Often, when a patient struggles with chronic snoring or has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), doctors are quick to prescribe CPAP therapy. Certainly, CPAP is an effective solution in many cases. But what if you cannot tolerate your machine or are not experiencing the results you expected? You might be a candidate for a surgery called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). What is UPPP, and what benefits does it offer? This blog post explains.
What Is UPPP?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when tissues in the throat block the free flow of air, causing interruptions in breathing during sleep. In severe OSA cases, these episodes can occur hundreds of times in a single night.
UPPP is a surgical procedure designed to address those harmful blockages. During the operation, a surgeon removes or reshapes tissue from the throat and palate, including the uvula and part of the soft palate. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove excess tissue from the sides of the throat or the tonsils and adenoids if you still have them. The goal of UPPP is to create a wider and more stable airway, which allows air to flow more freely while you sleep.
You will receive anesthesia so you remain comfortable and unaware during the procedure. UPPP is usually performed in a hospital or specialized surgical center, and you may go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
When Is UPPP Recommended?
UPPP is not a first-line treatment for sleep apnea, but it can be effective for certain individuals. Your doctor may recommend UPPP if you have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and have not found relief with non-surgical therapies such as CPAP or custom oral appliances. UPPP may also be considered if you experience airway blockages that occur primarily at the level of the soft palate and uvula, rather than deeper in the throat.
You should undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if UPPP is the most suitable solution for your unique anatomy and health profile.
Benefits of UPPP
UPPP offers several potential benefits for individuals who struggle with sleep apnea or chronic snoring:
- By removing or modifying excess tissue, UPPP can significantly reduce or eliminate snoring, which often improves your sleep and that of your partner.
- A wider airway means that you are less likely to experience repeated breathing interruptions during the night, allowing you to enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep.
- Many patients notice improvements in daytime alertness, mood, and energy levels following UPPP.
- In some cases, UPPP can lower or even eliminate the need for CPAP therapy or other devices.
- You might also see benefits such as reduced risk of complications from untreated sleep apnea, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
As with any surgery, results can vary, and you should discuss expected outcomes with your healthcare provider.
Are you getting enough high-quality sleep? If not, you may need to find out if you are a candidate for UPPP.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Gary Wiesman is a double board-certified physician who specializes in procedures of the head and neck area. He has already helped many patients to find relief from sleep apnea via UPPP. If you struggle with OSA or simply have questions about how our team may be able to help you, we are ready to talk! Contact our Chicago office at 312-796-5550.
