Types of Snoring Surgery

Nothing comes between bed partners like snoring. Match.com cites snoring as the number one medical cause of divorce. Snoring is not only dangerous to relationships; it can be dangerous to your health as well. Snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, a serious condition where breathing ceases periodically while you sleep.

In some instances, surgery can end snoring once and for all. Here’s a quick overview of the types of snoring surgery performed.

Pillar systems

When snoring is the result of vibrations in the soft palate, pillar implants can be the answer. This snoring surgery involves the insertion of three small, woven implants in the palate to reduce vibration. The inserts provide additional structural support. In addition, as the palate heals, the tissues around the implants also provide additional support.

This type of snoring surgery can be performed by itself or in conjunction with other surgery. As a stand-alone procedure, it can be performed in the ENT’s office or a surgical center. The procedure does not require the removal of tissue. This means there is minimal discomfort and you can resume your regular activities and diet the same or next day. You won’t be able to see the implants. They will not change your voice or the appearance of your face.

Uvula surgery

Several surgeries can be performed on the uvula. That is the piece of flesh that hangs at the back of the throat.

A uvulectomy is the removal of the uvula. This snoring surgery is performed to correct an oversized uvula. It is a snoring procedure used for patients with snoring problems without the presence of sleep apnea. The uvula is removed by cauterization. It can be performed in the ENT’s office. A liquid diet and liquid pain medication will be part of the recovery for the first few days after the surgery.

A uvulopalatoplasty removes portions of the uvula and tightens the tissue of the palate. It is also performed in the ENT’s office with local anesthesia. A laser is used to remove tissue and widen the airway. There is some pain for the first five days or so after the procedure. This can be controlled with liquid medication. A liquid diet that includes adequate nutrition (such as protein shakes or supplements like Ensure) is important during the recovery process.

Septoplasty

This surgery is rarely performed solely to correct snoring. However, snoring may be corrected because of this surgery. The nasal passages are separated by the bone and cartilage of the septum. If the septum is not straight, breathing can be obstructed. The obstruction causes a number of problems, including snoring. A septoplasty corrects the alignment of the septum and restores free breathing. This can help with snoring. This procedure is done in a hospital or day surgery center under general anesthesia. An overnight stay is not required. The recovery period is seven to 10 days.

Turbinate reduction

As a part of the septoplasty, the turbinates may also be reduced. The turbinates are located outside the sinuses and warm and humidify the air as it is inhaled. Oversized turbinates can prevent you from breathing properly. Cauterization and radiofrequency reduction are two common methods of performing this surgery.