Let's cut to the chase: if your snoring habit is becoming a bigger problem for you or your partner, it may be time to consider surgery to end the problem once and for all. When you've tried other stop-snoring remedies without success, you may want to speak with your doctor about snoring surgery.
There are several different surgical methods that can control or eliminate snoring. The most common procedures are outlined as follows:
* UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty): This operation expands the airway and should put an end to snoring. It's an expensive procedure, however, and may require follow-up surgery if the blockage returns. There are also concerns that this type of surgery may pose an elevated risk of hemorrhaging, post-surgical infection and swallowing problems. It may also cause speech defects.
* LAUP (Laser Assisted Uvuloplasty): Your surgeon will use a laser to take out the uvula, and to remove any tissues that may be obstructing the airway. The tonsils are left intact. This surgery does not have a high success rate, and is not recommended for those using their voices to make a living. Aside from vocal changes, patients undergoing this procedure may also experience dry mouth and ear pain. This operation may also inadvertently hide other underlying problems.
* CAPSO (Cautery-assisted Palatal Stiffening Operation): As the name suggests, this procedure uses a device to burn the palate, making it stiffer and more unlikely to vibrate. Unfortunately, just like the others, this surgery has a host of potential problems with it. Because this particular surgical procedure is still in the experimental stage, doctors have not been able to predict the chances for a successful outcome. It is quite expensive and there is a great deal of pain during recovery.
* Tracheostomy: This surgery, in which the doctor creates an opening in the trachea, presents several drawbacks. This tissue can become very irritated, scarring can occur, and follow-up surgery may be required.
There seem to be more questions than answers regarding snoring surgery than answers. While all of these procedures are intended to increase airflow, they're not all successful, simply because not every person snores for the same reasons. For this reason, it's important to exhaust other treatment options before resorting to snoring surgery.
Remember, any type of surgery is a big step that poses certain risks. Snoring surgery works for many people, but not everyone. Even when it is successful, the healing time and side effects may outweigh the benefits.
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