CO₂ Laser Surgery
We use a state-of-the-art CO₂ laser to precisely treat a range of skin, ear, and soft-tissue conditions. CO₂ laser surgery may be referred to more generally as laser treatment, or laser therapy, although this is a specialised surgical technology designed for the precise removal of abnormal tissue and is distinct from non-surgical laser therapies.
Laser surgery allows for targeted removal of abnormal tissue while sealing small blood vessels and nerve endings, resulting in minimal bleeding, reduced post-operative discomfort, and faster healing compared with conventional surgery.
When Is CO₂ Laser Surgery Recommended?
CO₂ laser surgery is typically recommended for dogs and cats with localised skin, ear or soft tissue lesions where precise removal of abnormal tissue is required. It is most often considered when lesions are located in sensitive or difficult-to-access areas, or where conventional surgical approaches may be less suitable.
This may include pets showing signs such as:
- skin redness, irritation or rash in dogs or scabs, sores or skin lesions in cats
- licking or chewing paws in dogs or paw, nail or claw conditions in cats
- recurrent ear problems or ear infections in dogs or ear problems, irritation or discharge in cats, particularly where abnormal tissue is present
- localised swellings, ulceration or abnormal tissue requiring closer assessment
In many cases, these presentations are associated with conditions such as:
- skin lumps, growths and tumours in dogs or skin lumps, growths and tumours in cats
- nail, paw and pad conditions in dogs or nail, paw and pad conditions in cats
- ear disease in dogs or ear disease in cats, where abnormal tissue is present
CO₂ laser surgery may be recommended following a dermatology consultation and diagnostic assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your pet’s condition.
What CO₂ Laser Surgery Involves
CO₂ laser surgery uses focused light energy to remove or reshape abnormal tissue with a high degree of control. This advanced technology provides excellent precision, reduces inflammation, and lowers infection risk, making it particularly valuable for lesions in delicate or hard-to-access areas.
All procedures are performed under sedation or general anaesthesia, tailored to your pet’s individual needs and the location of the lesion. The laser allows tissue to be treated in a controlled manner while simultaneously sealing blood vessels and nerve endings, helping to minimise bleeding and swelling during and after the procedure.
CO₂ laser surgery may be recommended for:
Benign skin growths, including papillomas, sebaceous adenomas, and histiocytomas.
Lesions in sensitive or hard-to-access areas, such as paw pads, interdigital spaces, and ear canals.
Chronic pododermatitis with draining tracts, including interdigital furunculosis, that has not responded to medical management.
Early-stage or pre-cancerous lesions, where precision and tissue preservation are important.
CO₂ laser surgery is a highly specialised procedure requiring advanced equipment, dedicated training, and strict safety governance. All procedures are carried out by our experienced clinicians operating within approved safety protocols, including protective equipment, smoke evacuation systems, and structured procedural checklists to support patient comfort and welfare.
Following an initial consultation and examination, our team will advise whether laser surgery is an appropriate option based on your pet’s condition and treatment goals. Clients proceeding with treatment are provided with detailed information on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
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What You Need to Know
Precision and Control
Highly controlled removal or reshaping of abnormal tissue
Preserves surrounding healthy structures, even in delicate or confined areas
Laser surgery may allow multiple small lesions to be treated during a single procedure.
Reduced Discomfort and Faster Healing
Seals small blood vessels and nerve endings, often resulting in less bleeding, swelling and pain
Often associated with quicker recovery and reduced anaesthesia time compared with conventional surgery
Highly Specialised Equipment
State-of-the-art laser technology that helps to enhance surgical accuracy and allows treatment in delicate areas
Operated by our trained clinicians under strict safety protocols
Ongoing Care and Management
Most pets recover quickly following CO₂ laser surgery, with minimal discomfort and a shorter healing period compared to conventional surgical techniques. The treated area may appear mildly red or crusted during healing, which is expected and typically resolves over one to three weeks depending on the size and location of the site.
Specific aftercare instructions will be provided based on your pet’s procedure. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, preventing licking or rubbing, and using an Elizabethan collar or protective bandage where needed. In many cases, take-home pain relief is not required, but this will be discussed if indicated.
Follow-up is tailored to the individual case. Some patients require a recheck to assess healing, particularly when lesions are located in high-movement or sensitive areas such as the feet or ears. Our team remains available to answer questions and review any concerns during recovery to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
Preparing For Your Pet’s CO₂ Laser Surgery
An information sheet has been prepared for our clients who are considering or preparing for their pet’s CO₂ laser procedure, to help explain what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pet is a good candidate for laser surgery?
Our clinician will assess your pet’s lesion, overall health, and medical history during a consultation to determine whether CO₂ laser surgery is appropriate.
Not all growths or skin conditions are suitable for this treatment.
Can multiple lesions be treated in the same procedure?
Yes, where appropriate, several lesions can be treated in one session.
Our clinicians will discuss the safest and most effective approach for your pet.
Will my pet need special care after leaving the clinic?
Most pets require standard post-procedure precautions, such as preventing licking or rubbing the treated area and keeping it clean.
Any additional care will be provided based on your pet’s specific procedure and needs.
Is general anaesthesia always required for laser surgery?
Anaesthesia or sedation is always used to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety. The type and depth are tailored to the procedure and your pet’s health status. Your clinician will advise what is necessary for your pet.
How soon can my pet resume normal activity?
Most pets return to their usual activity levels quickly, often within a day or two.
Our clinicians will provide guidance if any temporary restrictions are needed for optimal healing.
Pricing
Initial consultation: $425
Revisit consultation: $205
Cytology: $99
Intradermal allergy testing: $900
All other fees discussed during consultation
Referring Vets
If you are a veterinarian referring a patient for this service, please use our referral form or contact our team with relevant history, previous test results, current medications and treatment response.