Sleeping is an essential function for health and happiness, but an estimated 70 million Americans experience sleep disorders. One common disorder is sleep apnea, which occurs when the muscles near your mouth and throat collapse, blocking your upper airway. This causes you to stop breathing repeatedly throughout the night, leading to a drop in your blood oxygen levels.
There are a variety of treatments for sleep apnea and snoring, including a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. If these options do not work for you, surgery may relieve your symptoms. At Collin County ENT, we’ll help determine if this is a good next step for you, along with which surgery would best serve your needs.
What Are Common Surgeries for Snoring and Sleep Apnea?
One surgical option for these conditions is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), which we offer at our clinic.
What Is a UPPP?
A Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) removes excess tissue in the throat in order to widen the airway and make it easier to breathe.
How Is a UPPP Performed?
Before the procedure begins, you’ll be given general anesthesia. The provider will begin by removing the tonsils and adenoids (if applicable), excise the uvula and trim or remove the soft palate. The cuts are sutured together with stitches.
A brief hospital stay may be recommended so you can be closely monitored immediately after surgery. Your provider will discuss this with you beforehand, along with what to expect in terms of aftercare once you’re home.
Complications from this procedure may include:
- Sore throat
- Swelling
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing
- Speech problems
- Narrowing of the airway related to scar tissue
Your doctor can discuss the risks and help you decide whether UPPP is right for you.
Our Office Is Here for You
Deciding to have surgery can be a big decision, and at Collin County ENT we’re here to take some of that weight off your shoulders. We’ll guide you through the process, starting at the initial consultation all the way through aftercare. You’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep knowing our team is in your corner.