Entropion Surgery for Dogs and Cats
Entropion, the rolling in of one or more eyelids, is a frequent and significant problem in pets. When an eyelid turns in, the hair on the lid rubs against the eyeball, causing pain and damage to the cornea. At Animal Eye Clinic, Dr. Robert M. Gwin diagnoses and surgically corrects entropion in dogs and cats at our Tulsa and Oklahoma City offices.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Entropion?
Entropion is one of the most common eyelid problems in pets. Some breeds, such as English Bulldogs, Chow Chows, Shar Peis, and other breeds with heavy facial folds, are predisposed to it, but it can also occur randomly in any breed of dog or cat. Entropion may affect the upper lid, lower lid, or both, and can occur in one or both eyes.
Signs of Entropion
A typical entropion causes:
- Squinting (blepharospasm)
- Excessive tearing
- Redness and eye irritation
- Rubbing or pawing at the eye
- Progressive corneal disease
The corneal disease can include erosions and corneal ulcers, blood vessel growth (neovascularization), pigment, and scarring. If left untreated, entropion can lead to rupture of the globe and blindness.
Entropion Treatment
Most entropion requires surgical correction. In general, a carefully measured section of skin just below the eyelid margin is removed and the incision is sutured, which turns the eyelid back out to its normal position. Entropion should be corrected fairly quickly to relieve discomfort and prevent ongoing damage to the eye.
Because entropion can occur alongside other eyelid problems such as distichia or ectopic cilia, Dr. Gwin performs a complete eye examination before surgery so every source of irritation is addressed. Learn more about our eyelid surgery and other procedures.
Entropion FAQs
What causes entropion in dogs?
Entropion is often inherited and is common in breeds such as English Bulldogs and Chow Chows, but it can also develop in any breed of dog or cat.
Is entropion painful for my pet?
Yes. The inward-rolled lid lets hair rub the eye, causing squinting, tearing, and corneal damage that can be very uncomfortable.
Can entropion be fixed without surgery?
Most cases require surgery to permanently correct the eyelid position and protect the cornea.
How is entropion surgery performed?
A carefully measured strip of skin just below the eyelid margin is removed and sutured, turning the eyelid back to its normal position.
What happens if entropion isn’t treated?
Untreated entropion can cause corneal ulcers, scarring, pigment, and in severe cases rupture of the eye and blindness.
How long is recovery after entropion surgery?
Most pets recover comfortably within a couple of weeks, with a recheck to evaluate healing and eyelid position.
Help Your Pet Find Relief From Entropion
Call (918) 632-0508 (Tulsa) or (405) 751-3821 (Oklahoma City) to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Gwin.