Ask The Doc: Eyelids

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Hi, Dr. DeMichael! I spoke with you a few months back about a lab puppy. My husband and I have since purchased a Chocolate(my husband's favorite) lab. I am concerned about the skin on her head. When she puts her head down, at times, all the skin comes forward which seems to loosen the skin on the under part of her eye lids. I have been reading about ectropion, but no books go into depth. We go to the vet, Dr. George Gilpin, next Friday. He has already checked her out, but we have just noticed the skin problem the past few days. I was just a little concerned about the surgery, if she needs it. When and how is it done? Have you had any expereinces with this problem? When her head it up she looks totally normal. Would she have the droopy lids all the time if she had ectropion? Thanks!! Carrie Leon p.s. I spoke to Tony at Sheabel Kennel about training. He spoke very highly of you and his dog which he purchased from you a few years back.

Dr DeMichael: The situation you are describing would most likely not, in my opinion, require surgery. However, please understand that I have not seen your dog for a personal evaluation. Many Labradors, when very relaxed, as in about to fall asleep etc., will show a laxity of the facial and associated ocular muscles which will give the appearance of "loose eyelids". The determining factor in my opinion is the condition of the lids when the dog is alert and attentive under normal situations. As you have described, your pup appears to be normal during this time, thus my answer is based on that aspect of your description.