According to research, approximately 4% of the pet population suffers from eye disease. Your pet has a greater chance of developing an eye condition than you. And just like in humans, the earlier these conditions are detected, the better the opportunities for a successful treatment. So, if you’re worried about your pet’s vision, it’s time to make an appointment with the pet eye doctor. We are dedicated to providing your pet with the best possible eye care at Animal Eye Clinic of Pensacola.

What Exactly Is an Orbital Implant?

An orbital implant is a medical device used to replace the eyeball in cases where the eye has been removed due to injury or disease. The implant is silicone and inserted into the empty socket where the eye was previously located. Sometimes, the implant is covered with a thin layer of tissue taken from another part of the body, such as the lower eyelid.

This procedure gives the appearance of a more natural-looking eye. Several orbital implants are available, and your veterinarian will select the best one for your pet based on their individual needs.

Types of Orbital Implants

There are two main types of orbital implants, solid and porous. The former is entirely made of silicone or another biocompatible material. This implant is less expensive and more accessible for the veterinarian to insert but does not allow tissue growth. On the other hand, the latter is made with a honeycomb-like structure that allows tissue growth. These implants are more expensive and require a more complex surgery by a professional vet, but they provide a more natural-looking result.

What Does Surgery Pertain?

The surgery to insert an orbital implant is typically very straightforward. First, the vet will place your pet under general anesthesia and shave the area around the eye. Next, a small incision will be made in the lower eyelid, and the implant will be inserted into the socket.

Sometimes, our eye surgeon takes a piece of tissue from the upper eyelid to help cover the implant. The incision will then be closed with sutures, and your pet will slowly recover from the anesthesia. You need our professional veterinary ophthalmology specialist for such a surgery.

Recovery After Surgery

Your pet will likely experience swelling and bruising around the eye. This side effect should resolve within a few weeks. They may also need to wear a cone to prevent rubbing or scratching at the eye during recovery. Keep your pet calm and quiet during this time to avoid complications.

Make an Appointment with Us Today

If you have any concerns about your pet’s eye health or if they have been showing signs of vision problems, make an appointment with the pet eye doctor. At Animal Eye Clinic of Pensacola, we have a veterinary ophthalmology specialist dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pet. So, give us a call today at (850) 860-4160.