Sleep Apnea Surgery

Indications for Sleep Apnea Surgery

Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea: When CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is ineffective or poorly tolerated.

Anatomical Obstructions: When physical obstructions in the airway, such as enlarged tonsils or a deviated septum, are contributing to sleep apnea.

Failed Non-Surgical Treatments: When lifestyle changes, weight loss, or oral appliances have not adequately managed symptoms.

Sleep apnea surgery can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly when non-surgical treatments have not been effective. The success of the surgery varies depending on the type of procedure, the severity of the condition, and the patient’s overall health. With proper postoperative care and follow-up, many patients experience substantial relief from sleep apnea symptoms and improved sleep quality.

The Procedure

Preparation: Sleep apnea surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Preoperative evaluations, including sleep studies and imaging, help determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Surgical Process: The specific procedure varies depending on the type of surgery. For example, UPPP involves removing excess tissue from the throat, while MMA involves repositioning the jaw. The surgery generally lasts from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity.

Techniques: Some surgeries are minimally invasive, using endoscopic techniques or robotic assistance, while others may require more invasive approaches.



Sleep apnea surgery is performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) when non-surgical treatments, like CPAP therapy, are ineffective or intolerable. Various procedures are available depending on the specific issues causing the airway obstruction, including Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), which removes excess throat tissue, and Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA), which repositions the jaw to enlarge the airway. Other options include Genioglossus Advancement and Hyoid Suspension, which address the positioning of the tongue and hyoid bone, respectively. The surgery typically requires general anesthesia, and postoperative care involves managing pain, monitoring recovery, and potentially undergoing follow-up sleep studies. While risks include bleeding, infection, and voice changes, many patients find significant relief from symptoms and improved sleep quality with proper care and follow-up.