Specialized Surgery

Airway & Respiratory Surgery

Specialized airway surgeries for brachycephalic breeds and respiratory conditions. Dr. Dan Meakin's extensive experience with Bulldog rescues, Great Dane rescues, and brachycephalic breeds has made him an expert in airway correction procedures.

Schedule Consultation (937) 779-3032

Veterinarian examining a brachycephalic dog

Breathing Relief

Expert airway surgery

Understanding the Problem

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short, flat faces) often suffer from breathing difficulties due to their unique anatomy. This condition, known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), can significantly impact quality of life and even be life-threatening.

Dr. Dan's years of work with Bulldog rescues, Great Dane rescues, and other brachycephalic breeds have given him extensive experience in correcting these airway abnormalities. He understands the unique challenges these breeds face and has refined his surgical techniques to provide optimal outcomes.

Improved breathing

Better exercise tolerance

Reduced snoring

Enhanced quality of life

Brachycephalic dog receiving veterinary care

Our Services

Airway Correction Procedures

Surgical interventions to improve breathing and quality of life for brachycephalic breeds.

Soft Palate Resection

Surgical shortening of an elongated soft palate that obstructs the airway, causing breathing difficulties and snoring.

Reduces airway obstruction
Improves breathing
Decreases snoring
Prevents aspiration

Stenotic Nares Correction

Surgical widening of narrow nostrils to improve airflow and reduce breathing effort.

Opens nasal passages
Easier breathing
Better oxygen intake
Reduced respiratory distress

Laryngeal Sacculectomy

Removal of everted laryngeal saccules that can obstruct the airway in brachycephalic breeds.

Clears airway obstruction
Reduces respiratory noise
Improves airflow
Prevents progression

At-Risk Breeds

Breeds Commonly Affected

Brachycephalic airway syndrome primarily affects short-nosed breeds.

English Bulldogs

French Bulldogs

Pugs

Boston Terriers

Boxers

Shih Tzus

Persian Cats

And More

Brachycephalic dog showing breathing difficulty

Early Detection

Prevents serious issues

Warning Signs

Signs Your Pet May Need Airway Surgery

Watch for these symptoms that may indicate brachycephalic airway syndrome:

Noisy breathing or snoring

Exercise intolerance

Gagging or retching

Blue or purple gums

Collapsing or fainting

Overheating easily

Open-mouth breathing

Difficulty sleeping

If your pet shows signs of severe respiratory distress (blue gums, collapse), seek emergency care immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about airway surgery.

At what age should airway surgery be performed?

Airway surgery is often most effective when performed at a younger age, typically between 6 months to 2 years old, before secondary changes occur. However, older dogs can still benefit from surgery if they're experiencing breathing difficulties.

How long is recovery after airway surgery?

Most pets recover within 2-3 weeks. The first few days require close monitoring, and we'll provide detailed post-operative care instructions. Many pets show immediate improvement in breathing once the swelling subsides.

Can multiple procedures be done at once?

Yes, it's common to perform multiple airway procedures during one surgery (such as soft palate resection and stenotic nares correction together). This approach minimizes anesthesia events and provides comprehensive correction.

What is the success rate of airway surgery?

When performed early, airway surgery has excellent success rates, with most pets experiencing significant improvement in breathing and quality of life. Dr. Dan's extensive experience with brachycephalic breeds contributes to consistently positive outcomes.

Is airway surgery covered by pet insurance?

Many pet insurance policies cover airway surgery, especially if symptoms are documented. We recommend checking with your insurance provider. We'll provide all necessary documentation for your claim.

Help Your Pet Breathe Easier

If your brachycephalic pet is struggling with breathing difficulties, airway surgery can dramatically improve their quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Dan today.

Schedule Consultation (937) 779-3032

Surgeries are performed on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays