Dog can't blink after TECA surgery. Is it permanent? How often eye drops?

Question

My dog had Teca surgery a week ago and lost the ability to blink or shut her eyes. Is this forever? Also, with the wetting eye drops, if I use a night time one, will that last all night? Or is it still every 4 hours? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 1 month old | 6 lbs

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

With TECA (total ear canal ablation) surgeries, there is a good likelihood of developing facial nerve paresis, which is most often a temporary condition. The facial nerve wraps around the base of the ear and can often be "bruised" during the procedure. This nerve controls the muscles of facial expression, including eyelid movement. In most cases (>90%), there is significant improvement in these deficits within 2 months, with most returning to normal function. Some dogs retain permanent facial nerve deficits, but fortunately, that is much less common. Initially, I would recommend following the prescribed dosage of eye lubricant closely. The cornea can dry out pretty easily, opening it to more possible damage from irritation.

Dog can't blink after TECA surgery. Is it permanent? How often eye drops?

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