Somnoplasty
If you suffer from nasal obstructions or if sleep apnea is disrupting your life, you may be a candidate for somnoplasty. This minimally invasive procedure can help treat the symptoms of breathing obstructions and sleep apnea with efficiency and care.
Somnoplasty is a procedure designed to treat obstructions in our air passageways. It uses low-power radiofrequency energy to gently reduce the size of tissues in the mouth and nose.
Radiofrequency energy is delivered beneath the surface layer, or mucosa, of the nasal or oral passageway. The treated tissue is heated just enough to harmlessly constrict it, helping expand the passageway and relieve the obstruction.
The somnoplasty procedure is a safe, fast and effective way to relieve nasal and oral obstructions. The procedure is performed in the physician's office or outpatient setting under local anesthesia, and typically takes less than 30 minutes.
During the procedure, your doctor takes a thin electrode and places it either in your nostrils or the back of your throat. The electrode uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate and tighten the muscles causing the obstruction. As they tighten, the passageway expands, allowing you to breath better.
The somnoplasty procedure is designed to treat symptoms without the pain associated with conventional or laser-assisted surgeries. But as with any procedure, somnoplasty does carry certain risks. These include swelling, dryness, bleeding, difficulty swallowing and slight postoperative pain.
Doctors Specializing in Somnoplasty
At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
