Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Surgery

BOAS Surgery for Brachycephalic Breeds in Birmingham, MI

Helping Short-Nosed Dogs Breathe Easier and Live More Comfortably

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds are adored for their affectionate personalities and signature features, but their compact facial structure can come with hidden health risks. These breeds—including Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, Boxers, and others—are prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition that can make breathing difficult and even life-threatening in certain situations.

At Gasow Veterinary Hospital in Birmingham, MI, Dr. Kira Walsh and Dr. Katie Raper offers advanced BOAS surgical procedures to help your pet breathe more comfortably and improve their overall quality of life.

What Is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)?

BOAS is a group of anatomical abnormalities commonly found in flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs. These features, while distinctive and endearing, can interfere with normal breathing.

Common components of BOAS include:

• Stenotic Nares – Narrowed nostrils that restrict airflow
• Elongated Soft Palate – Excess tissue in the throat that partially blocks the airway
• Everted Laryngeal Saccules – Tissue that becomes displaced from increased breathing effort
• Hypoplastic Trachea – A narrowed windpipe that makes breathing more difficult (think of breathing through a straw)

Signs Your Dog May Have BOAS

Brachycephalic dogs may show signs of BOAS at any age. Watch for symptoms such as:

• Noisy or labored breathing
• Snoring, snorting, or wheezing
• Heat intolerance
• Gagging, choking, or vomiting
• Exercise intolerance or frequent tiredness
• Bluish gums or tongue (cyanosis)
• Fainting or collapsing spells

How BOAS Surgery Can Help

BOAS surgery can significantly improve your dog’s comfort, safety, and energy level by:

• Increasing airflow and oxygen intake
• Reducing snoring and noisy breathing
• Enhancing tolerance to heat and exercise
• Decreasing the risk of respiratory distress
• Improving quality of life and daily function

While some conditions like a hypoplastic trachea are not surgically correctable, other components of BOAS—including stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, and everted laryngeal saccules—can be effectively treated with surgery.

What’s Involved in BOAS Surgery?

Dr. Walsh performs BOAS surgery using a CO₂ surgical laser, which helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and discomfort during recovery.

• Stenotic Nares: A small wedge of tissue is removed to widen the nostrils.
• Elongated Soft Palate: Excess soft tissue is carefully trimmed to clear the airway.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If your dog struggles to breathe, snores loudly, or shows signs of heat or exercise intolerance, they may benefit from BOAS surgery.

Gasow Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve Birmingham, as well as Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Berkley, Ferndale, Beverly Hills, Detroit, Southfield, Madison Heights, and surrounding communities.

Call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kira Walsh and Dr. Katie Raper and take the next step toward helping your pet breathe easier.