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Sleep Apnea Surgery

Specific types of sleep apnea surgery include removal of tonsils and adenoids; removal of the tonsils, uvula, and part of the soft palate (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty); laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty, and the insertion of a small tube into the windpipe (tracheostomy). Other possible types of sleep apnea surgery include surgery to rebuild the lower jaw, surgery of the nose, and surgery to treat obesity.

 

An Overview of Sleep Apnea Surgery

Some people with sleep apnea may require surgery to treat their condition. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the cause of the patient's sleep apnea.
 
Common types of sleep apnea surgery include:
 
  • Removal of tonsils and adenoids
  • Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
  • Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty
  • Tracheostomy.
     
Sleep Apnea Surgery: Tonsil and Adenoid Removal
One form of surgery for treating sleep apnea is the removal of the tonsils and adenoids if they are blocking the airway. This sleep apnea surgery is especially helpful for children.
 
Sleep Apnea Surgery: Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgery that removes the tonsils, uvula (the tissue that hangs from the middle of the back of the roof of the mouth), and part of your soft palate (the roof of your mouth in the back of your throat). This surgery is only effective for some people with sleep apnea.
 
Sleep Apnea Surgery: Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)
Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is a surgery that can stop snoring but is probably not helpful in treating sleep apnea. A laser device is used to remove the uvula and part of the soft palate. Because the main symptom of sleep apnea -- snoring -- is stopped, it is important to have a sleep study before having this surgery.
(Sleep Apnea Surgery Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD