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Tired of snoring disrupting your sleep (and your partner's too)? If lifestyle changes and other treatments haven't worked, surgery might be the answer. In this guide, we'll break down the best surgeries to stop snoring, explain how they work, and what you should know before considering a procedure. Whether it's a minor adjustment or something more involved, we'll help you understand your options so you can get a good night's rest finally!

Important Notice: Please consult a doctor if you have any medical conditions. We do not provide medical advice or make claims, and we are not liable for individual health outcomes.

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Learn More

1. Tonsillectomy 

Tonsillectomy has been considered a surgical option for sleep apnea and snoring, especially in adults with markedly enlarged tonsils. Typically, treatments like CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) are used first, but surgery is often recommended when these treatments prove ineffective or are poorly tolerated. For adults with obstructive sleep apnea and enlarged tonsils, removing the tonsils can significantly improve airflow and reduce the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which measures sleep apnea severity. This procedure has shown favorable outcomes, particularly for individuals with tonsils graded 3+ or 4+ on the Friedman scale, leading to a marked decrease in sleep apnea symptoms.

While tonsillectomy is more common for children dealing with sleep apnea, research has shown that it can be an effective solution for adults with large tonsils and without substantial obesity. Despite these promising results, tonsillectomy is not always the first line of treatment in adults, partly due to the small percentage of people with both sleep apnea and enlarged tonsils. However, for individuals who fit the criteria, tonsillectomy could be a highly effective option.

Key Highlights:

• Tonsillectomy reduces sleep apnea and snoring symptoms by removing large tonsils.
• Proven to decrease the apnea-hypopnea index significantly.
• Alternative for patients who struggle with CPAP or other airway pressure treatments.
• Surgical success reported in 95% of adults in one study.
• Benefits observed more in adults with large tonsils and lower BMI.

Who it’s best for:

• Adults with obstructive sleep apnea and snoring and enlarged tonsils.
• Patients unable to tolerate CPAP or similar treatments.
• Individuals with a BMI below 32 kg/m².
• Those seeking alternatives to long-term airway pressure therapy.

2. Adenoidectomy 

Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat sleep apnea and snoring in children by removing the adenoids. Enlarged adenoids can obstruct airflow, leading to symptoms like loud breathing, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The adenoids, located high in the throat behind the nose, are part of the body’s immune system but can become enlarged due to infections or other factors. This enlargement can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose and contribute to sleep apnea, a condition that may affect a child's concentration, behavior, and academic performance. If enlarged adenoids are determined to be the cause of sleep apnea, adenoidectomy is often recommended as a treatment.

The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery, requiring general anesthesia and lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. It is minimally invasive, and in some cases, tonsils may also be removed during the same procedure. For children diagnosed with sleep apnea due to enlarged adenoids, adenoidectomy can significantly improve airflow and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. Health insurance generally covers adenoidectomy when it's performed to treat sleep apnea.

Key Highlights:

• Treats sleep apnea and snoring caused by enlarged adenoids.
• Minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
• Surgery lasts 30 to 45 minutes.
• May involve simultaneous tonsil removal.
• Typically covered by health insurance.

Who it’s best for:

• Children with sleep apnea and/or snoring caused by enlarged adenoids.
• Children who experience loud breathing or snoring due to adenoid obstruction.
• Those who have had repeated infections of the adenoids.
• Families looking for alternatives to non-surgical treatments for sleep apnea.

3. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure designed to open up the upper airways by removing excess tissue from the throat. It is most commonly used to treat mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or persistent snoring that does not improve with lifestyle changes or less invasive treatments like CPAP or oral devices. During UPPP, doctors remove soft tissue from the back of the throat, including all or part of the uvula, portions of the soft palate, and potentially the tonsils and adenoids if they haven’t already been removed. The goal of the procedure is to reduce obstructions in the airway that contribute to snoring or sleep apnea.

The surgery is generally recommended for patients who have not found relief from other non-surgical treatments and who experience difficulties related to snoring or mild sleep apnea. UPPP is sometimes performed alongside other procedures in cases of moderate to severe sleep apnea. The recovery process involves a hospital stay and a few weeks of healing time, during which patients may experience soreness, difficulty swallowing, and the need for a restricted diet. While some patients experience significant improvements in their sleep apnea symptoms after the surgery, long-term success varies, and the benefits may diminish over time.

Key Highlights:

• Removes soft tissue from the back of the throat to treat snoring and sleep apnea.
• Includes removal of the uvula, parts of the soft palate, and possibly tonsils or adenoids.
• Recommended for patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea or severe snoring.
• Typically performed when CPAP or other non-invasive treatments have failed.
• Involves a recovery period of 2 to 3 weeks, with temporary soreness and dietary restrictions.

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
• Individuals experiencing severe snoring without relief from lifestyle changes.
• People for whom CPAP or other non-surgical treatments are ineffective.
• Adults seeking a surgical option to improve airflow during sleep.

4. Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)

Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is a procedure developed to treat snoring and mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by removing excess tissue in the throat using a laser. First introduced in 1990, LAUP is designed to widen the oropharynx, which helps to prevent airway obstruction during sleep. The process involves the laser vaporization of the soft palate, uvula, and sometimes the tonsils and other redundant tissues. While it is considered a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery, complications like pain, dryness, and a sensation of globus (a feeling of a lump in the throat) have been reported, alongside more severe risks such as velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Over the years, the effectiveness of LAUP has been debated. Although it can reduce snoring in some patients, studies show mixed outcomes, with some individuals experiencing worsening sleep apnea after the procedure. Given the variability in results, LAUP is typically not recommended for moderate or severe cases of OSA. For those who undergo the procedure, recovery involves a period of pain and discomfort, often lasting up to two weeks. Despite its promise of being a relatively straightforward in-office surgery, LAUP comes with notable risks, and long-term benefits remain unclear.

Key Highlights:

• Minimally invasive laser surgery to treat snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea.
• Involves removing or reshaping soft tissue in the throat.
• Reported complications include pain, dryness, globus sensation, and velopharyngeal insufficiency.
• Success rates vary, with some patients experiencing worsening apnea.
• Recovery can take up to two weeks, with short-term discomfort.

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with mild snoring or sleep apnea who prefer a non-invasive surgical option.
• Individuals who have not found relief from lifestyle changes or other non-surgical treatments.
• Those who want an in-office treatment option with minimal hospitalization.
• Patients with realistic expectations regarding potential complications and mixed outcomes.

5. Somnoplasty

Somnoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency ablation to treat conditions such as habitual snoring, chronic nasal obstruction, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Developed by Somnus Medical Technologies, it works by targeting specific areas in the upper airway where tissues obstruct breathing. During the procedure, radiofrequency energy is delivered through an electrode, which causes controlled tissue shrinkage by creating small lesions. Over the course of 6–8 weeks, these lesions are naturally absorbed by the body, reducing tissue volume and stiffening the airway, which helps reduce snoring and improves airflow.

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, lasting around 30–45 minutes with local anesthesia. Depending on the patient's anatomy and the severity of the issue, different parts of the airway, such as the soft palate, tongue base, or nasal turbinates, may be targeted. Common side effects include swelling and discomfort, and in rare cases, patients may experience bleeding or infection. Several follow-up treatments are usually required to achieve optimal results, but the procedure is not widely accepted for treating sleep apnea, and most insurance providers do not cover it.

Key Highlights:

• Uses radiofrequency ablation to shrink obstructive tissue in the airway.
• Performed as a 30–45 minute outpatient procedure with local anesthesia.
• Targets areas like the soft palate, uvula, or nasal turbinates depending on the condition.
• Common side effects include swelling and discomfort.
• Results typically take 6–8 weeks, and follow-up treatments are often needed.

Who it’s best for:

• Individuals with habitual snoring.
• Patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
• People experiencing chronic nasal obstruction.
• Those looking for a minimally invasive alternative to more extensive surgery.

6. Genioglossus Advancement

Genioglossus advancement is a surgical procedure designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea by repositioning the primary muscle of the tongue, the genioglossus, to prevent airway blockage during sleep. The procedure involves moving the anchor point of the tongue forward by securing a small section of the lower jawbone, where the genioglossus muscle attaches, using a titanium screw. This creates more space for the tongue to relax without obstructing the airway, leading to a more stable and open passage for breathing during sleep.

This surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room. After the procedure, patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for monitoring, particularly for bleeding and breathing issues. Post-surgery, some risks include numbness in the lower lip or teeth, swelling, and changes in the chin’s appearance. However, these effects usually improve over time. Genioglossus advancement is often recommended for patients who have not responded well to non-invasive treatments for obstructive sleep apnea.

Key Highlights:

• Repositions the genioglossus muscle to prevent airway obstruction.
• Involves securing a small section of the lower jawbone with a titanium screw.
• Performed under general anesthesia with a hospital stay of 1-2 days.
• Common risks include numbness in teeth or chin and temporary swelling.
• May cause minor changes in chin appearance.

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with obstructive sleep apnea who have not responded to other treatments.
• Individuals with a tongue-based airway obstruction.
• Those looking for surgical options to reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
• People seeking a more permanent solution for breathing issues during sleep.

7. Hyoid Suspension

Hyoid suspension is a surgical procedure aimed at treating obstructive sleep apnea by stabilizing the hyoid bone, a U-shaped bone located in the neck. The hyoid bone is connected to the muscles of the tongue and other soft tissues that help maintain an open airway. When the hyoid bone is free to move, it can lead to airway collapse during sleep, contributing to obstructive sleep apnea. In this procedure, the hyoid bone is pulled forward and secured to the thyroid cartilage (Adam’s apple) with stitches, which helps to keep the airway open and prevent collapse during sleep.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in the operating room, and a small incision is made in a natural crease of the neck to minimize visible scarring. After the surgery, a drain is typically placed to allow any excess fluid to escape, reducing the risk of infection or complications. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for monitoring, and recovery can include temporary discomfort or difficulty swallowing. In some cases, additional procedures may be required if the hyoid suspension alone does not fully address the sleep apnea.

Key Highlights:

• Stabilizes the hyoid bone by securing it to the thyroid cartilage.
• Performed under general anesthesia with a small neck incision.
• Helps prevent airway collapse during sleep by creating more stability in the airway.
• Includes a hospital stay of 1-2 days for post-surgical monitoring.
• Risks include infection, difficulty swallowing, and the possibility of additional procedures.

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with obstructive sleep apnea who have not responded to non-invasive treatments.
• Individuals with airway collapse in the tongue region during sleep.
• Those seeking a surgical option to reduce airway obstruction.
• People looking for long-term solutions for sleep-related breathing problems.

8. Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting nasal obstruction caused by a deviated septum, a condition where the nasal septum (the cartilage and bone separating the nostrils) is crooked, leading to difficulty in breathing. This procedure is often recommended for patients who do not find relief from nasal sprays, decongestants, or other medications. By straightening the nasal septum, septoplasty improves airflow through the nasal passages, reducing nasal congestion and making it easier to breathe, especially during sleep. The procedure is minimally invasive, performed under local anesthesia, and involves no visible incisions or external bruising.

The recovery process following a septoplasty is typically short, with patients experiencing minor nasal congestion due to swelling. Most people can return to work within a few days. At GNO Snoring & Sinus, nasal packing is not used, which can help reduce discomfort during recovery. Patients often notice a significant improvement in nasal airflow and a reduction in symptoms like snoring and sleep apnea, especially when combined with other treatments such as CPAP therapy.

Key Highlights:

• Minimally invasive procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum.
• Performed under local anesthesia with no visible external incisions.
• Designed to improve airflow and reduce nasal obstruction.
• Short recovery time, with most patients returning to work within a few days.
• No use of nasal packing, reducing patient discomfort.

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum.
• Individuals who struggle with nasal congestion and breathing issues despite using medications.
• People experiencing snoring or mild sleep apnea related to nasal blockage.
• Those looking to improve their tolerance of CPAP therapy for sleep apnea.

9. Palatal Implants 

Palatal implants are a minimally invasive procedure used to address snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The procedure involves the insertion of three small polyester filament implants into the soft palate under local anesthesia. By stiffening the soft palate, the implants help prevent airway collapse during sleep, which reduces snoring and the occurrence of obstructive airway events. The treatment is typically performed in an office setting and does not require general anesthesia.

This procedure is designed for individuals who have sufficient soft palate tissue and are seeking a less invasive alternative to traditional surgeries like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). The recovery time is generally quick, and the procedure has been found to have a low complication rate, with the most common issue being partial implant extrusion, which can occur within the first few months following the procedure.

Key Highlights:

• Office-based procedure requiring only local anesthesia
• Insertion of three small polyester filament implants into the soft palate
• Reduces snoring by stiffening the soft palate to prevent airway collapse
• Quick recovery with minimal side effects
• Low complication rate, with partial extrusion as the most common issue

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• Individuals seeking a minimally invasive treatment for snoring
• People with sufficient soft palate tissue for implant placement
• Those looking for a quick recovery with minimal downtime

10. Maxillomandibular Advancement Surgery

Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery is a procedure used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by repositioning the upper and lower jaw to alleviate airway obstruction. This surgical technique not only relieves obstruction but also increases tension in the surrounding pharyngeal soft tissues, improving airflow. Unlike other surgical options for OSA, MMA impacts multiple levels of the airway, from the nasal cavity to the hypopharynx, making it a comprehensive solution for managing OSA. Most patients, including those with severe OSA, experience significant improvements, and more than half of them achieve full resolution of their condition.

The surgery involves pre-surgical planning with 3-D imaging to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Post-surgery, patients generally stay in the hospital for 2-3 nights, with pain typically managed using non-opioid medications. MMA does not require jaw wiring, and patients can return to a soft diet soon after the procedure. Recovery usually takes around six weeks, with most patients able to return to normal activities within three weeks.

Key Highlights:

• Repositions upper and lower jaw to relieve airway obstruction
• Affects all levels of the airway from nasal cavity to hypopharynx
• Uses pre-surgical 3-D imaging for accuracy and planning
• No jaw wiring required post-surgery
• Typically involves a hospital stay of 2-3 nights with non-opioid pain management

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and/or snoring
• Individuals with craniofacial structural abnormalities like mandibular retrognathia
• Patients seeking a comprehensive surgical solution after other procedures, like UPPP, have failed
• Those who prefer to avoid long-term use of CPAP therapy or other non-surgical treatments

11. Nasal Surgery

Nasal surgery is a treatment option aimed at improving nasal airflow and addressing snoring issues that stem from nasal obstruction. Common procedures include the correction of a deviated septum (septoplasty), reduction of enlarged turbinates (turbinoplasty), and removal of nasal polyps to improve sinus drainage (functional endoscopic sinus surgery). These surgeries target specific areas within the nasal passages to help improve airflow, reduce mouth breathing, and potentially alleviate snoring symptoms.

While nasal surgery alone is not a cure for obstructive sleep apnea in most cases, it can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms like daytime sleepiness. The effectiveness of nasal surgery in treating snoring often depends on factors such as the degree of nasal obstruction, the extent of snoring, and whether the patient transitions from mouth breathing to nose breathing post-surgery. For those with moderate to severe sleep apnea, nasal surgery is typically part of a broader treatment plan, sometimes combined with other surgical procedures.

Key Highlights:

• Targets nasal obstruction to improve airflow
• Involves procedures like septoplasty, turbinoplasty, and functional endoscopic sinus surgery
• Aims to reduce mouth breathing and improve sleep quality
• Can be used in combination with other treatments for comprehensive care

Who it’s best for:

• Individuals with nasal obstruction causing snoring or mild sleep apnea
• Patients with a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates
• Those who experience snoring primarily when mouth breathing
• Individuals seeking to improve nasal breathing as part of a broader sleep apnea treatment plan

12. Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS) is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that involves implanting a device to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve controls the muscles in the tongue, helping to prevent airway blockage during sleep. The device is implanted under the skin and sends gentle pulses to the nerve in rhythm with the patient’s breathing, which moves the tongue forward and helps keep the airway open. HGNS is considered an alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, especially for patients who find CPAP uncomfortable or ineffective.

The implant is designed for patients with moderate to severe OSA and is generally used when other treatments, such as CPAP, have not been successful. The device is controlled by a remote that the patient uses to turn it on before sleep and adjust settings as needed. Clinical studies show that HGNS reduces sleep apnea episodes and improves overall sleep quality without altering or removing tissue from the airway, as some surgical options do.

Key Highlights:

• Treats obstructive sleep apnea by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve
• Implant sends pulses in sync with the patient’s breathing
• Helps move the tongue forward to prevent airway obstruction
• Minimally invasive compared to other surgical treatments

Who it’s best for:

• Patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and snoring
• Individuals who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy
• Those who are non-responsive to other airway surgeries
• People with a body mass index (BMI) under 32, as recommended

Common Risks and Complications

When considering surgery to stop snoring, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. Common complications across various procedures can include swelling, infection, and bleeding, as with most surgical interventions. In some cases, patients might experience temporary pain or discomfort in the areas where the surgery was performed, such as the throat, nasal passages, or jaw. Other risks include numbness or changes in sensation, particularly in surgeries that involve nerve manipulation like maxillomandibular advancement or hypoglossal nerve stimulation.

There are also procedure-specific risks to be mindful of. For example, soft palate implants may cause partial extrusion of the implant over time, while nasal surgeries might not fully resolve snoring or sleep apnea in all cases. It’s also possible that additional surgeries may be required if the initial treatment doesn’t achieve the desired results. As with any medical procedure, discussing these risks with your doctor and understanding what to expect can help you make a more informed decision about your treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best surgery to stop snoring, it’s all about understanding what’s causing the problem and choosing a solution that fits your specific needs. Whether it’s a minimally invasive procedure like soft palate implants or something more involved like maxillomandibular advancement, the goal is to clear your airway and improve your sleep. For some, nasal surgery can do the trick, especially if snoring is linked to nasal obstruction, while others might need a combination of surgeries to tackle different areas of the airway.

No one solution works for everyone, and that's why it’s important to consult with a specialist who can evaluate your situation and recommend the right treatment. From palatal procedures to hypoglossal nerve stimulation, there are multiple options available, each with its own set of benefits. The key is finding a treatment that not only helps you stop snoring but also improves your overall quality of sleep and health.