Effective surgical solution for snoring and sleep apnea!
UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) is a surgical procedure in which the soft palate, uvula, and pharyngeal muscles at the back of the throat are reshaped or excess tissue is removed.
This procedure is performed to open the airway in patients with chronic snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
When is UPPP recommended?
• Severe snoring
• Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• Patients who cannot use or tolerate CPAP devices
• Anatomical narrowing in the throat (large uvula, elongated soft palate, enlarged tonsils)
How is the surgery performed?
• Performed under general anesthesia
• May include:
• Shortening or removal of the uvula
• Reshaping and tightening of the soft palate and pharyngeal muscles
• Sometimes removal of the tonsils
• Duration: 30–60 minutes
Expected outcomes
• Significant reduction or elimination of snoring
• Improved sleep quality due to airway opening
• Reduced daytime fatigue, better concentration, improved quality of life
• CPAP device may no longer be needed (in some cases)
After surgery
• Sore throat for up to 1 week (during swallowing and eating)
• Soft and liquid diet recommended
• Temporary difficulty speaking and throat tightness
• Full recovery: 2–3 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is UPPP surgery painful?
• Throat pain may occur after surgery but is manageable with painkillers.
2. Is the effect permanent?
• If the main cause is anatomical narrowing and excess tissue, the surgery is effective and long-lasting.
3. Can snoring return?
• Weight gain or tissue sagging may cause snoring to return over time, but results are usually permanent and positive.