BOAS - Brachycephalic Surgery
Aproximate Cost:
$1,500 - $2,500
What It Is
BOAS surgery is a set of corrective procedures that improve airflow in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs. It commonly includes widening the nostrils (stenotic nares resection), shortening an elongated soft palate, and removing everted laryngeal saccules. These procedures relieve upper airway obstruction caused by the breed’s compressed facial structure.
Why It’s Performed
This surgery is performed to treat breathing difficulties, snoring, exercise intolerance, gagging, and heat sensitivity caused by narrowed airways. Early intervention can prevent progression of airway collapse, reduce risk of heatstroke, and improve long-term quality of life. In severe cases, BOAS can be life-threatening without surgical correction.
Risks Involved
Potential complications include bleeding, swelling of the airway, infection, temporary difficulty swallowing, aspiration pneumonia, and—in rare cases—respiratory distress after surgery. Careful monitoring during recovery helps minimize these risks.
Typical Recovery Time
We recommend pets go to an overnight facility for 12 hours for airway monitoring and pain control. Swelling usually resolves within several days, and pets typically return to normal activity within 2–3 weeks. Breathing improvements are often noticeable within days after surgery, though full healing can take about a month.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform BOAS corrective surgery with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, with clear upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.
*Consultation Required
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.