Cherry Eye Repair Surgery in Dogs

What It Is, Why It's Needed, What to Expect, and How We Support You

Why Might Your Pet Need This Surgery?

"Cherry eye" is a term used to describe prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, where the tear gland in the inner corner of your dog's eye becomes visible and swollen. This red, fleshy mass is not only unsightly-it can lead to:

  • Dry eye or decreased tear production over time
  • Chronic irritation, discharge, or infection
  • Secondary damage to the cornea

Surgical repositioning of the gland is recommended to restore its normal location and preserve tear production.

Veterinary Referral: Recommended, Not Required

While a veterinary referral is not required for cherry eye surgery, we do recommend that your pet be evaluated by your primary care veterinarian before pursuing surgery. Many cases of third eyelid gland prolapse are straightforward, but there are situations where additional diagnostics may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of periocular swelling or inflammation.

You are welcome to schedule surgery with us directly. However, please be aware:

  • If your pet arrives for cherry eye surgery and the condition is not a true gland prolapse or is not surgically correctable at the time of presentation, we will not be able to proceed with surgery.
  • In these cases, we will recommend that you follow up with your referring or primary
  • We want to ensure that surgery is appropriate, safe, and effective for each patient.

A veterinary referral-whether through a treatment plan, set of medical records, or brief communication—can help ensure that your pet receives the most appropriate care.

If you're a pet owner, we're happy to help—but we encourage you to consult your veterinarian first if there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis or best treatment options.

What Does the Surgery Involve?

Cherry eye surgery is performed under general anesthesia. A small pocket is created in the third eyelid tissue, and the prolapsed gland is tucked back into place and sutured to prevent future prolapse. We use techniques that preserve gland function and tear production.

This surgery is typically quick and well tolerated by young, otherwise healthy patients.

Are There Alternatives?

Topical medications may reduce swelling temporarily but do not correct the prolapse. Surgical replacement (not removal) is the treatment of choice to preserve tear function. Gland removal is generally discouraged due to the high risk of developing dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) long-term.

What Are the Benefits?

  • Restores normal appearance to the eye
  • Reduces chronic irritation or infection risk
  • Preserves tear function and long-term eye health

What Are the Risks?

  • Anesthetic complications
  • Recurrence of gland prolapse
  • Infection or suture-related irritation
  • Risk of dry eye (rare with modern techniques)

What's Included in Our Surgical Care

Surgery Package: $320.00

Price includes:

  • A personalized anesthesia plan with multimodal pain control
  • IV catheter placement and fluids
  • Anesthesia and multiparameter monitoring
  • Surgical replacement of the prolapsed gland
  • Post-op stabilization and in-clinic recovery
  • Take-home medications (pain control, eye drops)
  • Discharge instructions and recovery plan

When Additional Care Is Needed

Most pets undergoing cherry eye surgery do not require overnight care and are discharged the same day. This procedure is typically well tolerated in otherwise healthy patients, and we expect a smooth, same-day recovery.

However, in rare cases, more intensive or ongoing care may be needed. Because we are an outpatient-only clinic, transfer to an overnight hospital may be recommended if:

  • Your pet experiences unexpected complications during recovery
  • They are very young, old, or systemically sick
  • They need 24-hour IV medications, stabilization, or intensive monitoring

If this happens, we will coordinate a transfer to an emergency or specialty facility. Any costs associated with that transfer and continued care will be the owner’s responsibility.

Aftercare: What to Expect at Home

Your pet will go home with:

  • Prescription medications for pain and inflammation
  • Topical eye drops or ointment
  • An e-collar to prevent rubbing or injury
  • Instructions for recheck or suture removal

Mild discharge, redness, or blinking is common for a few days after surgery. We're here to help every step of the way.

Have Questions?

Please reach out to our team. We are happy to review records, coordinate with your veterinarian, and guide you through this process.