For the Eyelashes: Depending on the location of the offending eyelashes, electroepilation may be performed to remove the hair follicle.
With this, a special tool is used that emits low levels of DC and high-frequency current to eradicate the lash at the base of the follicle. This method works best if there are only a few lashes that need to be removed from a Maltese.
With this treatment, the hair most likely will not grow back; but may in some rare cases.
Cryosurgy may be done in more severe cases. This is a process similar to electrolysis but has proven to work better with canines in regard to the hair never re-growing.
For Corneal Abrasions and Ulcerations: If corneal abrasion is present on a Maltese's eye(s), it is treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory/pain medication.
A minor abrasion will heal in about 5 days, once the eyelash(es) are removed.
A more severe ulceration will need more time to heal. The eye must be well protected, and therefore in many cases the veterinarian will surgically stitch the lid closed and cover it with a bandage.
If both eyes are affected, the vet may take turns, covering one eye first for a few days and then uncovering it and covering the other one so that the dog may be able to see while the healing takes place.
In rare cases, the ulcers do not heal properly. When this happens, there will be a build up of dead cells that circle around the ulcer’s edge. Because they are there, new cells are not able to grow in to help the eye heal. In this case, the dead cells are removed with very careful, precise surgery.
In many cases, once those dead cells are removed, the dog’s body quickly responds by sending in new cells to repair the damage and it is not necessary to surgically close the lid.