Enucleation is the surgical removal of an eye. It may be recommended when an eye is painful and can't be saved, such as with severe injury, glaucoma, tumors or infections that don't respond to treatment.
Most pets adjust remarkably well and often feel better once the source of pain is gone. The surgery is done under general anesthesia with pain control, and we'll guide you through recovery at home.
Common Reasons a Pet May Need an Eye Removed
Enucleation is usually recommended only when other treatments, such as medication or other procedures, can't save the eye or keep it comfortable. Before recommending surgery, your vet will examine the eye carefully and discuss every option with you, so you can make the decision that's best for your pet. Your vet may suggest enucleation for dogs or cats with:
- Glaucoma that has caused blindness and ongoing pain
- Severe injury such as a ruptured eye or major trauma
- Tumors inside or around the eye
- Deep ulcers or infections that haven't responded to treatment
- Long-term inflammation that keeps the eye painful despite treatment
- A bulging or displaced eye that can no longer be saved
Caring for Your Pet at Home After Enucleation
After surgery, the eyelids are closed with stitches, and some swelling and bruising are normal for the first few days. Your pet will usually wear a cone to protect the area from scratching or rubbing. Give any prescribed medications exactly as directed, and keep your pet calm and quiet while the incision heals.
A recheck visit lets your vet look at the incision and remove stitches if needed. Most pets adapt quickly to having one eye, especially if vision in that eye was already lost. Approach your pet from their seeing side, and keep furniture in familiar places at first. Call us if you see discharge, increasing swelling or signs of pain.
Questions about Enucleation Surgery?
Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.
Enucleation Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions
How do pets adjust to having one eye?
What does my pet look like after eye removal surgery?
Is enucleation surgery painful for my pet?
How long does it take to recover from eye removal?
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