Eyelid Surgery in Dogs for Tumor Removal: Is It Necessary?

Eyelid tumors in dogs are common and can pose health risks if untreated. Our vets in Charlotte discuss dog eyelid surgery for tumor removal, emphasizing benefits, risks, and when surgery is necessary.

What types of tumors affect the eyelids?

A dog's eyelid is an extension of its skin. This means that the same types of tumors that can develop in the skin can also develop in the eyelid. Eyelid tumors in dogs are typically non-cancerous (benign) and are commonly found in middle-aged and older dogs. Dogs have various types of eyelid tumors, each with its own characteristics and implications.

Meibomian Gland Adenomas

These cells have the potential to over-multiply and form non-cancerous (benign) tumors known as meibomian gland adenomas, which are the most common eyelid tumors found in older dogs.

There are also less common malignant (cancerous) tumors called meibomian gland adenocarcinomas. These tumors usually begin as a small, smooth mass coming out of the opening of a meibomian gland.

However, over time, the tumor can grow into a large mass with an irregular surface, leading to discomfort or vision problems.

Papilloma

Viral papillomas, caused by the papilloma virus, typically appear in young dogs. These growths resemble warts and often have a bumpy, cobblestone-like appearance.

They can be pink, white, or pigmented. Dogs may have multiple papillomas simultaneously, and they may develop around the eyes and in the mouth at the same time.

Papillomas may resolve on their own, but not always. While generally harmless, they can sometimes irritate or lead to secondary infections.

Melanomas 

Melanocytes are cells located at the edges of the eyelids and are responsible for producing pigment. However, they can also multiply excessively and lead to the formation of melanoma tumors.

When melanomas occur at the edge of the eyelid, they typically appear as flat, brown-to-black masses that grow outward.

Alternatively, melanomas can develop on the haired eyelid skin, presenting as a single, round, darkly pigmented mass on the eyelid itself. Some of these melanomas remain localized, while others may spread to other body parts.

Squamous Cell Carcinomas 

This type of tumor is caused by the overgrowth of squamous skin cells and is rare in dogs. These malignant skin cell tumors often look like ulcers and are more commonly found on non-pigmented areas of the eyelid.

Lymphomas or Mast Cell Tumors

Lymphoid tissue cells in the conjunctiva can multiply excessively and lead to lymphomas or malignant mast cell tumors.

These tumors originate from mast cells, immune system cells that typically play a role in allergic reactions. Mast cell tumors can be challenging to detect and may not have pigment.

They can grow quickly and spread (metastasize), making them more difficult to treat.

Histiocytoma

Another eyelid tumor that tends to impact young dogs is histiocytoma. These tumors of Langerhans cells (immune system cells in the skin) tend to develop quickly. They are benign and often look like red, hairless, round buttons. 

While a histiocytoma may develop anywhere on a dog's body, they are more common on the head, face, and front end. 

While other types of tumors can affect the eyelids, conjunctiva, and periocular tissues, these are the most commonly diagnosed tumors.

Hemangiomas & Hemangiosarcomas

Hemangiomas are benign tumors of blood vessels, whereas hemangiosarcomas are their malignant counterparts. The latter requires prompt and aggressive treatment due to its rapid spread.

What are the symptoms of eyelid tumors in dogs?

The appearance of the tumor is sometimes the first symptom you'll see. However, a dog may also display eye-related symptoms that cause you to look closer at the eyelid and discover the mass. 

Common Symptoms of Eyelid Tumors in Dogs include:

These symptoms may be linked to irritation caused by the mass. It is also possible that the mass or tumor in your dog's eye is incidental, and your pup may have a different underlying eye problem.

What causes eyelid tumors in dogs?

Tumors typically develop due to abnormal growth and unregulated replication of cells that make up the body's tissues. However, it's unclear why dogs develop the tumors listed above. Very few cancerous tumors are triggered by a single cause. 

Various factors can cause dog eyelid tumors, such as environmental, genetic, age, or hereditary risk factors that may contribute to the development of these tumors. 

Understanding these causes can aid in preventing and detecting eyelid tumors in dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for changes in your dog's eyes or eyelids are essential for maintaining their health and well-being.

If you notice any growths or abnormalities, consult a veterinary surgeon promptly to determine the best course of action.

What should I do about my dog's eyelid mass or tumor?

Consult your veterinarian if you've noticed any of the symptoms listed above in your dog.

Even benign masses on the eyelid can distort the eye and be very painful. They can cause obvious discomfort and lead to significant issues, such as scarring or infection, if a dog keeps scratching at them and obstructing the tear ducts that produce tears. This may cause your pet discomfort and eventually lead to vision impairment.

How are eyelid tumors in dogs diagnosed?

Our veterinarian at Charlotte can offer comprehensive and compassionate eye care for your dog, including:

• Conduct a thorough exam of your dog. This exam will include vision testing, slit lamp examination (biomicroscopy), and indirect ophthalmoscopy.
• Ask about your dog's health history, such as when you noticed the symptoms and/or mass, how the symptoms or mast might have changed over time, etc. 
• Carefully examine the eyelid along with the eye itself. They may need to use fluorescein stain to evaluate eye pressures, measure the diameter of the mass, check for corneal ulceration secondary to the mass rubbing the cornea, and measure tear production in the eye.
• Take a tissue biopsy of the tumor 
• Test bacterial or fungal culture from the mass 
• Take a cytology of skin scrapings around the eyelid
• Perform any blood work required to gain insight into your dog's overall health before surgery. 
• Take X-rays of the chest to find out if the tumor has spread. 

What factors will my vet consider when planning treatment for my dog's eyelid tumor?

If your veterinarian has diagnosed your dog with an eyelid tumor, they'll likely consider these factors when planning the type and timing of your pet's treatment:

• The number of growths
• Size of the mass
• Duration of the problem and how fast the tumor is growing 
• Location of the base of the mass (i.e., eyelid margin, middle layer of the skin, or conjunctiva)
• Your dog's ability to blink fully (to determine if lubricant is needed to protect the cornea) 
• Your dog's age
• Evidence of irritation around the eyelid (e.g., bleeding, ulceration of the dermis, conjunctival hyperemia, ocular discharge, corneal ulcers, corneal vascularization) 
• Evidence of the tumor spreading to lymph nodes or elsewhere (pointing to a need to stage the neoplasia before planning surgery)

What are treatment options for eyelid tumors in dogs?

Since there are no at-home or homeopathic remedies for this condition, eyelid tumor removal surgery (or blepharoplasty - the technical term for eyelid surgery) is generally the best treatment option. After your veterinarian has examined your dog's eye and eyelid tumor or mass, they will work with you to create a treatment plan. 

An effective treatment plan will address the mass and any developed secondary issues.  The goal will be to have the eyelids lie flat against the eye and close completely so they'll be able to protect the eyes. 

There are limits on how much of the eyelid can be surgically removed without compromising function, so early diagnosis and treatment while the mass is small are key. 

A vet typically recommends removing any eyelid mass larger than two or three millimeters to improve the chances of completely removing the mass without jeopardizing eyelid function. 

Eyelid Tumor Removal Surgery in Dogs 

Regarding eyelid surgeries for dogs, tumor removal procedures are relatively common. Your veterinary ophthalmologist may recommend one of these eyelid surgeries to remove your dog's tumor:

Laser Ablation Surgery - Safe and effective laser surgery to remove the mass can reduce or eliminate pain, bleeding, and swelling. 

Wedge Resection—This surgery treats a tumor that takes up less than 30% of the length of the eyelid. During the procedure, the vet removes a small wedge of the eyelid and the tumor itself. Again, a special suture pattern lines up the eyelid margin and closes the seam. 

Cryotherapy (Debulking) - Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the tumor to destroy abnormal cells, is often used for small, superficial tumors or when surgery is not feasible.

V-Plasty Surgery -This outpatient surgical option is recommended for larger benign and malignant growths. During a V-plasty surgery, your veterinarian will remove a small wedge of tissue where the growth is located and stitch the incision back together using sutures. 

Enucleation - Very rarely, enucleation may be recommended for cancerous eye tumors. This surgical procedure involves removing one or both eyes in dogs, depending on the eyelid tumor.

How much will my dog's eyelid tumor removal surgery cost?

Various factors contribute to the cost of eyelid tumor removal surgery for a dog. These factors include diagnostic tests, pre-and post-operative evaluations, medications, anesthesia, and more. Your veterinary ophthalmologist at Quail Hollow Veterinary Hospital can provide an accurate cost estimate for your dog's procedure.

What will my dog's prognosis be after surgery to remove the eyelid tumor?

After a dog's eyelid tumor is surgically removed, the prognosis is usually positive, and the risk of recurrence is relatively low. If the tumor returns, it typically happens within six months. It's important to check the area during this period regularly and schedule follow-up visits with your veterinary ophthalmologist and veterinarian.

Your Dog's Recovery From Eyelid Tumor Removal Surgery 

Post-operative care at home will be important to help your dog recover. If your dog rips sutures out or the area becomes irritated, this can delay healing or cause the eyelid to become permanently disfigured. 

Your veterinarian may provide specific post-op instructions, including:

• Cleaning the surgical site with a warm washcloth daily to remove any debris
• Applying lubricating or antibiotic ointment to the affected eye daily
• Administering medications to control pain and inflammation
• Using an Elizabethan collar to protect the area and prevent your dog from rubbing or scratching the surgical site
• Keeping your dog from doing too much physical activity or playfighting with other pets

Your veterinarian will probably recommend an Elizabethan collar to protect the area. They might also suggest using lubricating agents to keep the area moist. Some dogs may require radiation or chemotherapy for malignant tumors.

Note: Quail Hollow Veterinary Hospital specializes in treating eye conditions and illnesses. The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical or behavioral advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.

Do you suspect your dog may have an eyelid tumor? Contact our Charlotte vets right away to book an examination for your dog.