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Snoring Surgery | Can sleep surgery improve my snoring?

 

Dr. José Barrera, MD is the only fellowship trained Sleep Surgeon in Texas. He is a Fellowship Director in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Sleep Surgery with the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Barrera answers the question, “Can surgery improve my snoring and sleep apnea?”

Snoring Surgery can quiet loud snoring. Snoring can improve with sleep surgery and so can obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea surgery can also be considered in cases of CPAP intolerance. Dr. Jose Barrera, MD shares his expertise with Snoring Surgery and Sleep Apnea Surgery at Sleep Apnea Surgery.

Nose Surgery for Snoring

Snoring can be improved by addressing nasal obstruction. Nasal obstruction can be due to a deviated septum, inferior turbinate hypertrophy, or nasal valve stenosis.  Functional rhinoplasty may have to be done to improve the nasal valve.

Palate Surgery for Snoring

A palate lift operation or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) may also be performed to improve the airflow through the back of the throat. Radiofrequency treatment of the soft palate can also improve snoring. These procedures can be performed in the clinic setting through a minimally invasive approach. Snoring Surgery addressing a long uvula or excessive redundant palate can 60 – 80% successful in decreasing snoring noise.

Tongue Surgery for Snoring

Rarely, snoring is caused by obstruction at the back of the tongue. Surgery to address tongue base obstruction may also be considered.

Palate and Tongue Base Obstruction comprise the main obstructive sights in obstructive sleep apnea. Other causes of obstructive sleep apnea include the tonsils, lateral pharyngeal walls, epiglottis, and lingual tonsils. Snoring surgery to address tongue base obstruction may be considered as part of an overall plan.

Snoring in Children

In children, the adenoid and tonsil tissue largely contribute to obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. Snoring in children may be an indication of airway obstruction. Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy may be indicated in the child with obstructive sleep apnea.

Clinic Evaluation for Snoring

All evaluations are performed in the clinic. A small scope may need to be placed to look for sites of airway obstruction. A sleep study or polysomnogram may need to be ordered to rule out obstructive sleep apnea.