Can Snoring Be Fixed With Surgery?

Dr.Abhinit Kumar, 3 mins read

Many people deal with snoring, but many of them admit it, while some of them do not.  It may seem like a harmless noise during sleep, but can be a sign of a deeper problem. For some people, it is only a minor annoyance, but for others, especially those suffering from sleep apnea, it can affect health, energy levels, and quality of life. One question which commonly arises in people who do snoring is “can snoring be fixed with surgery?”.

What are the Causes of Snoring?

Snoring occurs when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is partly blocked while sleeping. This can be due to the presence of loose or extra tissue in the throat, a long soft palate or uvula, nasal congestion or a deviated septum and tongue falling back into the throat. It can also be caused due to obesity, alcohol use, or sleep position.

Sometimes, snoring is just a small problem, it can be found linked to a condition called obstructive sleep apnea, where breathing stops and starts during sleep. Treatment is very important in that case.

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgery is not the first treatment of choice for treating snoring.  Doctors usually suggest that patients change their lifestyle first, which may include losing weight, sleeping on your side, or avoiding alcohol before bed. In some cases, a CPAP machine (which keeps airways open during sleep) may be used, especially for sleep apnea. If these methods don’t work and the snoring is due to a physical blockage, surgery might be recommended.

Types of Surgery for Snoring

There are a few different kinds of surgery used to treat snoring. It depends on their cause of the blockage.

1. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): This is one of the most common surgeries for snoring. It  involves removal of extra tissue from the back of the throat and the soft palate. The main aim of this surgery is to widen the airway, making it easier for air to flow without causing vibrations that lead to snoring.
2. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This is a less invasive procedure. It uses heat to shrink tissues in the soft palate or tongue. It is performed in several small treatments and has a shorter recovery time.
3. Nasal Surgery: If the problem lies in the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, correcting these issues can reduce or stop snoring. Procedures might include septoplasty or turbinate reduction.
4. Tonsillectomy or Adenoidectomy: In children, large tonsils or adenoids are a common cause of snoring and sleep apnea. Removing them can solve the problem completely.

Does Surgery Really Work?

Now the main question comes? Whether surgery can be helpful. The answer is yes. It is very helpful for the right person. Many people see a big improvement in their snoring or even complete relief. However, it’s not a guaranteed fix. Some people may still snore, although less than before. And, as with any surgery, there can be risks such as pain, bleeding, or infection.

The most important part of the treatment is getting the right diagnosis. A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, may be required to investigate the cause of snoring, especially if it's severe or accompanied by other symptoms. This helps doctors choose the best treatment.

Conclusion

Surgery can fix snoring, but it depends on the cause of the snoring and how severe it is. If you or someone you love snores loudly, wakes up feeling tired, or stops breathing during sleep, it is worth talking to an ENT specialist.  Simple lifestyle changes might be enough, but in some cases, surgery offers a long-term solution. The key is finding the right approach that fits your unique situation.