What Are Distichia and Ectopic Cilia?
Distichia and ectopic cilia are extra eyelashes that grow in abnormal locations along the eyelid margin. In some cases, these lashes are soft and cause no issues, while in others, they can be short, thick, and irritating, leading to discomfort or corneal ulcers.
- Distichia – Extra eyelashes emerging from the Meibomian glands along the eyelid margin.
- Ectopic Cilia – Abnormal lashes growing through the inner eyelid, often causing significant irritation.
These conditions are typically present from a young age and can vary in severity, requiring treatment if they cause discomfort.
What Happens if Distichia/Ectopic Cilia Are Left Untreated?
If these abnormal eyelashes are short and sharp, they can cause ongoing irritation, pain, and permanent eye damage. This may lead to:
- Corneal ulcers
- Scarring
- Vision loss
To prevent discomfort and long-term complications, your vet may recommend removing the abnormal lashes.
Why Has My Dog Developed Distichiasis or Ectopic Cilia?
While distichiasis and ectopic cilia are suspected to be inherited, there is currently no definitive proof. Breeding recommendations are left to owner discretion, but if a dog with significant distichiasis is bred, it should be paired with a mate without these issues to reduce the risk in offspring.
Surgical Removal
- Extra lashes are surgically removed under anesthesia using a high-magnification microscope.
- No stitches are required, but the eyelid may be swollen with minor bleeding for up to 24 hours after surgery.
- New ectopic cilia may develop over time, sometimes requiring repeat surgery in the future.
Treatment Options for Distichiae Removal
Several procedures are available to remove abnormal eyelashes, each with its own benefits and considerations:
- Electrolysis – A fine needle is inserted into the lid margin to destroy the hair root with an electrical current. This method causes minimal swelling, and dogs are usually comfortable immediately after waking from anesthesia.
- Cryotherapy – The eyelid margin is frozen and thawed in controlled cycles, effectively eliminating the abnormal lashes. This method is highly effective but may cause temporary loss of eyelid pigmentation and significant swelling, though most dogs remain comfortable post-treatment.
- Surgical Removal – Under an operating microscope, a small wedge of eyelid tissue containing the hair root is precisely excised. This method minimizes swelling but may cause mild post-operative bleeding and has the highest risk of altering the eyelid margin.
- Transconjunctival Thermoelectrocautery (TCEC) – A handheld cautery device is applied to the conjunctiva to destroy the hair root. This method, like others, may result in localized swelling and temporary loss of pigmentation.
Each treatment is chosen based on the severity of the condition, the number of abnormal lashes, and the pet’s overall eye health. Your veterinarian will help determine the best approach for your dog.
What Does Aftercare Involve?
After surgery, your pet will require:
- Topical antibiotic drops to prevent infection.
- Oral pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- An Elizabethan collar for a few days to prevent rubbing or irritation of the surgical site.
A follow-up appointment is recommended 2–4 weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing and monitor for any regrowth of abnormal eyelashes.
Potential Complications of Distichiasis or Ectopic Cilia Treatment
While treatment is generally successful, a few complications may occur:
- Regrowth of Hairs – It’s rare to remove all distichia in one procedure, and new ectopic cilia may form over time, sometimes requiring repeat surgery. However, many dogs remain comfortable, even if a few hairs persist.
- Routine Anesthesia Risks – As with any procedure requiring anesthesia, there is a small risk associated with sedation.
- Eyelid Scarring – Very rare, but in some cases, scarring may require surgical correction if it affects the eyelid’s function.
- Loss of Eyelid Pigment – This is usually temporary, resolving within 2–4 months, though in a small percentage of cases, pigment loss may be permanent.
- Tear Film Changes – Surgery may affect the fat component of the tear film, as the meibomian glands in the eyelid margin can be damaged. This is common but rarely problematic for the patient. If needed, we may recommend an Ocular Surface Analysis (OSA) to monitor tear film quality.
Most dogs recover very well and experience significant relief from discomfort after treatment.