Third Eyelid Cartilage Eversion

This is when the third eyelid cartilage is folded over so that the free edge of the third eyelid points away from the eyeball towards the lower eyelid.

Breed Predisposition

The inheritance of the condition is unknown, but may develop if the cartilage grows too quickly

Cause

The cause of this condition is unknown but is common in certain breeds. It also seems to be common in younger dogs. It is possible for the problem in both eyes, although the other eye can develop the problem sometime after the eversion initially presents. In some cases the eversion of the third eyelid cartilage can be associated with a cherry eye which is a prolapse of the third eyelid gland (see information sheet).

Treatment

Medical therapy i.e. drops & ointments are not effective. Surgery is indicated to remove the deformed third eyelid cartilage. The eversion of the third eyelid can also cause conjunctivitis.

Surgery

The deformed cartilage is surgically removed. The affected third eyelid is temporarily stitched across the eye for 7 to 14 days. You will not be able to see the eye as it will be covered by the third eyelid. The eye may open as the stitches start to stretch.

The surgery requires a general anaesthetic and half a day in hospital. We find that in most cases there is very little swelling or postoperative discomfort after the surgery. In some breeds especially the Basset the gland of the third eyelid may prolapse causing a cherry eye. We always check for this at the time of the surgery.

In some cases this may not become apparent after the swelling related to the cherry eye and the surgery resolves. This means that more surgery may be required.