.png){kind=small}
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring by removing excess tissue from the throat. This process widens the airway, allowing air to flow more freely during sleep, reducing the frequency and severity of breathing disruptions. UPPP primarily targets soft tissue structures, such as the uvula, soft palate, and throat, that may be obstructing the airway.
​
Sleep apnea is a serious condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often due to airway blockages. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of health complications like heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. UPPP is one of the surgical options available to help manage sleep apnea symptoms and improve overall quality of sleep.
Who is a Candidate for UPPP?
UPPP is generally recommended for individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or those who experience significant snoring due to excess tissue in the throat. Candidates for this procedure typically have tried conservative treatments, such as lifestyle changes (e.g., weight loss, smoking cessation) or the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, without sufficient improvement.
UPPP is particularly effective for patients with:
-
Enlarged uvula or soft palate
-
Excess tissue in the throat or nasal passages
-
Tonsillar hypertrophy (enlarged tonsils)
-
Sleep apnea or snoring that has not responded to non-surgical treatments
If you experience breathing difficulties during sleep, frequent waking, daytime fatigue, or loud snoring, UPPP may be an effective solution after a thorough evaluation by your ENT specialist.
How is UPPP Surgery Performed?
UPPP surgery involves the removal of excess tissue in the throat, uvula, and soft palate. The procedure may also include the removal of tonsils and adenoids if they are still intact. In some cases, a laser-assisted technique is used for a more precise and less invasive approach, minimizing tissue damage and reducing recovery time.
​
The goal of UPPP is to:
-
Widen the airway for better airflow
-
Enhance the movement of the soft palate
-
Prevent airway collapse during sleep
Recovery from UPPP Surgery
The recovery period following UPPP surgery typically lasts about three weeks. During this time, it is common for patients to experience some difficulty swallowing, mild discomfort, and soreness in the throat. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery, and pain management options will be discussed to help alleviate discomfort.
​
Full recovery can take several weeks, and follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and assess the effectiveness of the surgery in reducing sleep apnea symptoms. It’s important to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period.
​Schedule a Consultation with Dallas ENT Group
Our team of experienced specialists is dedicated to helping patients achieve better sleep and improved quality of life. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea or chronic snoring, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?
