SURGERY
Veterinary Surgery Services in Brisbane & Gold Coast
If your pet has been referred for surgery at Veterinary Specialist Services (VSS), you’re in safe hands. Our specialist surgeons perform advanced orthopaedic, soft-tissue and minimally invasive (keyhole) procedures, supported by on-site imaging, anaesthesia specialists, and 24/7 nursing and ICU care. We’ll guide you through every step, from the first consult to recovery at home.
Our surgical teams are based in Brisbane (Underwood and Jindalee) and Gold Coast (Carrara) hospitals.

Why Choose VSS for Veterinary Surgery?
Types of Veterinary Surgery Performed at VSS
Some of the most common types of surgery we perform on dogs and cats include:
Laparoscopic Desexing (Fixed Price)
Cardiac (heart) surgery
Head and neck surgery (neurosurgery)
Minimally-invasive surgery
Abdominal surgery
Urinary tract surgery
Reconstructive and plastic surgery
Gastrointestinal surgery
Liver biopsy and liver surgery
Skin surgery (including skin cancers and melanomas)
Tumour and carcinoma removal and surgical oncology services
These surgeries are routinely performed by our team of veterinary surgeons and specialists at our Brisbane (Underwood and Jindalee) and Gold Coast (Carrara) hospitals. We also collaborate with specialists in neurology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, feline and diagnostic imaging to tailor treatment plans for complex cases.
Anaesthesia
Many pet owners are concerned about veterinary procedures that require an anaesthetic for their dog or cat. The risks of anesthesia can be greatly minimised with correct planning prior to the procedure, careful monitoring while the dog or cat is anaesthetised and diligent aftercare.
Every pet is different, and anesthesia protocols are customised to meet the needs of each individual animal. For example, a senior pet or one with an underlying health problem might require a different anesthesia protocol than a young, healthy dog or cat.
We aim to have our patients eating well and comfortable by the time of discharge.
Click here to visit our dedicated Anaesthesia Services page.
Cutting-Edge Facilities & Technology
VSS invests in state-of-the-art surgical theatres and equipment including:
- Near-infrared fluorescence imaging for enhanced surgical precision
- Electrosurgical tools (e.g. Ligasure, Caiman)
- Fluoroscopy and arthroscopy for minimally invasive diagnostics
- Laparoscopy and thoracoscopy for abdominal and chest procedures
- Urethral and ureteral stenting for urinary tract conditions.
These technologies allow us to deliver safer procedures, reduced recovery times and better outcomes.
What to Expect When Your Pet Visits VSS

From your first consultation, we aim to make the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible by:
Referral & booking: Your family vet refers your pet to us. Our team reviews the case and books your consultation.
Consultation: You’ll meet the surgeon to discuss findings, options and estimated costs. Further imaging (e.g., X-ray/CT) may be arranged the same day.
Surgery day: We’ll confirm fasting instructions and admission time. Your pet is closely monitored under anaesthesia by trained staff and advanced equipment.
Recovery & updates: We’ll call you after surgery. Some pets go home the same day; others are observed overnight with 24/7 nursing.
Discharge & at-home care: You’ll receive written instructions (activity, wound care, medications) and a direct contact if you have concerns.
Follow-up: We’ll schedule a revisit and, if needed, physiotherapy/rehab to support a safe return to normal life.
Our goal is to empower families and referring practices with knowledge and confidence in their pet or patient’s care journey.
Working with your family vet
We partner closely with your regular veterinarian. They share your pet’s history with us, and we share updates, discharge notes and ongoing care plans so everything stays coordinated.
Costs & payment (transparent expectations)
Every patient and procedure is different. You’ll receive a personalised estimate after your consultation once we’ve confirmed the diagnosis and plan. If you have pet insurance, we can provide an itemised invoice; pre-approval may be possible with some insurers. For a personalised estimate, please contact us.
Locations
Underwood
- Open for consultations and emergencies 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday to Friday.
- Emergencies available Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.
- Hospitalised patients are cared for 24/7/365 by our team of veterinarians.
- MRI machine available.
Carrara
- Open for consultations and emergencies 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday to Friday.
- Hospitalised patients are cared for 24/7/365 by our team of veterinarians.
- CT machine available.
Jindalee
- Referral and emergency hospital, staffed 24/7.
- CT machine available.
Our Team
To learn more about our specialist surgery team and the locations you'll find them, please visit the pages below:
Resources
We have printable brochures that explain our Surgery Referral Services to pet owners. These can be found, ordered and printed here:
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