Surgery for Snoring
While many people choose to treat snoring with over the counter or non-invasive methods, these methods only treat the symptoms of an underlying cause. In many cases snoring can only be effectively eliminated with a surgical procedure.
If there’s an abnormality in the mouth or throat, things like anti-snoring pillows or mouthpieces may not provide long term results. In cases where the soft palate is too long, or there is excess tissue or swelling from the tonsils or uvula surgery may be the best option. There are several types of surgery for snoring available, and some may be better suited than others depending on the root cause of snoring.
Things to Consider Before Undertaking Surgery
Even the least invasive surgeries can carry some risks. If you have tried other methods and not found relief your doctor may suggest surgery. There are several things you should give careful consideration to before jumping onto the operating table. We highlight some of the most important things to consider before undertaking surgery.
Consider the risk of anesthesia. If you need to be put under general anesthesia there are several risk factors you should know. Complications can range from excess pain, reduced respiratory function, irregular heartbeats and system toxicity. Local anesthesia has fewer risks and is a better option for those with certain heart conditions.
Think about the recovery times. Some surgeries will only take a short amount of time and allow you to return to work immediately, while others will require several days to a week to recover enough to go back to your normal routine.
Consider the costs involved. Many insurance plans will only cover basic procedures, and only if they are deemed absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, a lot of surgeries designed to stop snoring aren’t considered necessary and can therefore cost you more out of your own pocket.
Laser Surgery for Snoring
The old method for tightening tissue in the throat that can cause snoring is called uvulapalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). This procedure requires general anesthesia, and the surgeon will make larger incisions. While this method is still used in some cases a friendlier version using lasers is also available.
LAUP (laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty) is a good alternative for those who are at an increased risk of complications from general anesthesia. LAUP works by using lasers to change the size of the uvula so it creates fewer restrictions in the airways. This procedure is only recommended for people who have already had their tonsils removed.
It’s performed under local anesthesia and recovery times are much shorter than they are with UPPP. It’s important to note that studies have shown only short term success with this procedure. One large scale study has shown that the effectiveness of laser surgery for snoring wears off after just 2 years and the same study showed that in a small percentage of patients the snoring worsened after the surgery.
Your doctor will go over whether or not you’re a good candidate for this procedure.
Pillar Surgery for Snoring
Pillar surgery for snoring involves placing implants into the soft palate. This will eventually strengthen the soft palate, making it less likely for the tissue to vibrate.
Patients with diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea can find relief with this procedure. However, severe sleep apnea and obesity can put you out of candidacy for this procedure.
Pillar surgery is considered a safe procedure and can be done under local anesthesia in your doctor’s office. You may experience a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, discomfort or swelling following the implantation. It can take a few weeks to a few months to see the full results of this procedure.
A doctor may recommend surgery if snoring has become a chronic problem. Most surgeries for snoring will not only stop the snoring, but address the underlying medical conditions that cause snoring. Surgery may sound frightening, but in many cases it can provide long term relief with a minimal amount of discomfort.
