Brachycephalic Airway Surgery for Dogs in Winter Haven, FL
Snorting, snoring, and noisy breathing may seem normal for a flat-faced dog, but these sounds can sometimes signal that your dog is struggling to move enough air through their upper airway.
Veterinary Healthcare Associates in Winter Haven, FL provides brachycephalic airway surgery for dogs with Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Dr. Katie Barry, our board-certified surgeon, specializes in performing these surgeries for brachycephalic breeds in Winter Haven, Orlando, Tampa, and beyond, helping affected dogs breathe more comfortably.
If your dog struggles to breathe, exercise, sleep, or tolerate warm weather, call Veterinary Healthcare Associates at (863) 324-3340 to schedule a surgical consultation.
What Is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS)?
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS, describes breathing problems caused by anatomical differences in dogs with shortened skulls and muzzles.
Common brachycephalic breeds include:
- French Bulldogs
- English Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Boston Terriers
- Pekingese
- Shih Tzus
- Boxers
Some of these dogs are born with narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, or other upper-airway abnormalities that make it harder for air to move freely. Over time, the extra effort required to breathe may contribute to additional changes within the airway.
What Are the Signs of Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome in Dogs?
BOAS can range from mild noisy breathing to severe respiratory distress. Symptoms often become more noticeable during exercise, excitement, heat, or humid weather.
Signs may include:
- Loud or persistent snoring
- Snorting or noisy breathing while awake
- Labored breathing
- Excessive panting
- Difficulty exercising or tiring quickly
- Gagging or retching
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Restlessness or disrupted sleep
- Blue or purple gums or tongue
- Fainting or collapse
How Does Brachycephalic Airway Surgery Help Dogs with BOAS?
Brachycephalic airway surgery for dogs addresses physical obstructions that make breathing harder. By creating a more open pathway for air to travel through the nose and throat, surgery can reduce airway resistance and decrease the amount of effort a dog needs to breathe.
The procedures your dog needs depend on their individual anatomy.
What Is Recovery Like After Brachycephalic Airway Surgery?
The period immediately after BOAS surgery requires careful observation because swelling or bleeding around the throat can temporarily make breathing more difficult.
VHA’s specialty surgery team provides close postoperative monitoring, with access to a 24/7 staffed ICU for patients who need continued observation and support following surgery.
Your dog may experience some coughing, gagging, or throat irritation during early recovery. Once your dog goes home, instructions may include:
- Restricting strenuous activity while tissues heal
- Using a harness instead of a neck collar
- Keeping your dog cool and avoiding excessive heat
- Offering food and water according to discharge instructions
- Giving prescribed medications exactly as directed
- Monitoring breathing and the surgical sites closely
- Returning for recommended postoperative appointments
Recovery varies depending on the procedures performed and the severity of your dog’s airway disease. Our surgical team will provide instructions specific to your dog before they leave the hospital.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of BOAS Surgery?
For an appropriately selected patient, BOAS surgery can reduce airway obstruction and make everyday breathing easier. Dogs treated earlier in the progression of the condition generally have a better outlook than dogs that have already developed advanced changes within the larynx.
Potential benefits may include:
- Easier, quieter breathing
- Improved airflow
- Better exercise tolerance
- Less respiratory distress
- Improved tolerance of normal activity
- Reduced strain on the upper airway
Like any procedure requiring anesthesia, BOAS surgery also carries risks. Brachycephalic dogs require especially attentive airway management before, during, and after anesthesia.
Potential complications can include swelling, bleeding, aspiration, respiratory difficulty, or the need for additional airway support during recovery. Your veterinary surgeon will discuss your dog’s individual risks, the procedures being recommended, and the expected outcome before surgery.
What Other Health Problems Can Affect Brachycephalic Dogs?
The shortened skull shape of brachycephalic breeds can affect more than breathing. Some dogs develop additional conditions that warrant ongoing veterinary attention.
Respiratory Issues
Along with stenotic nares, elongated soft palates, and everted laryngeal saccules, some brachycephalic dogs can have a narrowed trachea or develop progressive changes to the larynx. Treating significant airway obstruction earlier may help reduce ongoing stress on the upper airway.
Gastrointestinal Issues
BOAS and gastrointestinal problems can occur together. Some affected dogs experience regurgitation, reflux, difficulty swallowing, or conditions such as hiatal hernia. Because breathing and gastrointestinal symptoms can influence one another, our team considers both when evaluating a brachycephalic patient.
Urogenital Issues
Brachycephalic males are prone to a condition known as prolapsed urethra, which can arise due to changes in respiratory and abdominal pressures. Surgical correction is typically necessary, and we strongly recommend addressing any airway issues simultaneously to ensure the best outcome for your pet's overall well-being.
Dental Disease
Brachycephalic breeds frequently have overcrowded teeth, leading to dental disease. Tartar buildup under the gum line releases bacteria into the bloodstream, affecting your dog’s heart, liver and kidneys. Our team at VHA reduces dental disease risk through comprehensive teeth cleaning services, including full mouth examinations, digital X-rays, and thorough cleanings to maintain your pet’s dental health.
If you are concerned about your dog’s breathing, call (863) 324-3340 to schedule a consultation to learn whether BOAS surgery may help them breathe more comfortably.
