What Is Cherry Eye?
Cherry eye is when the tear gland in the corner of the eye prolapses out of its normal position, appearing as a rounded red swelling. It’s common in certain dog breeds where the supporting tissue holding the gland in place is weaker.
The condition looks alarming but is usually straightforward to address. Left uncorrected, it can cause ongoing irritation and affect tear production over time.
Symptoms To Watch For
Red Swelling in Eye Corner
A rounded, reddish lump visible in the inner corner of the eye — the prolapsed gland itself.
Discharge
Increased mucoid discharge from the affected eye as the exposed gland becomes irritated.
Squinting
Partial or intermittent squinting as the prolapsed tissue causes discomfort or light sensitivity.
How It's Diagnosed
Diagnosis is usually straightforward on visual examination the prolapsed gland is clearly visible. A full eye assessment confirms the extent of the prolapse and rules out any concurrent eye conditions before planning treatment.
See Cherry Eye & Eyelid Surgery Service →Treatment & Management
Surgical correction is the standard treatment. The goal is to reposition the gland not remove it since the gland contributes to tear production. Removing it can increase the risk of dry eye later in life. We’ll explain what to expect before any procedure.
See Cherry Eye & Eyelid Surgery Service →When To Seek Care
If you notice a red swelling in your dog’s eye corner, book an assessment. Cherry eye doesn’t usually resolve on its own and is easier to address earlier rather than after prolonged irritation.
Why Pet Owners Choose ExoCare?
Specialized Expertise
Modern Equipment
Emergency Care
Compassionate Vet
Dr. Asma Fariha
Veterinary Surgeon · MVC Reg. No. 3362
Dr. Asma assesses the gland and discusses the options, including when surgery is appropriate.
What People Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Our main clinic is in Subang Jaya, Selangor. We also operate 7 additional locations across the Klang Valley: USJ, Puchong, Kelana Jaya, Bukit Kiara, Bandar Sunway, Taman Paramount, and Damansara Heights. All locations operate under the same team, standards, and expertise.
Yes, during clinic hours (Mon, Wed-Sun 11 AM-7 PM), we accept emergency cases. Call +60-3-5145 8989 immediately – we’ll triage and fit you in based on urgency.
We’re open Monday, Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. We are closed on Tuesdays for clinic maintenance. For emergency cases during our operating hours, please call +60-3-5145 8989 immediately.
You can book online at our booking page, by phone at +60-3-5145 8989, by email, or by walk-in (subject to availability). We recommend booking in advance.
We accept credit card (Visa, Mastercard), debit card, bank transfer, and cash. Payment plans are available for major procedures – ask our staff.
Yes. All our veterinarians are registered with the Malaysia Veterinary Council (MVC) and trained in avian and exotic animal medicine. Our lead veterinarian, Dr. Asma Fariha, holds MVC Registration #3362.
Not an emergency, but worth addressing prolonged exposure of the gland causes ongoing irritation and can affect its function. Book an assessment when you notice it.
No, the goal is to reposition it, not remove it. The gland contributes to tear production, and removal increases the risk of dry eye later in life.
Recurrence is uncommon but possible. We’ll discuss the likelihood and what to watch for at your consultation.
Rarely, the prolapsed gland doesn’t typically return to position on its own. Surgical correction is usually needed, and earlier is generally easier.
Some breeds particularly those with flatter faces or looser facial tissue are more predisposed. Ask us if your breed carries a higher risk.