What is snoring surgery (uvulopalatoplasty)?

Uvulopalatoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure to reduce or eliminate snoring. It is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves removing tissue from the soft palate and uvula. The surgery can also be performed using laser or radiofrequency energy to shrink or ablate the tissue.

How is uvulopalatoplasty performed?

The surgeon will make an incision in the back of the throat and then use a variety of instruments to remove tissue from the soft palate and uvula. The incision will be closed with sutures or dissolved stitches.

Common practice/results of this service

UPPP is a very common surgery and is generally safe and effective. Most people who have UPPP experience significant improvement in their snoring. However, the surgery does not always eliminate snoring completely, and some people may need to have repeat surgery.

Why do people need snoring surgery (uvulopalatoplasty)?

People may need snoring surgery if their snoring is causing significant problems, such as:

• Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. It can cause daytime fatigue, headaches, and other health problems.
• Snoring that is disruptive to others: Snoring can be very loud and disruptive to sleep partners.
• Snoring that is causing embarrassment or social isolation: Snoring can be embarrassing and can lead to social isolation.

Who is suitable for snoring surgery (uvulopalatoplasty)?

UPPP is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

UPPP is commonly performed on adults of all ages. However, it is not typically performed on children.

Benefits of snoring surgery (uvulopalatoplasty)

The benefits of UPPP include:

• Reduced snoring or elimination of snoring
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced risk of sleep apnoea
• Improved daytime energy levels
• Improved quality of life

How snoring surgery (uvulopalatoplasty) can help with treatment alongside lifestyle changes etc.

UPPP can help with the treatment of snoring and sleep apnoea. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and sleeping on one's side, can also help to reduce snoring. However, these lifestyle changes may not be enough to resolve snoring or sleep apnoea in some people. UPPP can be a valuable treatment option for people who have tried lifestyle changes but have not experienced relief from their symptoms.

The Procedure

UPPP is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgery takes about 1-2 hours.

Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery

Before UPPP, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These instructions may include:

• Fasting for a certain number of hours before surgery
• Taking certain medications
• Avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen

Post-surgery – what to do after surgery

After UPPP, you will need to follow Mr Khatwa's instructions for post-operative care. These instructions may include:

• Taking pain relievers
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Eating soft foods
• Avoiding strenuous activity
• Keeping your head elevated

Most people are able to go home the same day as their UPPP surgery. However, some people may need to stay in the hospital overnight.

Recovery from UPPP typically takes about 1-2 weeks. Most people experience a sore throat for a few days after surgery. However, the pain should improve gradually.

If you are considering UPPP, be sure to book an appointment to talk to Mr Khatwa about the risks and benefits of the procedure. UPPP is a very effective surgery for reducing or eliminating snoring, but it is important to understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.

UPPP is not without its risks. Some of the potential risks of UPPP include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty speaking
• Changes in voice
• Dry mouth
• Numbness of the throat

It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of UPPP carefully before making a decision about whether or not to have the surgery.