TECA ear surgery cost for dogs
TECA removes the whole ear canal. It's a last-resort surgery for ears that stay infected and painful despite treatment.
Last updated: October 2026 · US prices · 3 sources · see sources
What it costs
| Item | Typical US price | Src |
|---|---|---|
| One surgery practice's fee, one ear | $3,800 | [1] |
| Same practice, both ears | $5,500 | [1] |
| Animal hospital published range (Maryland) | $2,000 – $2,600 | [2] |
Each source measures something a little different: published clinic prices, national averages or real owner bills. Use them to plan, and ask your vet for a written estimate.
What it is
TECA (total ear canal ablation), usually done with a bulla osteotomy, removes the diseased ear canal and cleans out the middle ear. The outer ear flap stays. [3]
When vets recommend it
It's used for end-stage ear disease, where the canal has thickened or hardened, and for some ear canal tumors. [3]
Recovery and aftercare
Dogs usually go home after a short stay with pain medicine and a cone. Hearing on that side is reduced, though many already hear poorly in that ear. [3]
Medicines vets often use around this treatment: Cephalexin, Gabapentin. We don't list doses; your vet will decide what fits your pet.
What affects the cost
- Who does it Board-certified specialists and referral hospitals usually charge more than general practices.
- Your pet's size and health Bigger pets need more anesthesia and medicine, and pets with other illnesses may need extra tests or monitoring.
- Planned or emergency Emergency and after-hours care costs more than a scheduled procedure.
- Where you live Prices in big coastal cities tend to run higher than in smaller towns.
Common questions
How much does TECA ear surgery for dogs cost?
One surgery practice's fee, one ear: $3,800. Same practice, both ears: $5,500. Your vet's written estimate is what counts, since prices vary by clinic, region and your pet's needs.
Will pet insurance pay for it?
Many accident-and-illness plans help with treatment like this if the problem isn't pre-existing and any waiting period has passed. Check your policy, and ask your vet for an itemized estimate you can send to the insurer ahead of time.
Related
This page is general information for pet owners, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.