If you’re a bulldog parent, you’ve probably fallen in love with those adorable wrinkles and folds that make your pup’s face so irresistibly squishy. While these folds give bulldogs their distinctive charm, they can sometimes become a source of ongoing health problems. When deep facial folds trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, they create the perfect environment for chronic infections that can make your furry friend uncomfortable and unhappy.
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, we understand the unique challenges that come with caring for flat-faced breeds. Dr. Sam specializes in bulldog care and has extensive experience helping these special pups live their most comfortable lives. Our family-owned practice combines advanced surgical expertise with the personalized care your beloved companion deserves.
Understanding Facial Folds and Chronic Infections
Facial folds are the deep creases that form around your bulldog’s nose, eyes, and mouth area. These wrinkles may look cute, but they can become problematic when they’re too deep or positioned in a way that prevents proper air circulation. The warm, moist environment inside these folds becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, leading to persistent infections.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, skin conditions are among the most common health issues affecting brachycephalic breeds, with facial fold dermatitis being particularly prevalent in bulldogs and similar flat-faced dogs. Unlike breathing problems that require separate procedures, such as stenotic nares repair, facial fold infections are a skin condition that affects your dog’s comfort and quality of life. You might notice a musty odor coming from the folds, redness, swelling, or discharge. Some dogs develop painful sores or crusty buildup in these areas.
Signs Your Bulldog Needs Facial Fold Resection
Chronic infections in facial folds don’t just go away on their own, and they often return despite regular cleaning and medication. Watch for these warning signs that suggest surgical intervention might be necessary:
- Persistent odor from the facial folds
- Recurring infections despite treatment
- Red, inflamed skin in the fold areas
- Discharge or crusty buildup
- Your dog pawing at or scratching the affected areas
If your bulldog seems uncomfortable around their face or you find yourself constantly battling the same skin infections, it’s time to consider a more permanent solution. Facial fold resection can eliminate the problem areas while preserving your dog’s natural appearance.
What Happens During Facial Fold Resection
Facial fold resection is a specialized surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from areas of concern, such as problematic folds. Dr. Sam carefully reshapes these areas to reduce the depth of the folds while maintaining your dog’s distinctive bulldog features. The goal is to create better air circulation and easier access for cleaning, which prevents future infections.
This procedure differs from breathing surgeries that address stenotic nares or other airway issues. While some bulldogs may need both types of procedures, facial fold resection specifically targets the skin fold infections. The surgery typically takes one to two hours under general anesthesia, and most dogs can go home the same day or after an overnight observation period.
Recovery and Long-Term Care
Recovery from facial fold resection usually involves keeping the surgical sites clean and dry, managing any discomfort with prescribed medications, and preventing your dog from scratching the healing areas. Most dogs show significant improvement within a few weeks, and the results are typically long-lasting.
Once the folds heal properly, you’ll find it much easier to keep your bulldog’s face clean and free from infection. Many pet parents are amazed at how much happier their dogs seem when they’re no longer dealing with chronic facial infections. Your pup may be more playful, comfortable, and eager for face pets without the discomfort of infected folds.
Why Choose Broadway Veterinary Hospital for Facial Fold Surgery
Dr. Sam has extensive experience with bulldog-specific procedures, including facial fold resections, cherry eye repairs, and entropion corrections. As UC Davis graduates, our entire veterinary team understands the unique needs of brachycephalic breeds and stays current with the latest surgical techniques and procedures. We take pride in our family-owned approach, ensuring that both you and your pet receive personalized attention throughout the entire process.
Our advanced surgical equipment and monitoring systems ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the procedure. We’ll work closely with you to determine the best treatment approach and provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to support optimal healing. Whether your bulldog needs facial fold resection, breathing surgery, or other specialized care, we’re here to help them live their most comfortable life. Contact Broadway Veterinary Hospital at (916) 446-6154 or reach out through our contact form to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help your beloved companion feel better.