As a devoted pet owner, you want the best possible care for your furry family member. When your pet requires surgery, it’s natural to have questions about the procedure, recovery process, and available treatment options. At Safford Veterinary Services, we provide advanced veterinary laser surgery for dogs and cats in Plano, IL and throughout DuPage, Kendall, and Kane counties. Dr. Safford has trained using the innovative VetScalpel CO2 laser system, so we can perform many common procedures with less pain, less bleeding, and a faster recovery than traditional surgery. To help you better understand this innovative treatment option, we’ve created this resource on veterinary laser surgery, answering some of the most frequently asked questions about the procedure and what you can expect for your pet’s care.
However, if you still have questions about laser surgery for your dog or cat and are in the DuPage, Kendall and Kane county area, give us a call at (331) 212-0836.
What Is Laser Surgery?
LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Instead of using a metal scalpel blade to make incisions like traditional surgery, our veterinarian uses a highly focused beam of light. That beam is precise enough to remove or reshape soft tissue exactly where needed, while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue untouched. This fundamental difference is what makes laser surgery so beneficial for your pet.
What are the benefits of Laser Surgery?
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As the laser cuts, it seals small blood vessels. This dramatic reduction in bleeding allows our surgeons a clearer view of the surgical field throughout the procedure.
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The CO2 laser seals nerve endings, resulting in less swelling and discomfort. Many pet owners are surprised by how comfortable and alert their companions are after a laser procedure.
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One of the unique features of the CO2 laser is that it efficiently destroys bacteria in its path, creating a sterilizing effect at the surgical site.
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Because there is less bleeding, less pain, and less post-operative swelling, pets treated with laser surgery typically recover faster and return to their normal routines sooner.
What conditions can be treated with Laser Surgery?
Laser surgery can be applied across a wide range of soft-tissue procedures. At Safford Veterinary Services, our veterinary team uses the VetScalpel laser for both routine and complex cases, including:
- General Surgery
- Dermatology
- ENT and Oral Surgery
- Ophthalmology
Is Laser Surgery Right for My Pet?
Most pets are great candidates! Laser surgery is safe for both dogs and cats. It's particularly worth asking about if your pet is older, has a heart condition, or has any other health factors that make you want to minimize the stress and duration of anesthesia.
During your appointment, one of our veterinarians will evaluate your pet's specific condition and health history to determine whether laser surgery is the right approach. We will walk you through every step of the process so you feel confident and informed before your pet's procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
To find out whether laser surgery is right for your pet, give us a call or text at 331-212-0836, or request an appointment online. We would love to help your pet enjoy a faster, more comfortable recovery.