Cherry Eye Treatment in Delaware County
Cherry eye is one of the most recognizable eye conditions in dogs. While not an emergency, it should be evaluated and treated in a timely manner to help reduce the risk of chronic irritation and long-term tear film dysfunction. At Veterinary Eye Center – Pennsylvania, our board-certified ophthalmologist provides expert surgical correction to preserve gland function and protect your dog's long-term eye health. If you are searching for a veterinary ophthalmologist in Delaware County, our team has the experience and expertise to guide you from diagnosis through recovery.
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Cherry Eye Treatment in Delaware County
Cherry eye is one of the most recognizable eye conditions in dogs — and one of the most important to address promptly. At Veterinary Eye Center – Pennsylvania, our board-certified ophthalmologist provides expert surgical correction to preserve gland function and protect your dog's long-term eye health. If you are searching for a veterinary ophthalmologist in Delaware County, our team has the experience and expertise to guide you from diagnosis through recovery.
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What is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
Cherry eye is the common name for a prolapsed third eyelid gland — medically known as prolapse of the gland of the nictitating membrane. Dogs have three eyelids, and the third contains a gland tucked into the inner corner of the eye. When the connective tissue holding that gland weakens, it prolapses forward and becomes visible as a round, red mass in the corner of the eye.
This is more than a cosmetic concern. The third eyelid gland produces approximately 30–40% of the eye's total tear film. When left untreated, the prolapsed gland becomes chronically inflamed and damaged, significantly increasing the risk of developing dry eye (KCS) later in life.
Signs of Cherry Eye in Dogs
Cherry eye is typically easy to recognize. Signs include:
- A round, pink or red mass visible in the inner corner of the eye
- Increased tearing or discharge
- Pawing or rubbing at the eye
- Redness or irritation around the eye
Cherry eye does not resolve on its own. Early surgical repair preserves gland function and reduces the risk of complications.
Which Dogs Are Most Affected?
Cherry eye can affect any dog, but is most commonly seen in:
- English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs
- Beagles
- Cocker Spaniels
- Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos
- Boston Terriers
- Great Danes
- Neapolitan Mastiffs
Brachycephalic breeds are disproportionately affected due to their ocular anatomy. Cherry eye is also frequently bilateral — if one eye is affected, the other eye is at real risk and will always be evaluated at your appointment.
Cherry Eye Evaluation & Diagnosis
At Veterinary Eye Center – Pennsylvania, evaluation begins with a comprehensive ophthalmic examination to assess:
- Gland prolapse and degree of inflammation
- Corneal health and any secondary exposure damage
- Tear production
- The fellow eye for early or subclinical prolapse
A thorough evaluation ensures we identify any concurrent conditions before proceeding with surgical planning.
Cherry Eye Surgery in Delaware County
Surgery is the recommended treatment for cherry eye. The goal is always to reposition and preserve the gland — not remove it.
When Is Surgery Recommended? Surgery is recommended as soon as cherry eye is confirmed. Delaying treatment increases gland inflammation, reduces surgical success rates, and raises the long-term risk of dry eye.
Surgical Repair Surgical repair aims to reposition and preserve the gland using established, gland-preserving techniques. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your dog's anatomy and degree of prolapse.
Why Gland Removal Is Not Recommended Removing the gland was once common practice but is no longer considered appropriate. Excision eliminates a significant portion of tear production and dramatically increases the likelihood of chronic dry eye (KCS), a lifelong condition requiring daily medication.
After surgery, dogs require:
- An Elizabethan collar during healing
- Topical anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops
- Follow-up examinations to confirm the gland remains in position
Why Choose a Veterinary Ophthalmologist in Delaware County?
Cherry eye repair requires precision and a commitment to gland preservation. At Veterinary Eye Center – Pennsylvania, our board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist serving Delaware County offers:
- Expert surgical technique using gland-preserving methods
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care
- Evaluation of both eyes at every appointment
- Specialist-level follow-up to monitor for recurrence
Choosing a veterinary ophthalmologist in Delaware County ensures your dog's gland function — and long-term eye health — is protected.