Entropion Surgery in Dogs

Eye Entropion in Dogs 

Entropion is primarily a genetic abnormality that causes the dog's eyelids to roll inward. This inward positioning means that your pup's fur and eyelashes rub against the surface of the eye often causing pain, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, perforations, and in some cases the development of pigment on the cornea which interferes with your dog's vision. 

Entropion is a common problem in several breeds including Toy and Miniature Poodle, Akita, Staffordshire Terrier, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Dalmatian, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Weimaraner, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Pug, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel, Vizsla, Yorkshire Terrier and Clumber Spaniel.

Signs That Your Dog May Have Entropion

Signs of entropion typically appear early with most dogs being diagnosed before they reach their first birthday. Squinting, excessive tearing and holding eyes shut are the most common signs of entropion. Although in some cases flat-faced dogs will show no outward signs of discomfort.

Treatment for Entropion in Dogs

Puppies will sometimes grow out of entropion and no treatment will be required. However, if the condition is causing discomfort a procedure known as 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can help to relieve symptoms in young dogs.

Medical treatments with antibiotic ointments can be prescribed to decrease damage to the cornea, but medications will not resolve the entropion itself. To correct the issue surgery will be required.

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.

In order to avoid over-correcting this condition (which could lead to an outward rolling of the eyelids)  two surgeries may be performed, the first being the primary (major) correction and the second being a minor corrective surgery.

Blepharoplasty is a surgical eyelid reconstruction. During the blepharoplasty process, the excess skin and muscle of your dog's outer lids will be removed. Any excess skin that causes skin folds may also be removed. Then your dog's eyelids will be tightened. 

Before and after the entropion surgery your dog may be prescribed medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants to treat conditions resulting from the irritation caused by entropion.

Entropion Surgery in Dogs - Cost

The cost of entropion surgery for dogs varies depending on several factors including the severity of your dog's case, the overall health of your dog, and even where you live. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of your dog's entropion surgery speak to your vet. Most veterinary clinics are happy to provide clients with a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with surgical procedures.

Prognosis for Dogs with Entropion

Following surgery, most dogs recover well 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.