Sleep Apnea Surgery – Types, Procedures & Success Rate

The type of surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) depends on the location and severity of airway obstruction. Procedures aim to enlarge or stabilize the airway by modifying structures of the soft palate, tongue base, jaw, or nasal passages. Below are the major types of sleep apnea surgeries:

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
• Genioglossus Advancement (GA)
• Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)
• Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (Inspire Therapy)
• Nasal Surgery (Septoplasty / Turbinate Reduction)
• Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)
• Tongue Base Reduction (Radiofrequency Ablation or Midline Glossectomy)
• Hyoid Suspension (Hyoid Myotomy and Suspension)
• Multi-Level Surgery (Combination Approach)
  

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

It is one of the most common surgical procedures applied to get relief from sleep disorders. It involves removing excess tissue from the soft palate, uvula, and sometimes the tonsils to widen the airway and prevent collapse during sleep. UPPP surgery for sleep apnea is usually performed under general anesthesia and may be combined with tonsillectomy. UPPP is suitable form of palate surgery for sleep apnea patients with soft palate obstruction who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

Genioglossus Advancement (GA)

This obstructive sleep apnea surgery repositions the genioglossus muscle (the main tongue muscle) forward by cutting and advancing a small section of the lower jawbone where the muscle attaches. Moving the tongue base forward increases space in the hypopharyngeal airway, reducing obstruction during sleep. GA is often combined with other surgeries like UPPP or hyoid suspension for improved outcomes.

Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)

Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a more extensive skeletal surgery that repositions both the upper (maxilla) and lower (mandible) jaws forward. This movement enlarges the entire airway, from the nasal passages to the base of the tongue. It is highly effective sleep apnea jaw surgery for patients with moderate to severe OSA or those with jaw structure abnormalities. Although recovery time is longer, MMA has one of the highest success rates in surgical sleep apnea management.

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Implant (Inspire Therapy/ Inspire Sleep Apnea Surgery)

It is a modern and minimally invasive sleep apnea surgery implant procedure that uses an implantable neurostimulator to activate the hypoglossal nerve during sleep. The stimulation gently moves the tongue forward, keeping the airway open. This procedure is advised for people with moderate to severe OSA who are unable to tolerate CPAP but do not have complete airway collapse.

Nasal Surgery (Septoplasty / Turbinate Reduction)

When nasal blockage contributes to OSA, procedures like septoplasty (to straighten a deviated septum) or turbinate reduction (to reduce nasal tissue swelling) can improve airflow. These surgeries are often performed categorized as nose surgery for sleep apnea in combination with other sleep apnea procedures to enhance breathing efficiency and CPAP compliance.

Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)

Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is a minimally invasive sleep apnea laser surgery used to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is a laser surgery for snoring and sleep apnea caused by partial obstruction of the upper airway at the level of the soft palate and uvula. It aims to remove or reshape excess tissue from the soft palate and uvula using a carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser, thereby enlarging the airway and reducing tissue vibration during sleep.

Tongue Base Reduction (Radiofrequency Ablation or Midline Glossectomy)

This obstructive sleep apnea tongue base surgery reduces the volume of the tongue base using radiofrequency energy, laser energy, or surgical excision to prevent tongue collapse during sleep. It is minimally invasive and ideal for patients with tongue-based obstruction confirmed through sleep endoscopy. Tongue surgery for sleep apnea is usually performed in combination with palatal interventions, approach commonly termed “multiple level surgery”, as it handles all locations, the palate, lateral pharyngeal walls, tonsils and tongue.

Hyoid Suspension (Hyoid Myotomy and Suspension)

Hyoid suspension involves repositioning the hyoid bone (U-shaped bone in the neck located above the thyroid cartilage known as Adam’s apple)-a structure below the tongue-to pull the airway forward and stabilize it. It is often combined with tongue base or palate surgery to improve multi-level obstruction.

Multi-Level Surgery (Combination Approach)

Because OSA often involves obstruction at multiple levels, a combination of procedures such as UPPP, Genioglossus Advancement and Hyoid Suspension may be combined and recommended. This comprehensive approach targets all potential sites of airway collapse and improves overall surgical success. Barbed pharyngoplasty in multilevel obstructive sleep apnea surgeries has proven to be an easy to learn, safe, quick, and effective new palatopharyngeal procedure, that can be used in a single level surgery or as a part of multilevel procedures.

Other Procedures for sleep apnea surgery

Tracheostomy/Tracheotomy

It is a surgical procedure that creates a direct airway through an incision in the front of the neck into the trachea (windpipe). It is considered the most definitive and effective surgical treatment for severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially in cases where other surgical or non-surgical interventions fail to relieve airway obstruction, tracheostomy surgery sleep apnea plays an important role.

Tongue Base Coblation

This is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat obstructive sleep apnea caused by tongue base hypertrophy or collapse. Coblation surgery in obstructive sleep apnea uses controlled radiofrequency energy at low temperatures to remove or shrink excess tissue at the tongue base without significant damage to surrounding structures.

Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS)

It is an advanced, minimally invasive surgical approach for obstructive sleep apnea that utilizes robotic-assisted technology to precisely remove obstructive tissues from the soft palate, tongue base, or epiglottis. It helps to provide better visualization, precision, and control, making it particularly effective in cases of tongue base or multilevel airway obstruction.

Bariatric Surgery for Sleep Apnea

It plays vital role in managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among patients with morbid obesity, where excess fat deposits around the neck and upper airway contribute to airway collapse. Weight reduction achieved through bariatric surgery significantly decreases the severity of sleep apnea and weight loss surgery improves overall metabolic health.

Sleep Apnea Surgery Indications

Surgical intervention for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is usually recommended when non-surgical treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or oral appliance therapy, fail to provide sufficient symptom relief, or when anatomical abnormalities obstruct airflow. Below are the common indications for sleep apnea surgery:

• Failure or Intolerance of CPAP Therapy
• Anatomical Upper Airway Obstruction
• Multilevel Airway Collapse Identified on Sleep Endoscopy
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Craniofacial Abnormalities
• Morbid Obesity with Refractory Sleep
• Severe OSA with Life-Threatening Symptoms
• Pediatric OSA with Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy
• Refractory Snoring with Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Failure or Intolerance of CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains the first-line therapy for most patients with moderate to severe OSA. However, 40–60% of patients fail or are intolerant to CPAP due to discomfort, mask leak, claustrophobia (fear or anxiety from the mask) or nasal blockage. For such patients, surgery offers an alternative means to relieve upper airway obstruction and restore restful sleep.

Anatomical Upper Airway Obstruction

Sleep apnea surgery is indicated when structural abnormalities in the airway contribute to obstruction during sleep. This includes enlarged tonsils, elongated uvula, soft palate redundancy, deviated nasal septum, macroglossia (enlarged tongue), or retrognathia (receding jaw). Correcting these structural issues surgically can significantly enhance airway patency and breathing efficiency.

Multilevel Airway Collapse Identified on Sleep Endoscopy

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) is used to locate the site(s) of airway collapse. Surgery is indicated for multi-level collapse involving the soft palate, tongue base, and epiglottis, mainly when non-surgical options fail. The surgical procedures, such as Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), Tongue Base Reduction, or Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), are chosen based on the level of obstruction.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Craniofacial Abnormalities

Patients with jaw or skeletal deformities, such as retrognathia, micrognathia, or midface hypoplasia, may need Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) surgery to enlarge the posterior airway space. This surgery advances both the upper and lower jaws, repositioning soft tissues and increasing airway volume.

Morbid Obesity with Refractory Sleep Apnea

For patients with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m² and persistent OSA despite weight loss attempts or CPAP use, bariatric surgery (such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy) is indicated. Weight reduction helps to decrease pharyngeal fat deposition, improves airway tone, and reduces OSA severity.

Severe OSA with Life-Threatening Symptoms

Surgery is indicated for patients with life-threatening OSA who experience severe nocturnal desaturations, cardiac arrhythmias, or right heart strain that persist despite medical therapy. In such critical cases, tracheostomy may be performed as a definitive airway solution.

Pediatric OSA with Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy

In children, adenotonsillectomy is the first-line surgical intervention for OSA caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Surgical correction in pediatric patients can significantly improve sleep quality, growth, and cognitive function.

Refractory Snoring with Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Patients with socially disruptive snoring or mild OSA not responsive to conservative measures may be candidates for Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) or radiofrequency ablation, especially when the obstruction is limited to the soft palate region.

Other Indications

Sleep apnea surgery may also be indicated for patients with nasal obstruction (requiring septoplasty or turbinate reduction), epiglottic collapse, lingual tonsillar hypertrophy, or failure of oral appliance therapy.

Sleep Apnea Surgery Contraindications

Sleep apnea surgery is a valuable option for managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) when non-surgical treatments fail. However, it is not suitable for all patients. The decision to proceed with surgical intervention depends on the severity of the disease, overall health, airway anatomy, and ability to tolerate anesthesia. Below are the major contraindications to sleep apnea surgery:

• Severe Medical Comorbidities
• Inability to Tolerate General Anesthesia
• Active Upper Airway Infection
• Inadequate Airway Evaluation or Undefined Site of Obstruction
• Age and Pediatric Considerations
• Uncontrolled Bleeding Disorders
• Non-Obstructive or Central Sleep Apnea
• Active Malignancy or Prior Radiation to the Neck
• Severe Obesity (BMI > 50 kg/m²) Without Preoperative Optimization

Severe Medical Comorbidities

Patients with uncontrolled cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic conditions-such as severe heart failure, unstable angina, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or advanced diabetes-are generally not suitable for surgery until these conditions are stabilized. These comorbidities significantly increase anesthesia risk and postoperative complications, including hypoxia and arrhythmias.

Inability to Tolerate General Anesthesia

Sleep apnea surgeries, including Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), Tongue Base Reduction, or Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA), require general anesthesia. Patients with poor cardiopulmonary reserve, severe obesity with restrictive lung disease, or airway compromise risk may not tolerate anesthesia safely. In such cases, non-surgical or minimally invasive options like CPAP or Inspire therapy are preferred.

Active Upper Airway Infection

Sleep apnea surgery is contraindicated in the presence of acute infections involving the nasal passages, oropharynx, or tonsils, such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, or pharyngitis. Infection can increase postoperative wound breakdown, swelling, and airway obstruction.

Inadequate Airway Evaluation or Undefined Site of Obstruction

Surgery is not advised when the level of airway collapse is unclear or when multi-level obstructions have not been identified via diagnostic tools such as Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) or imaging studies. Performing surgery without site confirmation may result in ineffective treatment and persistent apnea.

Age and Pediatric Considerations

In children, sleep apnea surgery (such as adenotonsillectomy) is contraindicated if the patient has craniofacial syndromes, neuromuscular diseases, or bleeding disorders without preoperative optimization. Careful evaluation by a pediatric otolaryngologist and anesthesiologist is essential.

Uncontrolled Bleeding Disorders

Patients with hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, or coagulopathies face a high risk of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. Surgery should be deferred until coagulation abnormalities are corrected or managed in consultation with a hematologist.

Non-Obstructive or Central Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea surgery is contraindicated in central or complex sleep apnea, where the cause is neurological or related to brainstem dysfunction rather than physical obstruction. Surgical correction of the airway will not address the underlying issue and may lead to unnecessary risk.

Active Malignancy or Prior Radiation to the Neck

Patients with head and neck cancer, prior radiation, or fibrosis in the oropharyngeal region are at high risk for poor wound healing, infection, and scarring. Such patients require multidisciplinary assessment and alternative treatment plans.

Severe Obesity (BMI > 50 kg/m²) Without Preoperative Optimization

Patients with morbid obesity who have not undergone weight management or optimization may experience poor surgical outcomes and persistent airway collapse. Bariatric surgery or structured weight loss programs should be considered before attempting airway surgery. 

Sleep Apnea Surgery Advantages / Benefits

Sleep apnea surgery is considered a valuable treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who cannot tolerate or do not respond adequately to non-surgical therapies such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or oral appliances. Surgical procedures aim to correct physical airway obstructions to improve airflow and restore healthy sleep patterns.

Below are the key advantages of sleep apnea surgery:

• Improved Airway Patency and Breathing Efficiency
• Long-Term Reduction in Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI)
• Reduced Dependence on CPAP Devices
• Improved Daytime Alertness and Quality of Life
• Tailored, Multilevel Surgical Approach

Improved Airway Patency and Breathing Efficiency

Surgical procedures such as Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), Genioglossus advancement, and Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) enlarge the upper airway by removing or repositioning obstructive tissues, allowing smoother airflow during sleep. This helps to a marked reduction in apneic episodes and snoring.

Long-Term Reduction in Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI)

Research studies reveal that sleep apnea surgeries can significantly reduce AHI scores and improve oxygen saturation levels. Many patients experience sustained symptom relief and fewer breathing interruptions even years after surgery.

Reduced Dependence on CPAP Devices

After successful airway surgery, many patients report about partial or complete freedom from CPAP therapy. This enhances compliance, comfort, and long-term satisfaction, especially for those unable to tolerate CPAP masks.

Improved Daytime Alertness and Quality of Life

Postoperative improvements in breathing lead to deeper, more restorative sleep. As a result, patients experience better concentration, reduced daytime fatigue, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive performance.

Tailored, Multilevel Surgical Approach

Modern OSA surgery is personalized. Surgeons use Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) to pinpoint exact sites of airway collapse-such as the soft palate, tongue base, or epiglottis-and correct multiple levels simultaneously for better outcomes.

Sleep Apnea Surgery Procedure Steps

It includes the following steps: 

Preoperative Evaluation Before Sleep Apnea Surgery

• Before surgery, patients get a full sleep evaluation and an airway exam. 
• A sleep study (polysomnogram) confirms the severity of OSA and guides treatment. An otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or sleep specialist will examine the nose, throat and jaw, often using imaging or endoscopy to find the exact blockage sites. For example, fiberoptic throat scope, cephalometric X-rays or CT scans can show narrow areas. 
• A drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is commonly done, especially before HNS or multi-level surgery. In DISE, a light medication makes the patient sleep briefly so the doctor can watch where and how the airway collapses. This helps tailor the surgery: HNS requires no complete concentric collapse (CCC) pattern on DISE, and MMA planning also uses DISE to confirm which levels collapse. Finally, patients learn about the surgery risks and give informed consent. 
• It is advised that the patient be sent to the anesthesiology pre-op clinic or contacted by phone to be evaluated by the anesthesiology team prior to the surgical procedure date. This is because most surgery is done under general anesthesia, except for sleep endoscopy, and requires review of the patient medications and medical history to ensure for the safest outcome. 
• In certain cases, all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), herbal supplements or any medications are stopped before 2 weeks of surgery date. It is recommended that patients follow and take advice from an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or a sleep specialist on all the medications before, during and after surgery. 

During Sleep Apnea Surgery

• Most sleep apnea surgeries are performed under general anesthesia due to the sensitivity of the tissues involved. This ensures the patient remains unconscious and comfortable throughout the procedure.
• For surgeries such as Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP), or adenotonsillectomy, small incisions are created at the back of the mouth or throat. The surgeon removes specific tissues-such as parts of the uvula, tonsils, or soft palate-to widen the airway and reduce obstruction. The remaining tissues are reshaped and closed using dissolvable sutures.
• Incisions for Facial or Tongue-Related Surgeries, the procedures targeting the chin, jaw, tongue, or nasal structures, most incisions are made inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring. In some cases, small and strategically hidden external incisions may be necessary, particularly for jaw or chin reconstruction.
• Reshaping and Stabilizing Structures, the surgical area is reshaped by removing or adding tissue as needed. The corrected structures are then secured with plates, screws, wires, or internal sutures to maintain stability during healing.
• Closure of Incisions, for internal incisions are closed using dissolvable sutures, while any external cuts are typically stitched with standard sutures. External sutures may be removed after about one week, and internal sutures dissolve naturally within 7–10 days. 

After Sleep Apnea Surgery

• External incisions may be protected with a small dressing or bandage. Mild swelling and bruising are common during the first few days and generally subside within 5–10 days. Noticeable reduction in swelling often occurs in 2–5 weeks. 
• After surgery, patients can expect throat discomfort and some difficulty swallowing for days. Depending on the surgery type, patients may need to follow dietary restrictions, eating is usually restricted to soft foods and plenty of fluids in the first week or two. Recovery time varies by procedure: palatal surgery (like UPPP) often requires about 1–2 weeks before return to normal activities. Jaw surgery (MMA) typically involves a longer recovery (often 2–6 weeks) due to bone healing. Patients are advised to rest for the first 2–3 days and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for about 2 weeks. 
• For HNS, recovery is relatively quick. The procedure takes ~2–3 hours, and most patients go home the same day. Expect some soreness in the neck, chest, or tongue; about 25–30% of patients report incisional discomfort after HNS. Postoperative follow-up is important. For example, one guide notes patients see the surgeon about a week after HNS and return at 4 weeks for activation of the device. A sleep study is usually done a few months later to fine-tune the stimulation. 
• Overall, patients should follow the surgeon’s advice for pain control (prescribed analgesics) and wound care. Healing the throat or jaw tissues takes several weeks. Mild mouth breathing and hoarseness are common after palate surgery and improve over time. Dental hygiene (rinses or saltwater) may be recommended. In the first days after UPPP or glossectomy, some bad breath and ear pain (referred) are normal due to healing. 
• Recovery time varies significantly depending on the surgical method and the severity of sleep apnea. The ENT surgeon provides a personalized recovery plan outlining expected healing stages, dietary recommendations, and activity guidelines. 

Sleep Apnea Surgery Side Effects

Like all surgical interventions, sleep apnea surgery risks can vary depending on the type of surgery, the patient's anatomy, and overall health condition. While most effects are temporary and manageable, understanding sleep apnea surgery complications is essential for proper postoperative care and recovery. Below are some of the common and potential sleep apnea surgery complications: 

• Pain and Soreness
• Swelling and Airway Obstruction
• Bleeding and Infection
• Voice and Speech Changes
• Dry Throat and Difficulty Swallowing
• Temporary Taste Disturbance or Numbness
• Jaw Stiffness or Facial Discomfort
• Residual Sleep Apnea or Relapse
• Scarring or Tissue Irregularities
• General Anesthesia Complications

Pain and Soreness

Mild to moderate pain in the throat, jaw, or surgical site is common after procedures such as Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA). The discomfort typically depletes within a few days to weeks and can be managed with the consumption of prescribed pain relievers.

Swelling and Airway Obstruction

Postoperative swelling of the throat or tongue may cause temporary breathing difficulty or nasal congestion. Patients are usually monitored closely for 24–48 hours after surgery to prevent airway obstruction.

Bleeding and Infection

Minor bleeding at the surgical site can occur in the first few days after surgery, particularly in palate and tonsil-related procedures. Although rare, secondary hemorrhage or infection may arise, requiring antibiotic therapy or hospital monitoring.

Voice and Speech Changes

Some patients may experience effects such as temporary voice alteration, nasal speech, or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) following palate or throat surgeries. These effects are usually mild in nature and resolve as healing progresses.

Dry Throat and Difficulty Swallowing

Post-surgical dryness, sore throat, or a foreign-body sensation is common after soft palate or tongue procedures. So, adequate hydration and throat care help alleviate these temporary symptoms.

Temporary Taste Disturbance or Numbness

Procedures involving the tongue base surgery or palate surgery can occasionally lead to altered taste sensation, numbness, or tingling in the mouth or lips due to nerve irritation. These typically resolve over time.

Jaw Stiffness or Facial Discomfort

After maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) or jaw repositioning surgery, patients may experience temporary stiffness, jaw pain, or mild misalignment during recovery. In general, it is advised that physiotherapy and soft diets are recommended until normal function returns.

Residual Sleep Apnea or Relapse

In some cases, OSA symptoms may persist or recur if airway collapse occurs at multiple levels or if anatomical changes regress over time. Follow-up sleep studies are recommended to reassess severity and treatment response.

Scarring or Tissue Irregularities

Healing after throat or palate surgery may occasionally result in scar tissue formation, which can alter airway anatomy or affect speech resonance. Surgeons take care to minimize these risks with refined surgical techniques.

General Anesthesia Complications

As with any major surgery, there is a small risk of adverse reactions to anesthesia, including nausea, dizziness, or cardiac and respiratory issues. Pre-anesthetic evaluation minimizes these risks.

Sleep Apnea Surgery Recovery

The sleep apnea surgery recovery time after the procedure usually ranges from one to six weeks, depending on the surgical method and individual healing response. But noticeable improvement in breathing and sleep quality may take a few months. Some individuals may still need the use of a CPAP machine during recovery, though it generally becomes more comfortable to use. Mild discomfort, swelling, or light bleeding can occur in the early days post-surgery. Keeping the head slightly elevated while resting helps minimize swelling. If the operation involves areas like the mouth, throat, or jaw, doctors often recommend a soft or liquid diet to aid healing. It is advised to avoid strenuous exercises, and heavy lifting should be postponed for at least two weeks or until the surgeon advises it is safe to resume. 

Questions that the patients can ask the healthcare team about sleep apnea surgery?

• When can I go home after the surgery?
• What kind of pain can I expect post-surgery?
• When should I follow up with my doctor after surgery?
• When can I resume my regular activities, including work and exercise?
• What is the expected recovery time for sleep apnea surgery?
• What precautions should I take during recovery to ensure proper healing?
• What complications or problems might occur after sleep apnea surgery?
• Is it possible for sleep apnea symptoms to return after surgery?
• What should I do if I experience issues like swelling?
• Do I need any further treatment or follow-up care after the surgery?
• Are there any dietary restrictions or recommendations after surgery?

Difference between Sleep Apnea Surgery and CPAP

Sleep Apnea Surgery vs CPAP

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is considered the first-line treatment for sleep apnea, providing constant airflow through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. Surgery is considered when CPAP therapy fails or is not well tolerated. Below are some key parameters that give the difference between Sleep Apnea Surgery and CPAP.

The cost of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) surgery in Hyderabad generally ranges from ₹2,10,000 to ₹3,85,000 (approximately US $2,367 – US $4,345). The exact cost varies depending on several factors such as the type of surgical procedure required, the severity and complexity of your airway obstruction, the surgical technique used, and your overall medical condition.

Cost breakdown according to type of surgery / procedure for sleep apnea:

• Nasal Surgery (Septoplasty / Turbinate Reduction) - ₹85,000 – ₹1,25,000 (US $950 – US $1,410)
• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) - ₹1,25,000 – ₹1,85,000 (US $1,410 – US $2,090)
• Genioglossus Advancement (Tongue Base Surgery) - ₹1,75,000 – ₹2,25,000 (US $1,970 – US $2,530)
• Hyoid Suspension - ₹2,00,000 – ₹2,60,000 (US $2,250 – US $2,920)
• Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) - ₹3,00,000 – ₹3,85,000 (US $3,370 – US $4,345)
• Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (Implant) - ₹4,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 (US $5,050 – US $6,740)

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Sleep Apnea Surgery

Sleep Apnea Surgery might be considered when a person has moderate to severe OSA and finds difficulty tolerating or non-compliance with CPAP (or CPAP is ineffective). Diagnostic assessment reveals specific anatomical airway obstruction (e.g., large tonsils, retrognathia, tongue-base obstruction) amenable to surgical correction. If the person has contraindications to CPAP or prefers a surgical pathway, after discussing risks/benefits with the specialist. The individual is committed to post-operative lifestyle changes (weight loss, positional therapy, etc.), since surgery is part of a broader management plan.

Can sleep-apnea surgery be repeated if it doesn’t work initially?

Yes - revision surgery or additional procedures are possible in some cases, if residual obstruction is identified (e.g., area not addressed initially), additional surgery may be an option. Patients and surgeons must evaluate risks vs benefits of additional surgery, especially if the initial outcome was sub-optimal. Managing other contributing factors (weight, sleep position, nasal obstruction) is critical before considering repeat surgery.

How will sleep apnea surgery affect the ability to sleep comfortably?

Post-surgery, a patient may notice some discomfort, sore throat, swelling in the early days - especially in throat/jaw surgeries. Temporary difficulty swallowing, change in voice or throat sensation may occur, depending on the surgery. As healing progresses, the airway may feel more open, less obstruction, which can lead to more restful sleep. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s instructions on sleeping position, head elevation, avoiding heavy exertion until healing is sufficient.

What follow-up care or monitoring is required after sleep apnea surgery?

Post-operative follow-up is important, it includes, typically, a follow-up sleep study (polysomnogram) several months after surgery to assess residual OSA and therapy need. Ongoing visits with the ENT/airway surgeon and sleep specialist to manage any complications, review symptoms, and adjust treatment plan (including CPAP if needed). Monitoring of weight, comorbid conditions (cardiac, metabolic), and lifestyle factors that influence OSA. If an individual still uses CPAP or other device post-surgery, the sleep specialist may adjust settings or mask/interface as needed.

Will sleep apnea surgery improve an individual's snoring as well?

Yes - in many cases, surgery for OSA leads to a significant reduction in snoring, because snoring often arises from airway vibration/collapse, which surgery addresses. However, snoring improvement is not guaranteed in every case - if there are other contributing factors (nasal obstruction, obesity, positional sleep), they must also be managed in some surgeries that are targeted primarily at apnea reduction (not just snoring), so the surgeon will discuss the snoring expectations explicitly.

Will sleep apnea snoring surgery eliminate the need for CPAP?

Not always. Important points are that while surgery may reduce the severity of OSA and allow some patients to discontinue or reduce CPAP use, it is not guaranteed to fully replace CPAP with all individuals. Success depends heavily on patient anatomy, weight, severity of OSA, and whether multilevel obstruction was addressed. Some guidelines recommend continuing CPAP or other therapy until post-operative sleep study confirms sufficient improvement.

Can sleep apnea surgery help with daytime fatigue and sleep quality?

Yes, in many patients after surgery, they may experience reduced daytime sleepiness, improved alertness, and better quality of sleep. Some long-term studies show effective symptom relief after upper airway surgery. However, improvement depends on how much the surgery reduced the apnea/hypopnea events, and whether other factors (like comorbidities or residual OSA) remain. In a sleep study, post-surgery is often used to verify improvements in AHI and sleep architecture.

Department of ENT | Pulmonology