Dr. Boaz Man – 2026 Kumar Patel Prize Recipient
2026 Kumar Patel Prize Recipient for outstanding contributions to BOAS laser surgery education
Boaz Man, DVM
From a young age, I’ve been deeply connected to animals, which has fueled my lifelong dedication to helping them. In 2002, while working at Boca Village Animal Hospital, I was introduced to laser surgery. My veterinary oath to alleviate pet suffering has consistently driven me to make informed decisions in their care. Staying up to date with the latest technology has always been crucial for me, and I discovered that laser surgery was a key component of my success in general veterinary practice.
After graduating from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2004, I continued working in South Florida practices that utilized laser surgery. I’ve observed its benefits in small animal practice and can’t imagine returning to traditional methods. Educating pet owners about optimal animal care is essential, as we advocate for pets who can’t speak for themselves.
Over the past 22 years, I’ve witnessed remarkable advancements in laser surgery technology. My practice attracts pet owners seeking superior surgical options, prioritizing quality of care over appointment volume. Laser surgery cases have set our practice apart, and I’ve dedicated years to sharing success stories on our YouTube channel, website, and social media platforms.
A turning point came when my first viral video on Instagram showed a French Bulldog thriving after BOAS surgery. Every time a dog can’t breathe properly and then suddenly is brought back to life, something very magical takes place. The transformation and improvement in the quality of life are not comparable to anything else. These experiences highlight my responsibility to address these animal welfare issues in popular dog breeds.
Previously, I referred BOAS cases to specialists after ineffective “wait and see” methods, missing opportunities for early corrective surgery. I realized that when we recognize abnormal anatomy and intervene at an early age, we increase the likelihood of the greatest success for short-nosed pets who suffer from airway obstruction. I feel honored to be a speaker for my 5th consecutive year at the Veterinary Laser Surgery Symposium, educating those interested in learning about the applications of laser surgery. It is also my privilege to help lead and train the next generation of veterinarians interested in learning BOAS laser surgery.
Laser surgery offers numerous benefits, including minimal bleeding, minimized pain, reduced swelling, reduced recovery time, and improved outcomes for pets. It’s a safe and effective option for many surgical procedures, making it a valuable tool for veterinarians.
Having a minimally invasive surgical laser for BOAS allows for precise marking of tissue, bloodless cuts in vascularized tissue, optimal visualization, eliminates the concern of suture reactions, and drastically improves the recovery process for short-nosed pets, all of which make it a real game changer. Performing minimally invasive BOAS laser surgery significantly enhances a dog’s quality of life and provides lasting, long-term benefits, helping pets affected by BOAS lead better lives.
As veterinarians, we are sworn to assist all suffering pets and educate the world on how to help them live their best lives. I am honored to represent the ultimate surgical tool in veterinary practice and feel privileged to be a key opinion leader on this crucial animal welfare issue known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.
Dr. Man’s Biographical Highlights
Dr. Boaz Man has been the owner and medical director of Boca Midtowne Animal Hospital since 2013, which is AAHA-accredited as well as a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice.
Dr. Man earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Miami and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University in 2004, and grew up surrounded by medicine, with his father and both grandfathers being well-respected doctors.
Dr. Man has 22 years of experience in private practice and is passionate about staying up to date on continuing education and the latest and greatest in veterinary technology. Being the sole practitioner, he often involves veterinary experts to help provide the most thorough veterinary care available.
Dr. Man serves on the Fear Free advisory board and is an editorial advisory board member for DVM 360, and regularly contributes content for the printed magazine as well as for their social media. Dr. Man is excited to have published two cover articles for the DVM 360 magazine in April 2024, “Addressing brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in general practice,” and in Veterinary Practice News in March 2025, “BOAS crisis: Addressing the brachycephalic animal welfare problem.”
He enjoys sharing Instagram video blogs @bocamidtownevet, educating pet lovers on hot topics, and educating pet parents through his YouTube channel.
Dr. Man has presented hot-topic general practice lectures at Fetch DVM in San Diego & Kansas City and laser surgery lectures at the VLSS in Las Vegas, San Antonio, San Diego, and Clearwater Beach.