Dog Eye Surgery: Jim's Eye Lift

When 2-year-old rescue Spaniel Jim arrived at Animal Trust Vets Wrexham, his new owner was concerned about his eyes. By the end of each day, Jim’s upper eyelids would droop over his eyes, leaving them sore and irritated. His vision was also affected, and he was starting to bump into things around the house.

Treating Jim's irritated eyes

Our veterinary team initially prescribed eye drops to help reduce the irritation and inflammation around Jim’s eyes. Once his eyes were more comfortable, we could reassess his eyelids and investigate what was causing the problem. Although the eye drops helped soothe Jim’s eyes, it became clear that the underlying issue was the excess skin around his head.

The weight of this excess skin was pulling on Jim’s eyelids and affecting their normal position. This had resulted in both entropion, where the eyelid rolls inwards, and ectropion, where the eyelid rolls outwards. Both conditions can cause discomfort and irritation and, if left untreated, can contribute to ongoing eye problems.

Jim's eyelid surgery

To correct the problem, Jim underwent a rhytidectomy, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin. Vet Eleanor and Registered Veterinary Nurse Nicole carefully removed the excess skin that was putting tension on Jim’s eyelids. The aim was to reduce the pulling effect of the skin and allow Jim’s eyelids to return to a more natural position.

Following surgery, Jim’s eyelids now sit correctly when he blinks. Most importantly, he is much more comfortable and can see the world around him without the sore and irritated eyes that had been affecting him. We’re so pleased that we could help Jim enjoy life with his new family in comfort.

Eye problems in dogs

If your dog has red, watery or irritated eyes, is squinting or blinking excessively, or their eyelids don't look quite right, it's always worth having them checked by a vet. Eye problems can have a range of causes, and early assessment and treatment can help relieve discomfort and, where possible, protect your dog’s vision.

Signs your dog may have an eye problem include:

• Red or irritated eyes

• Watery or excessive discharge

• Squinting

• Excessive blinking

• Rubbing or pawing at the eyes

• Cloudiness or changes to the appearance of the eye

• Eyelids that roll inwards or outwards

• Changes in vision or bumping into objects

If you notice any changes to your dog's eyes, speak to your vet for advice.