Cherry eye surgery costs $500-$1,500 per eye - and often affects both eyes. The third eyelid gland prolapses outward, creating a red swollen bulge. Surgery to tuck the gland back is the standard fix. The sooner it's done, the better the outcome.
Dogs have a third eyelid with a tear-producing gland. When connective tissue fails, the gland prolapses outward, creating a red fleshy bulge. This weakness is typically genetic. Most common in dogs under 2 years old
A pink or red, smooth, oval mass protrudes from the inner corner. Excessive eye watering or mucus discharge may occur. Dogs often paw at the affected eye. Redness and swelling around the eye develops. The mass may initially come and go before becoming permanent. Usually appears suddenly
Cherry eye is diagnosed by visual examination - the prolapsed gland is obvious. Vets check for secondary issues like corneal ulcers or dry eye. A Schirmer tear test ($20-$40) may measure tear production. No advanced imaging needed. Average $50-$100
The preferred surgery is pocket technique (Morgan pocket) - the gland tucks back into a pocket, preserving tear production. Gland removal risks chronic dry eye. Post-surgery anti-inflammatory drops prescribed. Some cases need a second surgery if re-prolapse occurs. Average $500-$1,500
Exam plus surgery. If both eyes are affected (common), expect $1,200-$3,200 total.
E-collar required to prevent rubbing. Eye drops for 2-4 weeks. Most dogs heal fully with no complications.
No known prevention - it's genetic. Buy from breeders who screen for eye problems in their lines.
02/04
Exam plus surgery.
Most policies cover cherry eye surgery as a standard illness after enrollment. The 14-day illness waiting period applies. First occurrence in one eye is typically covered - surgery, anesthesia, medication, and follow-ups included.
If one eye develops cherry eye, the second often follows. Some insurers classify the second eye as related to the first - potentially pre-existing or one deductible total. Others treat each eye independently. Clarify before the second eye prolapses.
Surgery at $500-$1,500 per eye typically exceeds your deductible. Bilateral surgery can reach $3,200. With 80% reimbursement and $500 deductible, you save $400-$2,100 depending on coverage.
Some insurers add breed-specific exclusions for conditions common in certain breeds. While most cover cherry eye, some exclude it for Bulldogs and high-risk breeds. Read fine print on breed-related exclusions before enrolling.
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