If you’ve tried everything to stop snoring and not had success, there may be a tiny culprit responsible for your and your partner’s nighttime woes in the back of your throat. Your uvula, a small flap of tissue responsible for keeping food from going up your nose, could be a disservice while you sleep. Sometimes, the uvula can contribute to snoring, a predominant symptom of obstructive sleep apnea.
But, a uvulopalatopharyngoplasty may help. Here are a few points on the procedure and how it may help you sleep more soundly.
What is a Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
You’re not alone if you’ve raised eyebrows after hearing the term Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. It’s a word that not many people know how to say, and even fewer know how it can benefit them.
A uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, or UPPP, is a procedure that helps open the airway by removing excess tissue in your throat.
Sometimes it’s used as a standalone method of treating obstructive sleep apnea, or the procedure can be combined with other techniques.
How Does UPPP Work?
A UPPP is a procedure aimed at treating chronic snoring. Your ENT performs the surgery by removing excess tissue in your throat, which may include your tonsils and uvula if they are the reason behind your snoring.
The procedure generally takes around an hour to complete, and you can go home the same day.
Am I a Candidate for UPPP?
Your ENT specialist determines if a UPPP surgery suits your situation. UPPP best suits patients who suffer from mild obstructive sleep apnea. When conservative methods are ineffective, a UPPP surgery can serve as a last resort to address breathing complications from UPPP.
UPPP is highly effective in reducing snoring and can help significantly improve sleep quality. But results can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Also, your ENT Specialist can assess you for the risks associated with UPPP. Although the UPP is generally safe, all procedures involve some risks. In the case of a UPPP, there is a slight chance for
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pain
- Changes in taste
- Infection
- Speech issues
If you’re looking for a long-term solution for your snoring, Dr. Volpi can help. Schedule a consultation today by calling 212-873-6036.