Comprehensive, State-of-the-Art Soft Tissue Surgery Solutions for Your Pet
Soft tissue surgery encompasses procedures dealing with non-bony parts of the body, including skin, muscle, fat, and internal organs. At Western Veterinary Center (WVC), we take pride in offering top-tier soft tissue surgery services led by Dr. Rick Garcia, a seasoned veterinary surgeon known for his surgical expertise and patient-centered approach.
We can perform a full range of soft tissue procedures, including:
Head and Neck
- Siolocele (s.mucocoele)
- Parathyroidectomy
- Thyroidectomy
- Oral neoplasia
- Staphylectomy
- Rhinoplasty
- Enucleation
- Aural hematoma
- Entropion
- Corneal keratotomy
- Cherry eye (NG prolapse)
- Lateral Wall Resection
- Vertical Canal Ablation
- TECA
- Tracheal stent
Abdomen
- Splenectomy
- Liver lobectomy
- Nephrectomy
- Adrenalectomy
- Vulvoplasty
- PSS
- Ureters
- Cystotomy
- Urethrostomy
- Perineal hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Diaphragmatic hernia
- Pyometra
- Ovariohysterectomy
- Neuter (CRYPTORCHID)
- Neoplasia
- Prostate
- Mastectomy
- Gastrotomy
- Enterotomy
- Resection Anastomosis
Thorax
- Lung lobectomy
- Pericardectomy
- Thymoma excision
- Thoracic duct ligation
Our Surgical Process: What To Expect
WVC uses state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure the best care for animals undergoing surgery. Before surgery, your animal will require a physical exam, imaging tests—such as a CT scan—and pre-anesthetic blood work. If another veterinary practice refers your animal to our hospital, we will perform a physical exam to confirm their findings before surgery.
You will be given detailed instructions prior to the procedure. The following is an overview of what to expect on the day of surgery:
Preparation
- For your animal’s safety, do not feed them before surgery. Doing so may make it necessary to cancel the procedure.
- You will drop off your animal the morning of their procedure.
- We will shave your pet on the paw and at the surgical site.
Recovery
- Your pet will recover in the safety of a warm, monitored kennel.
- WVC uses the same medication, Sevoflurane/Propofol, used in children’s hospitals, which allows for faster recovery.
Aftercare
- Once your animal has recovered enough to walk, our office will contact you to arrange pick-up.
- We will provide detailed post-op/aftercare instructions. It is essential to follow these carefully to prevent reinjury and promote optimal healing and recovery.
- Before you leave, we will schedule your animals’ follow-up exam—including a physical, incision inspection, and a quick X-ray—to ensure healing is progressing as expected and to address any issues as needed. The cost of the follow-up exam is included in the surgical fee.
A Reputation for Excellence
Our expertise in soft tissue surgery has made us a trusted referral partner for veterinary hospitals throughout Southern California. We're known for our skilled, highly trained team and for performing exceptional medicine without overreaching.
Whether you're a referring veterinarian or a pet owner seeking quality surgical care, we invite you to experience the difference at WVC. If you are a pet owner, please call us today to schedule an appointment. Referring veterinarians, please visit our referral page to learn how we can work together to provide the best possible care.