BOAS Surgery for Dogs in Essex
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a common condition affecting flat-faced dog breeds such as French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers. At Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Brentwood, Essex, we offer BOAS surgery to help improve breathing, comfort and quality of life for affected dogs.
If your dog struggles to breathe, snores loudly, pants excessively, or tires easily during exercise, BOAS surgery may be recommended following a full clinical assessment. Our aim is to help your dog breathe more comfortably and enjoy everyday activities with less effort.
What Is BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome)?
BOAS is caused by the shortened skull shape seen in brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds. While the face is shorter, the soft tissues inside the airway are often the same size, leading to narrowing and obstruction of airflow.
Common BOAS-related airway problems include:
- Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares)
- An elongated soft palate
- Narrowed windpipe (trachea)
- Excess tissue in the throat area
These changes make breathing harder, especially during exercise, hot weather or excitement.
Signs Your Dog May Need BOAS Surgery
Many owners assume noisy breathing is “normal” for flat-faced breeds, but this is often a sign of airway obstruction. BOAS surgery may be recommended if your dog shows one or more of the following signs.
Common symptoms of BOAS include:
- Loud snoring or noisy breathing when awake or asleep
- Heavy panting or difficulty cooling down
- Exercise intolerance or tiring quickly on walks
- Gagging, retching or vomiting foam
- Blue or pale gums during exertion
- Collapse in severe cases
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, a BOAS assessment is strongly advised.
What Does BOAS Surgery Involve?
BOAS surgery is tailored to each individual dog, depending on which parts of the airway are affected. The most common procedures aim to reduce airway obstruction and improve airflow.
BOAS surgery may include:
- Widening narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares correction)
- Shortening the elongated soft palate
- Removing excess tissue obstructing the airway
Your vet will explain exactly which procedures are recommended for your dog following a thorough examination and assessment.
BOAS Assessment Before Surgery
Before recommending BOAS surgery, your dog will undergo a full clinical assessment at Ivy Lodge Vets. This helps us decide whether surgery is appropriate and which procedures will be most beneficial.
A BOAS assessment may include:
- A detailed discussion of your dog’s symptoms and lifestyle
- Physical examination, including airway assessment
- Body condition and weight evaluation
- Pre-anaesthetic blood tests where appropriate
We will always discuss risks, benefits and expected outcomes with you before proceeding.
Anaesthesia, Safety and Recovery
We understand that anaesthesia can be a concern for owners of brachycephalic dogs. At Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic, BOAS surgery is performed with careful planning, modern monitoring equipment and dedicated nursing care.
After BOAS surgery, your dog will:
- Be closely monitored during recovery from anaesthetic
- Receive appropriate pain relief and supportive care
- Usually stay with us for observation if required
- Go home with clear aftercare instructions
Most dogs show noticeable improvements in breathing once swelling settles, with gradual benefits over the following weeks.
Benefits of BOAS Surgery
While BOAS surgery does not change your dog’s breed characteristics, it can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.
Potential benefits include:
- Easier, quieter breathing
- Improved tolerance to exercise
- Better ability to cope with warm weather
- Reduced risk of breathing-related emergencies
- Improved overall wellbeing
BOAS Surgery Prices
The cost of BOAS surgery is £2,500.00 total.
The procedure includes
- General Anaesthetics
- Post Op Pain Relief
- Post Op Checks
Please contact Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic to book an initial assessment.
Book a BOAS Assessment at Ivy Lodge Vets
If you are concerned about your dog’s breathing or think they may benefit from BOAS surgery, our team is here to help. Early assessment can make a significant difference to your dog’s comfort and long-term health.
Contact Us Today
We welcome dogs from Brentwood, Shenfield, Billericay, Romford and surrounding areas of Essex.