Yes I was battling mites as well and luckily with perseverance and a lot of care I was able to get rid of them. I can see his actual eye under there and like you said I didn’t want to hurt him. The other 2 came off with ease after the soaking. He moves around fine and is active. And he did eat for me the first 2 weeks even with the issues. I think the mites just really got to him. It has only been about 2 weeks since he has eaten.
i am also having a hard time finding a vet anywhere near me that does any form
of reptile.