Mass Removal Surgery in Dogs and Cats
What It Is, Why It's Needed, What to Expect, and How We Support You
Why Might Your Pet Need This Surgery?
A "mass" refers to any lump, growth, or abnormal tissue on or under your pet's skin. Surgical removal may be recommended if the mass:
- Is growing, ulcerated, bleeding, or infected
- Causes discomfort or interferes with movement
- Is in a high-risk location (eyelid, paw, mammary chain, etc.)
- Has been diagnosed or is suspected to be malignant
- Requires biopsy to confirm diagnosis
Some masses are benign and slow-growing, while others may be aggressive or cancerous. Surgical removal allows for treatment and diagnostic evaluation through histopathology.
Veterinary Referral: Recommended, Not Required
A referral from your regular veterinarian is recommended but not required for mass removal surgery. You are welcome to schedule directly with us; however:
- If the mass is in a sensitive location (toe, mammary tissue, etc.)
- If it is invasive, infected, or very large
- If the patient is systemically ill or unstable
...a pre-surgical visit may be required to determine whether surgery can be performed at our facility and what category the procedure will fall under.
We may also recommend follow-up with your veterinarian for diagnostics, imaging, or long-term management depending on the case.
How Our Mass Removal Packages Work
Our surgical packages are divided into five categories (I–V) based on:
- Size of the mass
- Location (e.g., face, digit, trunk, joint)
- Depth and complexity (superficial vs. invasive)
- Whether the mass is ulcerated, infected, or suspected malignant
- Whether additional wound reconstruction or closure techniques are required
The category and associated price will be determined by the medical team at the time of surgery, based on the actual findings and complexity of the procedure.
| Category | Description | Package Price |
|---|---|---|
| Category I | Tiny, superficial, Simple location | $220 |
| Category II | Small size, mild complexity | $330 |
| Category III | Moderate size or challenging location | $440 |
| Category IV | Large size, deeper tissue, high complexity | $660 |
| Category V | Extra-large size or invasive or end stage, advanced closure techniques required | $880 |
In some cases, a pre-surgical exam may be recommended or required to determine if surgery is appropriate and what category your pet’s procedure will fall under.
We are happy to provide a price estimate range beforehand—but please note that final pricing is determined by the attending surgeon on the day of surgery.
What Does the Surgery Involve?
Mass removal is performed under general anesthesia. The area is clipped, cleaned, and the mass is surgically excised with margins of surrounding tissue when appropriate. Depending on the location and size, skin may be closed with sutures or left to heal by secondary intention. Samples may be submitted for histopathology based on your preference or the surgeon's recommendation.
Are There Alternatives?
- Monitoring the mass for changes in size, shape, or behavior
- Needle aspiration or biopsy (diagnostic only)
- Medical management (if infectious or inflammatory)
Surgery is the most definitive method for treatment and diagnosis in many cases.
What Are the Benefits?
- Removes the source of discomfort, infection, or risk
- Allows for biopsy and diagnosis if tissue is submitted
- Reduces risk of trauma, ulceration, or further spread
What Are the Risks?
- Anesthetic complications
- Infection or wound breakdown
- Incomplete removal of malignant masses or tumor regrowth
- Need for additional surgery or oncology care
What's Included in Our Surgical Care
Mass Removal Surgery Packages: From $220.00 to $880.00
All mass removal packages include:
- A personalized anesthesia plan with multimodal pain control
- IV catheter placement and fluids
- Anesthesia and multiparameter monitoring
- Surgical excision of the mass(es)
- Post-op stabilization and in-clinic recovery
- Take-home medications
- Discharge instructions and recovery plan
Histopathology (biopsy) is optional and can be added upon request or surgeon recommendation.
Histopathology fee: $106.00/sample
When Additional Care Is Needed
Most pets undergoing mass removal surgery do not require overnight care and are discharged the same day. For many patients this is a minor procedure and is well tolerated by healthy patients.
If complications arise, or if your pet has other health concerns requiring more intensive care, we may recommend transfer to an emergency or specialty facility. This may occur if:
- Your pet experiences unexpected anesthetic or recovery complications
- They require 24-hour medications or monitoring
- They are systemically ill or severely debilitated
Should we find signs of advanced neoplasia (cancer) or another issue contributing to the condition, we may advise follow-up with your regular veterinarian for additional testing or treatment to ensure the best outcome.
Any costs associated with overnight or continued care will be the owner’s responsibility.
Aftercare: What to Expect at Home
Your pet will go home with:
- Oral medications for pain and inflammation
- Instructions for incision monitoring, activity restriction, and e-collar use
- Guidance on when to return for recheck or suture removal
- A copy of any biopsy results if tissue was submitted
Some mild bruising or swelling is expected. Most pets recover quickly and comfortably with proper care.
Have Questions?
We're happy to review records, provide estimates, and coordinate with your veterinarian. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about the procedure, healing, or pricing.