How Much Does Stenotic Nares Surgery Cost?

Stenotic Nares surgery, sometimes called French Bulldog breathing surgery, is a surgical procedure that is done on dogs and cats to correct a condition in which the animal’s nostrils are pinched or narrowed, which makes breathing through  the nose difficult. If you’re looking for information about stenotic nares surgery costs, you’ve landed in the right place.

With more than fifteen years of experience in the insurance industry and also as a dog owner myself, I’ve seen firsthand how critical timely intervention can be to ensure the well being of your pet.

Symptoms And Diagnosis

Symptoms of stenotic nares include:

• Noisy breathing while inhaling
• Blue gums due to lack of oxygen
• Reluctance to exercise and losing consciousness may occur
• Labored breathing puts a strain on the larynx, which in severe cases may collapse

Stenotic nares in dogs is usually diagnosed through a physical examination by a veterinarian. The vet will check for signs and symptoms of stenotic nares, like narrowed external nostrils. Depending on the severity of the stenosis, the vet will assign a grade of the condition’s severity. If necessary, additional diagnostic tests such as endoscopy might be done to assess the extent of the stenotic nares.

Causes

Stenotic nares in dogs are due to a congenital malformation of the cartilage inside the nose. It’s often seen in brachycephalic breeds, those with “squished” faces such as French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs and others.

Treatment

Treatment options for stenotic nares may include both non-surgical and surgical methods, based on the severity of the condition. In milder cases of stenotic nares in dogs, a veterinarian may recommend non-surgical management. Here are some non-surgical treatment options:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight: Keeping your dog from becoming overweight can help to reduce strain on its breathing.
2. Limit stress: Stress may make breathing difficulties worse, so minimizing stress is beneficial for dogs with stenotic nares.
3. Limit exercise in hot or humid weather: Just as with humans, extreme temperatures can worsen respiratory symptoms, so be cautious with outdoor activity during high heat and humidity.
4. Use a harness instead of a neck collar: A harness will put less pressure on the dog’s neck and throat, which is helpful for dogs suffering from stenotic nares.

Typically, surgery is the preferred method to correct stenotic nares, except in mild cases. Stenotic nares in dogs can usually be corrected through surgical procedures. The choice of technique will be based upon the individual dog as well as the severity of the condition.

Here are some common surgical techniques used to correct stenotic nares in dogs:

1. Alapexy: A technique that is used to correct the position of the nasal alar wing.
2. Vertical and Horizontal Wedge Resection: Removing tissue to widen the nasal opening.
3. Wedge Resection: Removing a wedge of tissue from the obstructed nostril, allowing better airflow.
4. Alar Wing Amputation: Surgical removal of a part of the alar wing, creating an unobstructed pathway for air to pass through.
5. Punch Resection: This is a punch biopsy technique addressing narrowed nostrils.
6. Laser Ablation: Removing excess tissue with a precise CO₂ laser, which improves nasal passages.

How Much Does Stenotic Nares Surgery Cost?

Stenotic nares surgery costs may vary depending on several factors, such as the veterinarian’s experience, geographical location, as well as the surgical technique the vet uses. Generally speaking, the cost will be between $500 to $2,000.

What Is Included In The Surgery Cost?

The cost of stenotic nares surgery usually encompasses several different components:

• Preoperative Assessment: The pre-op assessment includes an exam by the veterinarian to assess the severity of the dog’s stenotic nares and decide if surgery will be necessary.
• Anesthesia: The cost of anesthesia will cover its administration during the surgery. Anesthesia will ensure that the dog remains free of pain and comfortable during the procedure.
• Surgical Procedure: The surgery itself widens the constricted nostrils, thus improving air flow. The vet  might use various techniques, like the removal of excess tissue or reshaping the dog’s nostrils.
• Postoperative Care: After the procedure, the dog will need care and monitoring, including wound care and pain management to ensure a good recovery.
• Medications: This might include pain relief medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics.
• Follow-Up Visits: Post-op visits to follow up on the dog’s healing are critical in assessing progress along with addressing any concerns.

Real-World Examples Of Stenotic Nares Surgery Costs

MetLife Pet Insurance: This pet insurance company will typically pay up to $2,500 for stenotic nares surgery in dogs, depending on the severity and surgical technique used.

Lemonade Pet Insurance: Lemonade has varying co-insurance options available. The percentage of an eligible claim Lemonade will reimburse you for may be 70%, 80%, or 90%. So, if the cost of your dog’s stenotic nares surgery is a total of $2,000 and you have the 90% co-insurance, Lemonade will pay $1,800.

A-Z Animals: The majority of pet insurance companies will compensate you for a portion of the veterinarian expense. Some will repay you based upon their benefit plan for each incident. You’re responsible for the balance if the veterinarian costs more than allowed by the benefit schedule.

What Factors Affect The Cost Of Stenotic Nares Surgery?

The total cost of stenotic nares surgery in dogs may depend on a variety of factors. Having a working knowledge of these factors will help you anticipate and prepare for the expenses, as well as being able to make well informed decisions about the best treatment for your dog.

Here are some factors that might influence stenotic nares surgery cost for dogs:

1. Veterinary Clinic: Different clinics may charge different fees. Specialized clinics or clinics with more experienced surgeons might cost more.
2. Severity of Condition: The extent of stenosis, or narrowing, of the nostrils affects the difficulty of the surgery. More severe cases can mean more extensive procedures along with post-op monitoring and follow-up.
3. Insurance Coverage: If you have a pet insurance policy, it might cover part or even all of the surgery cost, dependent on the plan itself along with pre-existing condition coverage.
4. Location: The cost of stenotic nares surgery can vary depending on where you live. Large cities or regions with higher costs of living have a tendency toward more expensive veterinary costs.
5. Pre-Op Evaluation: Many veterinarians will recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays and assessments of the dog’s airway before surgery. These tests will add to the cost.
6. Additional Procedures: If your dog needs other surgeries such as spaying or neutering, combining them with the stenotic nares surgery is usually cost-effective.
7. Anesthesia and Post-Op Monitoring: The administration of anesthesia during surgery, along with monitoring equipment and post-op care will contribute to the total cost.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Stenotic Nares Surgery?

Pet insurance coverage for stenotic nares surgery depends on the policy and the company. Typically, the majority of pet insurance plans will cover surgeries for conditions such as stenotic nares, but there are key factors that must be taken into consideration.

Some plans may reimburse part or all of the cost, while others may exclude pre-existing conditions.

Hereditary And Congenital Conditions

Pet insurance generally will cover both congenital and hereditary conditions, unless pre-existing. Hereditary conditions are linked to the genetics of the dog and passed down from its parents. Congenital conditions, however, are not always linked to genetics. Heart disease, eye disorders, arthritis, luxating patella, hip and elbow dysplasia, and diabetes are a few hereditary and congenital issues normally covered by pet insurance.

For instance, Lemonade Pet Insurance will ordinarily cover the cost of stenotic nares surgery, excluding co-insurance and deductibles, as long as the policy was in place prior to the appearance of symptoms​.

MetLife Pet Insurance also provides coverage for stenotic nares surgery under its policies that cover hereditary conditions, and advises pet owners to check for exclusions that are related to pre-existing conditions​​.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Pet insurance providers consider a pre-existing condition as an injury or illness your pet had prior to coverage being started. Unfortunately, pet insurance companies usually don’t cover pre-existing conditions. For instance, if your dog was diabetic before your pet insurance coverage started, the policy won’t pay for vet expenses related to diabetes.

Some pet insurers will cover pre-existing conditions deemed curable, like an ear infection, if your pet has received no treatment and is free of symptoms for a  period of time.

How Can I Save Money On Stenotic Nares Surgery?

You may be able to save money on stenotic nares surgery for your dog through several cost-efficient strategies.

First of all, look into purchasing pet insurance that will provide coverage for hereditary along with congenital conditions, since it can greatly offset the total cost. A lot of comprehensive pet insurance policies cover the surgery after coinsurance and deductibles, possibly saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Enroll your pet in an insurance plan early on to avoid having problems with pre-existing condition exclusions farther down the road.

Another saving opportunity is to explore payment plans and/or financing options sometimes on offer by veterinary clinics. Some clinics will offer interest free payment plans or options for financing that will help make the cost over time more manageable. In addition, check to see if there are veterinary schools in your area that offer discounted rates for procedures done by supervised students.

What Breeds Are Typically Affected By Stenotic Nares?

Stenotic nares, which are abnormally narrowed or small nostrils, commonly affect brachycephalic dog breeds.

These are brachycephalic dog breeds prone to stenotic nares:

• Boxers
• English Bulldogs
• French Bulldogs
• American Bulldogs
• Chinese Sharpeis
• Boston Terriers
• Bull Mastiffs
• Pugs
• Shih Tzus
• Pekingese
• Lhasa Apsos
• Pomeranians

Sporting Breeds

These breeds are considered sporting breeds that are more likely to have stenotic nares:

• Bulldogs
• Lhasa Apsos
• Pugs
• Boxers
• Shih Tzus
• Boston Terriers

Other Affected Breeds

Although the categories above cover the dog breeds most commonly affected by stenotic nares, basically any dog with a pushed in, flattish face can develop the condition.

King Charles Spaniels, for example, can develop stenotic nares.

Is Surgery Required For Stenotic Nares?

Surgery is very often recommended by veterinarians for dogs that have stenotic nares. This is especially true if the condition is having a significant impact on their breathing.

The surgical procedure widens the nostrils so as to improve airflow. It’s critical that you consult a vet to assess the severity of the stenosis and whether or not surgery is a necessity. Bear in mind that early treatment can mean a better outcome for your dog.

What Happens If Stenotic Nares Is Left Untreated?

Left untreated, stenotic nares may lead to various health issues for your dog. Here are some possible consequences:

• Exercise Intolerance: Untreated stenotic nares in dogs might cause them to struggle with physical activity caused by inadequate oxygen. They might tire quickly and even avoid exercise altogether, which isn’t healthy.
• Breathing Difficulties: Stenotic nares restricts a dog’s airflow, so it’s harder for the dog to breathe. As time goes on, this might cause respiratory distress, especially during hot weather or exercise.
• Secondary Health Problems: Ongoing, chronic respiratory strain often leads to other health issues like heart problems, elongated soft palate, and laryngeal collapse.
• Heat Intolerance: Brachycephalic dog breeds are born being prone to heat intolerance. Stenotic nares make this issue worse, as this condition limits the dog’s ability to cool itself down through panting.
• Increased Risk During Anesthesia: Stenotic nares increases risk during surgery and anesthesia as it complicates almost any procedure. Anesthesia needs proper airflow.

If your dog has stenotic nares, it is essential to address the condition in order to prevent complications as well as improve quality of life.

How Can I Prevent Stenotic Nares?

Since stenotic nares is a congenital condition in brachycephalic dogs, it isn’t possible to prevent it. That being said, there are things dog owners can do to help manage the condition:

1. Use a Harness Rather Than a Neck Collar: A harness will minimize pressure on the dog’s throat and neck, thereby limiting further obstruction of the airway
2. Avoid Stress and/or Exercise in Hot or Humid Weather: Limit stressful situations for your dog or exercise during hot or humid weather that can put more of a strain on breathing.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining an appropriate weight may help reduce respiratory stress for your dog.
4. Surgical Correction: For severe cases, surgery may be necessary to improve your dog’s airway flow.