03Snoring can be treated and maybe even cured in a number of ways. One drastic solution to this problem is snoring surgery. This is usually only carried out where other methods have failed due to the risks involved.
Just as there are many treatments for snoring, there are many options for surgical treatment. They vary in how invasive they are, how much they cost, and the difficulty of recovery.
For simplicity, I have displayed costs in US Dollars.
Somnoplasty Snoring Surgery
This procedure is often chosen because it isn’t as invasive as some other snoring surgery treatments. It is carried out as an outpatient procedure and involves thermal energy being used to reduce and stiffen the soft tissue that can obstruct or vibrate in your upper airway.
The average cost is $2,000.
Scientists believe that it is these vibrations that cause us to snore. It follows that if you reduce those vibrations then snoring will reduce in turn. Somnoplasty isn’t particularly painful but is perhaps not as effective as other snoring surgery because it tends to only minimize the severity and frequency of snoring rather than act as a cure.
UPPP to Cure Snoring
If you have sleep apnea or other health risks that are more serious than a simple case of snoring, then you may be put forward for a treatment called Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, more commonly known as UPPP.
This surgery involves a surgeon removing obstructions and optionally tonsils and adenoids in order to open up the airway. It is worth noting that this is a major surgery carried out under general anesthetic (which has its own risks) and is not to be taken lightly.
Average cost is $2,200.
When polled, around 60% of people who had this surgery said they would go through it again, meaning 40% regretted their decision. This might be down to the painful three-week recovery period where swallowing is very uncomfortable
In addition to the risks, the procedure is not very successful. In fact, many people who have undergone this surgery end up snoring again afterward. You would think such an invasive and painful surgery would have a good payoff in the end.
Nasal Reconstructive Surgery for Snoring
More invasive yet is a total reconstruction of the bones and soft tissue in your nasal cavity, again carried out under general anesthetic. The aim is to improve your air intake and as a result, snoring should in theory be cured.
Average cost varies case by case but expect to pay upwards of $2,500.
The recovery time is long, and it can be difficult to breathe during this time. The risks are high, and the risks of using anesthetics include everything from severe allergic reactions to death.
Disadvantages of Snoring Surgery
Snoring surgery, also known as surgical interventions for sleep-disordered breathing, can be effective for some individuals. However, like any medical procedure, it comes with potential disadvantages and risks. Here are some of the primary disadvantages of snoring surgery:
1. Pain and Discomfort
- Postoperative Pain: Patients may experience significant pain and discomfort after the surgery, especially in the throat and surrounding areas. This pain can last for several days to weeks, depending on the type of surgery.
- Swelling and Soreness: Swelling and soreness in the throat, mouth, and nasal passages are common after surgery.
2. Risk of Complications
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding: There can be a risk of excessive bleeding during or after the surgery.
- Anesthesia Risks: General anesthesia carries its own set of risks, including adverse reactions and complications.
3. Recovery Time
- Extended Recovery Period: Recovery from snoring surgery can be lengthy, often requiring time off from work and other activities. This can be inconvenient and impact daily life.
- Dietary Restrictions: Patients may need to follow a liquid or soft food diet during the initial recovery period, which can be uncomfortable and restrictive.
4. Variable Success Rates
- Uncertain Outcomes: The effectiveness of snoring surgery can vary. While some patients experience significant improvement, others may see little to no change in their snoring.
- Possible Recurrence: Even if the surgery is initially successful, there is a possibility that snoring may return over time.
5. Cost
- High Expenses: Snoring surgery can be expensive, especially if it is not covered by insurance. Costs can include the procedure itself, anesthesia, hospital fees, and postoperative care.
6. Permanent Changes
- Irreversibility: Some surgical procedures involve permanent changes to the anatomy of the throat, mouth, or nasal passages. If the surgery is not successful, these changes cannot be easily undone.
- Voice Changes: Certain surgeries, particularly those involving the throat, can potentially affect the patient’s voice.
7. Potential Side Effects
- Dry Throat and Mouth: Patients may experience chronic dry throat or mouth after certain types of snoring surgery.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may have trouble swallowing or feel a foreign body sensation in the throat following surgery.
8. Not Addressing Root Causes
- Lifestyle Factors: Surgery may not address underlying issues such as obesity, alcohol consumption, or poor sleep hygiene, which can continue to contribute to snoring.
Non-Surgical Methods to Stop Snoring
Why take the risks and costs of surgical options on board when you haven’t discovered a nonsurgical solution that really works to stop snoring for good?
I looked at the options available and came to the conclusion that the AirSnore device is the best product for snoring cessation because of the high success rate, ease of use, and value for money
Click here now for my full AirSnore review
Last Updated on August 3, 2024 by Aileen
