Did you know that over 30 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea? Sometimes, this disorder will cause the individual to have a lot of issues with waking up and functioning throughout the day.
One of the most common issues is snoring. If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea or persistent snoring, you may benefit from snoring surgery. Please keep reading to learn more about how it is usually done and what to expect.
What to Expect During Surgery?
Snoring surgery, also known as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), reduces the severity of snoring. The surgery for snoring involves eliminating excess tissues from the upper part of the throat to create more space for breathing. It reduces the vibrating sound that occurs during snoring. It is usually done under general anesthesia so that the patient will be entirely unconscious during the procedure.
During the surgery, a small incision is usually made inside the mouth near the base of the tongue. A specialized instrument removes part of the soft palate, upper throat, and pharyngeal tissue. After this, the throat is normally stitched up, and the procedure is generally completed in one to two hours.
UPPP can be combined with other procedures to reduce snoring even further. In general, it is effective at reducing snoring and improving sleep quality. However, to find treatment here, it is essential to talk to a doctor and ask for more details about the procedure, the risks involved, and the expected recovery time.
Risks, Side Effects, and Recovery Time
The risks, side effects, and recovery times of nasal surgery for snoring vary greatly depending on the procedure chosen. Most snoring surgeries, such as laser-assisted valvuloplasty or radiofrequency ablation, involve removing the excess tissue from the throat or soft palate area to stop or lessen snoring. Potential risks for snoring surgeries include bleeding, infection, and damage to the vocal cords.
Side effects from snoring surgery may include a sore throat, minor pain, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Depending on the procedure, recovery times can range from several days to weeks. Although results may not be permanent, it is essential to consult a doctor first.
Cost and Insurance Considerations
The cost of snoring surgery depends on several factors. It may include the type of procedure being done and the level of experience of the physician performing the surgery.
Insurance may cover the snoring surgery cost if the procedure is medically necessary. However, it would help if you met specific criteria to qualify. It’s essential to understand the cost and insurance coverage beforehand.
Patients are responsible for any out-of-pocket costs their insurance does not cover. Generally, snoring surgeries are usually considered elective procedures. Not all providers will cover them. It’s best to contact your insurance provider to find out what is usually covered under your plan.
Speak With Your Doctor About Snoring Surgery Today
Snoring surgery is a permanent solution. It may help reduce severe snoring, but it is not for everyone. It is essential to understand that it does carry certain risks and that alternative treatments may be just as successful.
Speak with your doctor if you are interested in exploring this option. Together, you can determine the best approach for your needs.
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