Alleviate disruptive snoring and sleep apnea with surgical intervention. Our fellowship-trained head and neck surgeons and ENT specialists tackle the root cause of sleep apnea to restore smooth breathing during sleep. Schedule your consultation to start sleeping restfully today.
Treat Sleep Apnea
& Sleep Restfully
Surgery for snoring and sleep apnea aims to resolve breathing obstructions that disrupt sleep. It includes various procedures that target specific anatomical structures, such as the soft palate, uvula, or throat tissues, to widen the airway. Our surgeons offer advanced surgical interventions, such as hypoglossal nerve stimulators and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), to reduce airway blockages, improve airflow during sleep, and alleviate snoring and sleep apnea.
Surgery for Snoring & Sleep Apnea Treats:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Chronic snoring
- Upper airway obstruction during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Frequent awakenings during the night
- Gasping or choking sensations during sleep
- Poor sleep quality and disrupted sleep patterns
- Associated health risks such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke
The Types of Surgery for Snoring & Sleep Apnea
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator
A hypoglossal nerve stimulator is a surgically implanted device designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It works by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve, which controls the movement of the tongue and other throat muscles. During sleep, the device detects breathing patterns and delivers mild electrical pulses to the hypoglossal nerve, thereby keeping the airway open. This offers an alternative for those who may not benefit from traditional surgeries or CPAP therapy.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure aimed at treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. During UPPP, the surgeon removes excess tissue from the throat, including parts of the uvula, soft palate, and pharynx. This helps to widen the airway, reducing the likelihood of obstruction during sleep. By addressing anatomical factors contributing to OSA, UPPP can significantly improve breathing and sleep quality.
Advantages of Surgery for Snoring & Sleep Apnea:
- Lasting relief from snoring and sleep apnea symptoms
- Improved quality of sleep and daytime alertness
- Reduction in health risks like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases
- Decreased dependency on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Potential elimination of the need for nightly interventions or devices
- Enhanced overall quality of life and well-being
- Customized surgical approaches tailored to individual patient needs
Surgery for Snoring & Sleep Apnea FAQs
How do I know if I need surgery for my snoring or sleep apnea?
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments like lifestyle changes, CPAP, or oral appliances have proven ineffective or intolerable. Your doctor will assess the severity of your condition, its underlying causes, and your overall health to determine if surgery is appropriate.
What are the risks associated with surgery for snoring and sleep apnea?
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with surgery for snoring and sleep apnea. These may include bleeding, infection, pain, swelling, changes in voice, and in rare cases, complications related to anesthesia. However, our fellowship-trained surgeons take all possible measures to mitigate these risks and ensure optimal results.
How effective is surgery for snoring and sleep apnea?
The effectiveness of surgery depends on factors like the type of procedure performed, the severity of your condition, and individual anatomical factors. Some patients experience significant improvement in symptoms, while others may still require additional treatments or interventions to manage their sleep apnea or snoring.
What is the recovery process like after surgery for snoring and sleep apnea?
Generally, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and temporary changes in speech or swallowing in the days following surgery. Your doctor will provide specific post-operative instructions, including recommendations for pain management, diet, and activity levels. It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully to promote healing and minimize complications.
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before or after surgery?
Making healthy lifestyle changes can complement the effects of surgery and improve your sleep quality. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side instead of your back. Your doctor may also recommend quitting smoking, as it can exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms and hinder recovery.
How long does it take to see results after surgery for snoring and sleep apnea?
Some patients may experience immediate relief from symptoms, while others may require several weeks or even months to notice significant improvements in their sleep quality and daytime symptoms. During the recovery process, it’s essential to be patient and communicate any concerns or changes with your healthcare provider.
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Your Consultation
Alaska Facial Plastic Surgery and ENT is your premier destination for expert care in addressing snoring and sleep apnea. Ours is the only practice in Alaska with surgeons boasting three combined fellowships in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, advanced head and neck oncology, and rhinology/skull base surgery. As an elite team, we collaborate seamlessly to guarantee optimal outcomes for our patients. Schedule your consultation today to take the first step towards better sleep and improved quality of life.
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