Stenotic nares are nostrils that are too narrow, restricting airflow. This is a component of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — common in flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. Surgery widens the nostrils, dramatically improving breathing and quality of life.
The average cost of dog stenotic nares surgery is $1,000, with most owners paying between $500 and $2,000.
How Much Does Stenotic Nares Surgery Cost?
| Procedure | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stenotic nares surgery only | $500–$2,000 | Widens nostrils — often done during spay/neuter |
| Stenotic nares + soft palate resection (combined) | $1,500–$4,000 | Both procedures during one anesthetic — saves cost |
| Full BOAS surgery (nares + palate + saccules) | $2,000–$5,000 | Complete airway correction — nares, soft palate, everted saccules |
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam + airway assessment | $50–$150 |
| Pre-surgical blood work | $80–$200 |
| Anesthesia + monitoring (special protocol for brachycephalic dogs) | $200–$400 |
| Stenotic nares surgery | $500–$1,500 |
| Overnight hospitalization (1 night — airway monitoring) | $200–$400 |
| Take-home pain medication | $30–$60 |
| Follow-up visit | $50–$150 |
| Total | $1,110–$2,860 |
Why Do Brachycephalic Dogs Need This Surgery?
Flat-faced breeds have been bred for shortened skulls, which compresses their entire airway. Stenotic nares (narrow nostrils) is one of the most common and easily corrected components of BOAS. Left untreated, narrow nostrils force the dog to breathe harder through its mouth, which over time worsens the other airway problems (elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, and eventually laryngeal collapse).
Early correction of stenotic nares (ideally during puppy spay/neuter) can prevent progression of the entire airway syndrome. Many vets recommend nares surgery as early as 4–6 months for severely affected puppies.
Breeds That Need Stenotic Nares Surgery
- •French Bulldog (very high incidence)
- •English Bulldog
- •Pug
- •Boston Terrier
- •Shih Tzu
- •Pekingese
- •Boxer
- •Brussels Griffon
- •American Bulldog
Signs Your Dog Needs Nares Surgery
- •Loud snoring or snorting, especially during sleep
- •Noisy breathing when resting
- •Gagging or retching
- •Exercise intolerance (tires quickly, especially in heat)
- •Cyanosis (blue-tinged gums — EMERGENCY)
- •Collapse during exercise or in heat (EMERGENCY)
- •Sleep apnea (pauses in breathing during sleep)
- •Narrow, pinched-looking nostrils (visible from outside)