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Cherry eye

‘Cherry eye’ is an informal term to describe prolapse of the third eyelid gland from its normal position, so that it appears as a pink or reddish smooth mass above the edge of the third eyelid. The gland does not function normally when it is in the wrong position, and may also cause minor discomfort, conjunctivitis and ocular discharge. In some cases, the gland becomes very inflamed, red and enlarged.

What are the treatment options for cherry eye?

The third eyelid gland is responsible for 30 per cent of the total tear production for the eye. Historically, the prolapsed gland was removed, but the current recommendation is to replace the gland instead. If the gland is removed, the eye has an increased risk of developing dry eye due to low tear production, which requires medical treatment for the rest of the animal’s life.

There is no medical treatment to replace the gland, although antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops or ointment are often used to reduce the inflammation in the short term. The recommended treatment is an operation to permanently replace the gland to its normal position. There are many techniques described, but the most common performed is the ‘pocket’ technique. A small pocket underneath the eye itself is created, into which the gland is replaced and then sutured to prevent it from prolapsing again.

In some animals, the gland may prolapse intermittently so that, at times, the eye appears normal. An operation is still necessary in this instance.

What is involved?

Your pet will need a general anaesthetic for the operation and will usually stay in the hospital for the day. All sutures placed will be dissolvable, so suture removal will not be necessary. A Buster collar may be required to prevent self-trauma to the eye region for the first few days after surgery.

Aftercare

Antibiotic and/or anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointment will be prescribed for seven to 10 days. Oral medication will also usually be prescribed for five to 10 days. Rest is advised for the first five to seven days. Swimming or bathing of the head area should be avoided for the first 14 days. The third eyelid may appear more prominent for several days, but this resolves in most cases.

Recurrence

The ‘pocket’ technique is approximately 90 per cent successful. However, there are certain breeds in which the condition is more difficult to treat and a second operation may be required.

Cherry eye can affect one or both eyes, although usually there is a delay between the first and second eye being affected.