Episioplasty, which is also acknowledged as vulvoplasty, is a surgical operation that your veterinarian may recommend to repair a conformational condition in your female dog known as a recessed vulva. In this condition, folds of skin can be seen hanging over the vulva of a dog. The risk is increased in spayed female dogs. Additionally, some evidence shows that the earlier in life dogs are spayed, the greater the likelihood that they would suffer from this problem in later years. But worry not; the recessed vulva can be entirely cured by the surgical procedure known as episioplasty.
Episioplasty Cost in Dogs
Episioplasty or vulvoplasty may cost between $1000 and $2000. But dog owners might quickly rack up veterinary expenditures in the range of $3000 to $5000 if their canine companion requires the intervention of a specialist’s caliber at the moment it is diagnosed with another disease such as diabetes.
Factors Associated with Episioplasty Costs
The severity of this ailment is the primary factor determining the expense associated with this condition. In the event that chronic infections develop and repeated cycles of antibiotic treatment are necessary, continuing costs in the amount of several hundred dollars a month may be necessary.
On the other hand, a one-time episioplasty performed by a board-certified surgeon frequently has a success rate of one hundred percent in healing the problem.
Sadly, a significant number of pet owners are put off by the cost of the surgery ($1000 to $3000), which causes them to postpone their decision to have it done.
Does pet insurance cover episioplasty?
Yes, episioplasty or recessed valvular treatment in dogs is one of the disorders that is usually covered by pet insurance. Pet dog insurance is usually around $30 to $50 per month.
Episioplasty Procedure
In reality, episioplasty is a remodeling surgery aiming to remove the superfluous skin folds/curves around the valvular region. During this surgical procedure, your vet will precisely measure a part of the extra skin in the shape of a horseshoe or an upside-down letter “U.” The skin folds surrounding and concealing the valvular regions are cut off during this procedure. This helps in the recovery of the vulva to normal form. In the end, the sutures are placed, and surgery is completed.
Prognosis and Aftercare
Even though an episioplasty/valvuloplasty is not regarded to be a “major” surgical procedure, there is still a certain recovery period that must be observed after the procedure and the time required for the surgical site to heal. After surgery, there is still a chance for pups to experience pain, swelling, and infection. Applying cold compresses to the affected area during the first 36 to 48 hours after the surgery will help reduce inflammation. Because the surgical incision causes irritation in most animals, the veterinarian will recommend that the pet wear a specialized collar until the stitches are removed. After 8-14 days have passed after surgery, the sutures are removed.
How long does the episioplasty procedure take?
With the exception of the vaginal canal, episioplasty will restore all of the components of female dog genitalia. If your dog undergoes this treatment, he/she will no longer be able to engage in reproductive activity that involves penetration for almost 1 month. The operation is performed while the patient is under the influence of general anesthesia, and it typically lasts between two and three hours.
How successful is the episioplasty procedure for dogs?
An episioplasty, or valvuloplasty, is a procedure that, when performed correctly, is an uncomplicated and long-term remedy for dogs experiencing issues due to having huge skin folds. The great majority of dogs that have this surgery are entirely cured of their persistent UTIs and dermatitis after the procedure.
Conclusion
If your female dog has a conformational problem known as a recessed vulva, your veterinarian may propose a surgical procedure called episioplasty. Episioplasty or vulvoplasty might cost between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on the specifics of the procedure. However, dog owners may easily rack up $3000 to $5000 in veterinary expenses if their canine friend needs a specialist’s intervention for an illness like diabetes.
