Ectropion
This condition is characterised by an outward turning eyelid and causes the lower eyelid to appear droopy. With the eyelid being everted; it leaves the inner eyelid surface exposed and prone to irritation.
Hereditary (developmental) ectropion is common in young dogs, whilst acquired ectropion’s can develop as a result of nerve damage or injury. This condition is commonly found in the following breeds:
· St. Bernard
· Great Danes
· Bloodhounds
· Bullmastiffs
· Newfoundlands
· Basset Hounds
· Bulldogs
· Spaniels
Symptoms
Animals with the disorder will likely suffer from some of the following symptoms:
1. Protrusion of the bottom eyelid leading to the exposure of the tissue below the eyeball.
2. Excessive tearing of the eye.
3. Redness of the eye and other signs of irritation.
4. Recurring bacterial conjunctivitis (Pink eye).
5. A consistent pawing/rubbing of the eye
6. Signs of discomfort.
Treatment
Pets with a less severe case will generally tolerate the condition by treating the inflammation, however should the ectropion be of a dire nature surgical intervention will be needed to repair it. In a few cases an ectropion with extreme swelling and inflammation around the eye it may be recommended to perform two procedures. This recommendation comes in order to avoid over-correction.
The surgery will restore the normal contour of the eyelid and can be performed by a general veterinarian surgeon. The procedure is usually successful
