Swollen Third Eyelid That Folds Out After Surgery

A third eyelid that stays folded out under the lower lid is often due to a bent (everted) cartilage inside the third eyelid, sometimes combined with a prolapsed gland. When it keeps folding back after a repair, surgeons typically remove the bent piece of cartilage and, if the gland is involved, reposition it with a pocket technique, while keeping the gland.

Since your dog has already had one procedure, a second opinion from a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist is reasonable. Ask what tissue is involved and about the options that preserve the tear gland.

See cherry eye in dogs for more on third-eyelid gland surgery.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.