🐾 BOAS Surgery (Brachychephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) – Client FAQS

 

What is BOAS?

BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) is a condition affecting short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, King Charles Cavalier Spaniels and French Bulldogs.  Their airway anatomy makes it harder for them to breathe normally.

 

What signs indicate my dog may need BOAS surgery?

Common signs include:

  • Noisy breathing (snorting, snoring)
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Overheating easily
  • Gagging or vomiting
  • Blue-tinged gums (in severe cases)
  • Collapse or distress after activity

 

What does BOAS surgery involve?

Surgery aims to improve airflow and may include:

  • Widening the nostrils (stenotic nares resection)
  • Shortening the elongated soft palate
  • Removing everted laryngeal saccules (if present)

Not all dogs need every procedure - treatment is tailored individually.

 

Is BOAS surgery necessary for my dog?

If your dog is showing even minor symptoms, surgery can significantly improve breathing, quality of life, and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.

 

What are the risks of BOAS surgery for my dog?

As with any surgery, risks include:

  • Anaesthetic complications (higher in brachycephalic breeds)
  • Swelling of the airway post-op

These risks are carefully managed with monitoring and experienced surgical care.

 

How successful is BOAS surgery?

Most pets show significant improvement in breathing and activity levels.  While it may not create a ‘perfect’ airway, it greatly enhances comfort and quality of life.

 

How long will it take my dog to recovery?

  • Initial recovery: 1 week
  • Your dog will needs restricted exercise and soft food initially.

 

Will my dog need to stay overnight?

No, we operate early in the morning and monitor them.  As long as they do well during the day, they go home that evening.

 

Will my dog still snore after surgery?

Snoring should reduce but doesn’t always disappear completely.  The goal is improved breathing, not necessarily total silence.

 

At what age should BOAS surgery be done?

Early intervention (often between 6 - 9 months) is strongly advised as this can prevent progression to irreversible changes, but surgery can still benefit older dogs.

 

How can I help my dog before or after surgery?

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Avoid heat and stress
  • Use a harness instead of a collar

 

Is BOAS surgery covered by pet insurance?

Some policies cover it, especially if not considered a pre-existing condition.  It’s best to check with your insurer directly.

 

What happens if BOAS is left untreated?

The condition often worsens over time and can lead to:

  • Severe breathing distress
  • Collapse
  • Secondary airway damage
  • Death