When to Consider Oral Surgery for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often leading to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and other health issues. While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines and other conservative treatments can help manage symptoms, these approaches don’t work for everyone. For some individuals, the root cause of sleep apnea lies in a restricted airway due to excess tissue or bone alignment issues. In such cases, oral surgery may be the most effective solution.

Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian, DDS, MD, a board-certified oral surgeon at Torrance Oral Surgery, specializes in advanced surgical treatments, including those for sleep apnea. With his expertise in both dentistry and medicine, Dr. Yagoubian provides comprehensive care for patients who need surgical intervention to achieve long-term relief.

Understanding the Causes of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing interruptions in breathing. This condition can result from several factors, such as:

• Excess soft tissue: In some patients, the tissues at the back of the throat collapse during sleep, blocking the airway.
• Structural abnormalities: Misalignment of the jaw or other bone structures can restrict airflow, making it difficult to breathe properly.
• Obesity: Excess weight can lead to fat deposits around the upper airway, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.

While many patients find relief through lifestyle changes, CPAP machines, or oral appliances, those with more severe blockages may require oral surgery to correct the underlying issues.

When to Consider Oral Surgery for Sleep Apnea

Oral surgery is generally recommended for individuals who have not experienced improvement with non-invasive treatments. Surgery becomes necessary when sleep apnea is caused by physical obstructions that cannot be managed with a CPAP or lifestyle changes alone.

There are several types of oral surgeries that can address sleep apnea, depending on the cause and severity of the condition:

1. Uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP)

One of the most common surgical options for sleep apnea is uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP). This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the throat, including the uvula, to widen the airway. UPPP is particularly effective for patients whose sleep apnea is caused by enlarged tissues in the soft palate.

2. Genioglossus Advancement (GA)

In some cases, sleep apnea is caused by the tongue collapsing backward during sleep, obstructing the airway. Genioglossus advancement (GA) repositions the tongue by pulling the base of the tongue forward. This opens up the airway and reduces the chances of obstruction during sleep.

3. Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)

For patients whose sleep apnea is due to jaw misalignment, maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) can be performed to reposition the upper and lower jaws. By advancing the jaws, MMA increases the size of the airway and reduces the likelihood of obstruction. This surgery is particularly beneficial for those with more severe forms of sleep apnea that are resistant to other treatments.

Is Oral Surgery Right for You?

Oral surgery is typically reserved for individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea who have not found relief through other means. The decision to pursue surgery should be made in consultation with a sleep specialist and an experienced oral surgeon like Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian.

If your sleep apnea is affecting your quality of life and conservative treatments have not been effective, Dr. Yagoubian can perform a thorough evaluation to determine if surgery is a suitable option. With his dual expertise in both oral and maxillofacial surgery and sleep apnea treatments, Dr. Yagoubian is highly qualified to provide safe and effective surgical solutions.

Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian: Expert Care for Sleep Apnea Patients

Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian, DDS, MD, is one of the top oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Southern California. With advanced training in complex surgeries and a commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Yagoubian offers state-of-the-art treatments to help patients find lasting relief from sleep apnea. His dual degrees in both dentistry and medicine uniquely position him to understand the intricacies of sleep apnea and provide comprehensive solutions that address the root cause of the condition.

As a trusted expert in the field, Dr. Yagoubian has successfully treated numerous patients, improving both their sleep quality and overall health. At Torrance Oral Surgery, his team is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment for their condition.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep

If you’re struggling with sleep apnea and conservative treatments aren’t providing relief, it might be time to explore oral surgery as an option. At Torrance Oral Surgery, Dr. Benjamin Yagoubian can help you determine if surgery is right for you and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your sleep and overall health.

Contact Torrance Oral Surgery today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward breathing easier at night.