The Surgical Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Plastic surgery of tongue

In many cases, sleep apnea is caused either due to a broader base of the tongue or due to its abnormal position. In such cases, the specialist may carry out plastic surgery on the base of the tongue to rectify the problem. This operation is generally done under the general anesthesia and would require a one-night stay at the hospital.

Lower jaw advancement

A small and narrow lower jaw is one of the most common causes of sleep apnea. Thus, this surgery involves widening of the whole of the upper airway by changing the skeletal framework. It is a painful surgery, which means patients may stay at the hospital for several days afterwards. Considering the complexity of operation, very few specialized centers may offer this procedure.