01/07/2026
Entropion surgery in animals is a common veterinary procedure used to correct entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing hair and eyelashes to rub against the eye. This rubbing can be very painful and can damage the cornea if left untreated.
What is entropion?
The eyelid (upper, lower, or both) turns inward
Causes chronic irritation, tearing, squinting, redness
Can lead to corneal ulcers, scarring, or vision loss
Commonly affected animals
Dogs (most common): Shar-Pei, Chow Chow, Bulldogs, Retrievers, Rottweilers
Cats (less common, often secondary to pain or trauma)
Horses (especially foals)
Also seen in livestock and exotics occasionally
What is entropion surgery?
The goal is to roll the eyelid outward so it sits in a normal position and no longer contacts the eye.
Common surgical techniques
Hotz–Celsus procedure (most common):
A small crescent-shaped piece of skin is removed from the eyelid; suturing causes the lid to evert.
Temporary tacking sutures (especially in young animals or foals):
Used when entropion may resolve as the animal grows.
Staged or combination procedures:
Severe cases (e.g., Shar-Pei) may need multiple surgeries.
When is surgery recommended?
Persistent entropion causing pain or corneal injury
Failure of medical management (lubricants, antibiotics)
Adult animals with conformational entropion
Emergency surgery if a corneal ulcer is present
Anesthesia & recovery
Performed under general anesthesia
Surgery usually takes 30–60 minutes
Most animals go home the same day
Post-op care
E-collar to prevent rubbing
Topical eye medications (antibiotics ± anti-inflammatories)
Oral pain medication if needed
Sutures removed in 10–14 days
Risks & prognosis
Risks
Over- or under-correction
Temporary swelling or bruising
Rare infection or scarring
Prognosis
Excellent in most cases
Early treatment prevents permanent eye damage
Some breeds may need repeat procedures
Special notes by species
Puppies & kittens: Often managed first with temporary tacking
Cats: Usually secondary entropion—treat underlying cause
Foals: Emergency tacking to protect the cornea; surgery delayed if possible
This is Smokey a rescue Maine C**n who needed entropion surgery in both eyes. He is on the road to recovery and pain free eyes!
