BOAS Surgery

Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and British Bulldogs are adorable — but their cute, squished faces can come at a cost. Many suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition that makes breathing difficult and limits their ability to exercise, sleep, and stay cool. 

At Belconnen Veterinary Centre, we offer specialised BOAS corrective surgery to help your pet breathe more freely, reduce snoring and overheating, and enjoy a better quality of life. 

What is BOAS and signs your pet might have it? 

BOAS is caused by anatomical abnormalities common in flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, including: 

  • Noisy or laboured breathing, snoring or snorting 

  • Tissue blocking the airway, causing vomiting or regurgitation 

  • Exercise intolerance or collapse after activity 

  • Gasping or open-mouth breathing 

What’s Involved in the BOAS Surgery?

Our vets tailor the surgery based on your pet’s anatomy and symptoms. Common procedures include: 

  • Nostril Widening: Surgically enlarging the nostril openings to allow easier airflow through the nose. 

  • Soft Palate Resection: Trimming the elongated soft palate to prevent airway blockage at the back of the throat. 

  • Laryngeal Saccule Removal: Removing everted saccules that obstruct breathing and cause turbulence in the airway.  

 Benefits of the BOAS Surgery

  • Improved airflow and quieter, easier breathing 

  • Better exercise tolerance and reduced risk of overheating 

  • Fewer episodes of regurgitation or vomiting 

  • Happier, more active lifestyle 

  • Increased life expectancy in severely affected dogs 

What to Expect 

Under a full general anaesthetic, we perform BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) surgery to widen the nostrils and shorten the soft palate, helping your dog breathe more easily. Patients receive oxygen therapy before and after surgery, along with pain relief medications and a detailed at-home recovery guide to ensure a safe, comfortable recovery.