UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) – UPPP removes tissue from back of mouth or top of the throat. UPPP is more commonly used to treat snoring and may not cure sleep apnea if excess tissue is found further down the airway path. This sleep apnea treatment can now be performed with a laser.
Maxillomandibular Advancement – This dental surgery moves the jaw forward from the face bone, enlarging the space behind the tongue and soft palate to limit obstruction of the throat. Oral surgery may be combined with orthodontics to complete your treatment for sleep apnea.
Tracheostomy – A tracheostomy (sometimes referred to as a tracheotomy) is only used for severe sleep apnea. During the procedure, a metal or plastic tube is inserted in the throat through an incision in the neck. The protruding tube is covered during the day, but opened at night so you can breathe.
Other Types of Surgery – Nasal surgery removes polyps or corrects a deviated septum in the nasal cavity, helping you breathe better. Your doctor may also choose to remove your tonsils or adenoids, which can be combined with the UPPP procedure for sleep apnea treatment.
