Eye surgeries in pets are often necessary when they suffer from serious ocular conditions that cannot be treated with medication alone. Whether it’s due to trauma, disease, or congenital issues, veterinary ophthalmic surgery is a specialized area that requires precision and expertise. At Atlas Animal Hospital, we provide advanced eye surgical procedures to ensure your pet’s vision and overall quality of life are preserved. This blog will give you a detailed overview of eye surgeries for pets, including the types of conditions treated, the procedures involved, and what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery.

Common Conditions Requiring Eye Surgery in Pets

Several conditions can lead to the need for eye surgery in pets, ranging from traumatic injuries to progressive diseases. The most common reasons pets undergo eye surgery include:

1. Cataracts: Cataracts are a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment or blindness. Cataracts can be congenital, age-related, or a result of injury or disease (e.g., diabetes). If left untreated, cataracts can significantly reduce a pet’s quality of life.
2. Glaucoma: This condition occurs when there is an increase in pressure within the eye, often due to fluid buildup. Glaucoma can lead to permanent damage to the optic nerve and, eventually, blindness if not treated. In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve the pressure and preserve the pet’s remaining vision.
3. Entropion: Entropion is a condition in which the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to irritate the cornea. This can lead to chronic discomfort, corneal ulcers, and even permanent scarring of the eye if left untreated. Surgical correction of the eyelids is required to prevent further damage.
4. Ectropion: Ectropion occurs when the eyelids droop outward, causing exposure to the conjunctiva (the mucous membrane of the eye) and resulting in dryness, irritation, and infection. Surgery can be used to correct the position of the eyelids.
5. Corneal Ulcers and Injuries: Traumatic injuries to the eye or infections can lead to corneal ulcers or scarring. In severe cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to repair the damage and restore function to the eye.
6. Tumors or Growths: Growths in or around the eye, including tumors or cysts, can cause significant discomfort and, if malignant, can lead to further complications. Surgery to remove these growths may be essential for your pet’s health and comfort.

Types of Eye Surgeries for Pets

Depending on the condition, different surgical approaches may be used to address ocular issues in pets. Here are some of the more common surgeries:

1. Cataract Surgery: This procedure is performed to remove the cloudy lens in the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The goal is to restore vision and prevent further complications associated with cataracts. The surgery is delicate and requires the removal of the cataract in a precise manner to prevent damage to surrounding structures.
2. Glaucoma Surgery: In cases where glaucoma cannot be controlled with medication, surgical options such as trabeculectomy (creating a drainage hole) or cyclophotocoagulation (a procedure to destroy part of the tissue responsible for fluid production) may be employed to reduce intraocular pressure. In severe cases, enucleation(removal of the eye) may be recommended to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
3. Entropion Surgery: This procedure involves the removal of excess skin around the eyelid and tightening of the eyelid to correct the inward rolling. This helps prevent the eyelashes from rubbing against the cornea, reducing the risk of ulcers and long-term damage.
4. Ectropion Surgery: For ectropion, surgery typically involves removing a small portion of the skin and tissue to allow the eyelid to return to its proper position. This prevents the exposed conjunctiva from becoming dry and irritated, reducing the risk of secondary infections.
5. Corneal Transplantation: In cases of severe corneal damage, such as deep ulcers or scarring, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision. The damaged cornea is replaced with a donor cornea, though success depends on the extent of the damage and the health of the pet.
6. Exenteration or Enucleation: If the eye is severely damaged due to trauma, disease, or cancer, it may need to be removed. Enucleation involves the complete removal of the eye, while exenteration includes the removal of the eye as well as surrounding tissues (including the eyelids and conjunctiva). This is typically done to alleviate chronic pain or prevent the spread of cancer.
7. Ocular Prothesis: In cases where the eye must be removed, an ocular prosthesis (a custom-made artificial eye) can be fitted for cosmetic purposes. This procedure does not restore vision, but it can help maintain a more natural appearance.

Preparing for Eye Surgery in Pets

Preparation for eye surgery begins with a thorough examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Your pet will need to undergo diagnostic tests, including:

• Ocular exam: The veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s eyes, checking for signs of disease, injury, or infection.
• Imaging: In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasounds or CT scans may be used to assess the internal structures of the eye and surrounding areas.
• Blood tests: These tests help ensure your pet is healthy enough for surgery and anesthesia.

In the days leading up to the surgery, your veterinarian will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your pet, including whether they need to fast before the procedure and any medications they should take.

Aftercare Following Eye Surgery

Post-surgical care is crucial to ensure the success of the procedure and the recovery of your pet. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Pain Management: Your pet may experience some discomfort after the surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief medications.
2. E-collar: An Elizabethan collar (e-collar) is often recommended to prevent your pet from scratching or rubbing their eyes during the healing process.
3. Follow-up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure no complications arise. This may include checking for infection, monitoring for signs of inflammation, and assessing the pet’s vision.
4. Activity Restrictions: To ensure proper healing, your pet will likely need to avoid vigorous activity for several weeks. This includes limiting running, jumping, and playing.
5. Medications: Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to prevent infection and reduce swelling.

Conclusion

Eye surgeries are often the best option for treating serious eye conditions in pets and preserving their vision and comfort. While the procedures may sound intimidating, with proper care and expertise, pets can recover successfully and regain their quality of life. At Atlas Animal Hospital, our team of experienced veterinary surgeons is dedicated to providing the best possible outcomes for your pet’s ocular health.

If you suspect your pet may need eye surgery or if they have been diagnosed with an eye condition, it’s crucial to consult with our specialists. Early intervention and treatment can make a significant difference in preserving your pet’s vision and overall well-being.