Snoring and Sleep Apnea Solutions

Surgical Options

Surgery is very invasive and may not be as effective as other treatments, so it should be considered as a last resort form of therapy. Surgery should only be considered for the most severe form of OSA, after all other treatments have been exhausted. There are different types of obstructions that can be corrected surgically, and it is important to understand the effectiveness and risks involved with each.

Name of Procedure	Anesthesia and Surgery Setting	Explanation of Procedure
Nasal Surgery	The procedure is performed in a surgical center (usually unassociated with a particular hospital) under general anesthesia.	Nasal surgery is generally associated with a mild amount of discomfort, which can be easily managed with medications for one to two days. The procedure decreases the size and thickness of the turbinates (tissues inside the nasal passage). Potential complications from nasal surgery include significant bleeding and infection, both of which are rare. This procedure is recommended for mild to moderate cases.
Pharyngoplasty	This procedure is performed in a hospital surgery center under general anesthesia.	This procedure increases the size of the airway by pulling back extra tissue in the pharynx. Overnight hospitalization is usually recommended afterward, and in general the patient can usually return to work in 10 to 14 days. Pharyngoplasty can be used for moderate and some severe cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Pillar	This procedure is performed in a doctor's office under local anesthesia in 20 minutes. Most patients resume normal diet and activities that same day.	This procedure entails placing three small polyester implants in the soft palate. Over time, the implants and body's fibrotic response adds structural support and stiffening of the soft palate, lifting these tissues off the back of the throat and opening the airway. Most patients experience less pain and shorter recovery time than with other procedures and with minimal complications. This procedure can be performed for mild to moderate cases.
Uvulopalatal Flap (UPPP)	This procedure is performed in a hospital surgery center under general anesthesia.	In an Uvulopalatal flap procedure, the airway is enlarged by removing or shortening the uvula and removing the tonsils and adenoids as well as part of the soft palate and roof of the mouth. Overnight hospitalization is usually recommended afterward. In general, the patient can usually return to work in 10 to 14 days. This procedure is commonly reserved for severe cases.
Maxillomandibular Advancement	This procedure is performed in a hospital surgery center under general anesthesia.	Maxillomandibular advancement surgery is three to four hours in duration. The procedure moves the upper and lower jaw forward, opening the airway. Stabilization of the jaws during the healing is achieved through small titanium plates, screws and braces (arch bars). Hospitalization is usually two to three days and in general the patient can return to work in four weeks. Chewing is avoided for four weeks. Some changes in facial appearance will occur but is usually quite acceptable. This is an invasive procedure commonly reserved for severe cases.
Genioglossus Advancement	This procedure is performed in a hospital surgery center under general anesthesia.	This procedure pulls the base of the tongue forward to open the airway. The tongue muscles are then attached to the lower jaw under the teeth. A small cut is made in the lower jaw, the bone and attachment for the tongue are pulled forward and down. The bone is fastened to the jaw with a small screw. Overnight hospitalization is usually recommended afterward and patients usually return to work in 10 to 14 days. Speech and swallowing are not affected, with this procedure. It is typically associated with pain, swelling and occasional minor numbness of the lower front teeth. This procedure is reserved for severe cases.
Maxillomandibular Expansion	This operation is performed in a hospital surgery center under general anesthesia.	Opening the airway is achieved through expanding the palate to create more space in the airway. A small cut is made on the jaws to temporarily weaken them, then an orthodontic device called a distractor is placed on the upper and lower jaws. This device slowly expands the palate in a process that takes about two weeks. About three months after surgery, orthodontics are begun to close the spaces between the teeth. Overnight hospitalization is usually recommended. There is a very slight change in facial appearance, but this is often a favorable change. This procedure is favorable for severe cases.

As seen on:

The 1-800-Snoring Advantage

We make it easy to find a professional that can stop your snoring. Best of all, our service is free. A few clicks or one phone call is all it takes to find a professional to help. To get started, just enter your ZIP code or call to speak with a sleep specialist.

The contents of the 1-800-SNORING site, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the 1-800-SNORING ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this or any website.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. 1-800-SNORING does not recommend or endorse any specific products, procedures, tests, dentists, sleep lab, physicians, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the site or phone. Reliance on any information provided by 1-800-SNORING, SolidClimb LLC, employees, is solely at your own risk.