avoid overcorrection of this condition (which could result in outward rolling of the eyelids), two surgeries may be performed, the first being a primary (major) correction and the second being a minor corrective surgery.
Before and after the dog entropion surgery your pup may be prescribed medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants to treat conditions resulting from the irritation caused by entropion.
The cost of entropion surgery for dogs varies depending on several factors but tends to range between $500 - $1800. To find out how much this surgery will cost to correct your pup's eye condition contact your vet for details, or request a referral to have your dog seen by our Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist at Carolina Veterinary Specialists in Long Island.
The Prognosis for Dogs with Entropion
Dog entropion surgery recovery is generally very good, and the condition does not return. That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to their excessive folds of skin around the eyes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.