When is excision of the third eyelid gland considered appropriate?

The excision of the third eyelid gland is typically indicated in cases of neoplasia, making this choice appropriate. When neoplasia affects the third eyelid gland, removal is necessary to prevent potential complications, such as the spread of malignancy or further degradation of the ocular surface. In cases where the gland is hyperplastic or when there is cherry eye (a condition where the gland prolapses), other management strategies often take precedence, such as gland repositioning or other conservative treatments. Thus, while hyperplasia or the presence of cherry eye are legitimate concerns, they do not automatically necessitate surgical removal of the gland. Furthermore, the age of the animal (e.g., being older than five years) is not a definitive factor determining the need for excision; surgical judgment should be based on the underlying condition affecting the gland rather than solely the age of the pet.