Dog Mass Removal Surgery in Fairlawn, OH
Lump and Tumor Removal for Dogs and Cats
Finding a lump on your dog can be unsettling. Some masses are harmless, while others require surgical removal and further evaluation. The only way to know for certain is through examination and, in many cases, testing.
At Copley Fairlawn Veterinary Clinic, we carefully evaluate skin masses and internal growths to determine whether surgery is recommended. When removal is necessary, we guide you through the process clearly so you understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
We provide dog mass removal surgery and lump removal for families in Fairlawn, Copley, and the surrounding Akron area.
When Should a Lump Be Evaluated?
Not every lump is dangerous, but every new lump should be examined.
We recommend scheduling an exam if you notice:
- A new growth on your dog’s skin
- A lump that is increasing in size
- A mass that changes shape or color
- Redness, discharge, or irritation
- Signs of discomfort when touched
Some masses grow slowly and remain benign. Others may be cancerous. Early evaluation helps determine the best course of action.
How We Evaluate Masses?
The first step is a physical examination. In many cases, we recommend a fine needle aspirate, which allows us to collect cells from the mass and evaluate them under a microscope.
Depending on the findings, we may recommend:
- Monitoring the mass
- Surgical removal
- Biopsy for further testing
If a mass appears suspicious or continues to grow, removal is often recommended so it can be examined more thoroughly.
Abdominal Exploratory Surgery
If your pet is vomiting, experiencing abdominal pain, or may have swallowed a foreign object, exploratory surgery allows us to identify and treat problems such as intestinal obstruction, foreign bodies, or abdominal masses. In some cases, biopsies are taken to better understand chronic digestive issues.
What Is Dog Mass Removal Surgery?
Dog mass removal surgery involves carefully excising the lump along with an appropriate margin of surrounding tissue. This helps ensure complete removal, especially if the mass is cancerous.
Before surgery, we perform a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to evaluate organ function and anesthesia safety.
During surgery, we monitor heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and temperature continuously. Pain management begins before the procedure and continues through recovery.
Removed tissue is often submitted for laboratory evaluation to determine whether the mass is benign or malignant.
What Types of Masses Require Surgery?
Mass removal surgery may be recommended for:
- Skin tumors
- Lipomas that interfere with movement
- Mast cell tumors
- Rapidly growing lumps
- Ulcerated or infected masses
- Internal masses identified on imaging
Not every lump requires immediate removal, but growth, irritation, or abnormal testing results often indicate the need for surgery.
Recovery After Lump Removal Surgery
Recovery depends on the size and location of the mass.
Most dogs require:
- Restricted activity for 10 to 14 days
- Monitoring of the incision site
- Use of an e-collar to prevent licking
- Follow-up visits if sutures need removal
Mild swelling or bruising may occur initially. We provide detailed discharge instructions and remain available if concerns arise during healing.
If laboratory results are pending, we contact you to discuss findings and whether additional treatment is recommended.
What Happens If a Mass Is Not Removed
Some benign masses may remain stable for years. However, others may continue to grow, become irritated, or interfere with movement.
Cancerous tumors may spread if not addressed early. Because appearance alone does not confirm whether a lump is benign or malignant, evaluation is important.
Early removal often allows for smaller incisions and simpler recovery compared to waiting until the mass enlarges.
Is Tumor Surgery Safe?
All surgery carries some level of risk. We reduce risk by performing pre-surgical evaluations, recommending bloodwork when appropriate, and monitoring closely during anesthesia.
We also discuss potential complications and expected recovery before scheduling surgery so you feel prepared.
Our goal is to provide safe, thoughtful care tailored to your dog’s condition.
Why Families in Fairlawn Choose Us for Mass Removal
Finding a lump can be stressful. Families in Fairlawn and Copley trust us because we focus on:
- Clear evaluation and explanation
- Careful surgical planning
- Structured anesthesia monitoring
- Detailed recovery guidance
- Ongoing communication about lab results
Dr. Ashley Staycheff and our team work together to provide individualized care for every patient.
For more information about our broader surgical services, visit our Advanced Surgery page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mass Removal
Are all lumps on dogs cancerous?
No. Many lumps are benign. However, examination and testing are necessary to determine the nature of the mass.
How do I know if my dog’s lump is serious?
Rapid growth, ulceration, discharge, or changes in size may indicate the need for further evaluation.
Does mass removal surgery hurt?
We provide structured pain management before, during, and after surgery to support comfort.
Will my dog need chemotherapy after tumor surgery?
Not all tumors require additional treatment. Laboratory results determine whether further therapy is recommended.
How long does it take to recover from lump removal surgery?
Most dogs recover within 10 to 14 days, depending on the size and location of the mass.
Should I wait and see if the lump grows?
Some masses can be monitored, but delaying evaluation may allow certain tumors to enlarge. Early examination is recommended.
Get Started with Vello
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Introducing Vello
A Better Way to Stay Connected
We’re excited to announce that starting August 4th, our clinic is using Vello, a convenient text messaging app designed to make communication with us easier than ever. With the Vello app, you can easily get appointment reminders, request visits, text our team, and enjoy faster, more convenient service - all from your phone.
We encourage all appointment requests to go through the Vello app beginning August 4th, so you can enjoy a smoother, more connected experience with our team.
Schedule a Lump Evaluation in Fairlawn
If you have found a lump on your dog or cat, we are here to help you determine the next steps.
We will examine the mass, discuss whether testing or removal is appropriate, and guide you through the process with clarity.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation
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Different Procedures We Offer
Spay/Neuter
Spaying is the surgical removal of a female dog’s reproductive organs to prevent reproduction. Neutering involves removing both testicles in male dogs to render them infertile.
Exploratory Surgeries and Biopsies
Cytology involves examining cell samples under a microscope to help diagnose tumors, fluid buildup, or issues in organs like the liver or lungs. A biopsy is the surgical removal of tissue for detailed microscopic analysis of suspicious lesions.
TTA/CCL Repairs
A common knee injury in dogs is a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), similar to the ACL in humans. This ligament helps stabilize the knee, and when torn, it causes the shin bone to move abnormally, leading to pain, lameness, and joint damage. Over time, this instability can result in osteoarthritis.
MPL Procedures
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position in the groove at the end of the thighbone. This condition causes instability in the knee joint and can lead to discomfort or difficulty walking.
Amputation Services
Amputation is a surgical procedure to remove a pet’s limb, often due to cancer, severe injury, infection, or chronic pain. Forelimb amputations usually involve removing the entire limb, while hindlimb amputations are done at the hip or upper thigh. In some cases, modifications may be made to allow for a prosthetic limb.
Fracture Repairs
In many cases, surgical stabilization is recommended for treating fractures in pets. Unlike humans, dogs and cats often fracture major bones like the femur or humerus, which can't be easily treated with splints or casts.
Mass Removals
Finding a lump under your pet’s skin can be alarming and should be checked by a vet. Many are harmless lipomas (fatty tumors), but some may involve mast cells, which are part of the immune system. Proper diagnosis is important to determine if the lump is benign or cancerous.
Splenectomy
The spleen is a tongue-shaped organ located below the stomach with a texture similar to the liver. While dogs can live without it, the spleen plays a supportive role in overall health.
Cystotomy
Bladder stones are mineral formations that develop in the urinary bladder, ranging in size from tiny grains to larger rocks. They often result from bladder disease or inflammation and can appear as a single stone or a mix of various sizes.
Perineal Urethrostomy (PU)
A perineal urethrostomy (PU) is a surgical procedure for male cats with urinary blockages. It widens the urethral opening to make urination easier and reduce the risk of future obstructions.
C-Sections
A caesarean section (C-section) is a major surgery to deliver puppies, often done in emergencies when natural birth is difficult. Most dogs recover quickly, but if labor was prolonged before surgery, recovery may be slower and require extra care.
