Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
Are you frustrated by restless nights and persistent daytime fatigue? If you suspect you have sleep apnea or haven’t seen improvement despite a diagnosis, it might be time to explore alternative treatments. Our team at Aglow ENT Centre is ready to support you with a specialised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, commonly known as UPPP, is a surgical procedure used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where blocked airways cause repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. This major surgery can provide significant relief from symptoms and boost quality of life, especially for those who haven’t responded well to other conventional treatments for OSA.
During the procedure, tissues in the throat (pharynx) are either removed or reshaped to enhance airflow. This may involve the removal of various parts, including:
- Uvula: The soft, teardrop-shaped flap of tissue hanging down at the back of the mouth. The procedure typically involves partial or total removal of the uvulval.
- Soft Palate: The soft, flexible tissue at the back of your throat, extending from the hard, bony roof of your mouth.
- Tonsils: Two fleshy lumps located on either side of the back of your throat.
- Tissues at the sides of the throat
If you are struggling with OSA and seeking an effective solution, take the next step towards better sleep and a healthier life — book your appointment with our expert ENT specialist at Aglow ENT Centre today.
What is the Success Rate of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
UPPP has shown the highest success rates in patients who are considered suitable for the procedure. Two of the most important factors to consider are the patient’s mouth and throat anatomy, as well as their weight.
When assessing patients for UPPP, ENT specialists carefully evaluate the size of the tonsils and other anatomical features to determine if they are a good fit for the procedure. Patients with notably large tonsils might require additional treatments to effectively address their OSA, as UPPP alone may not be sufficient.
Weight also plays a crucial role; those with excess fat around the neck or throat might not experience significant improvements after the surgery, as the airway could still be blocked.
Overall, UPPP has a good success rate for suitable candidates, offering significant improvements in quality of life and lasting relief from OSA.
What are the Benefits of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
- Improved Airflow and Breathing: UPPP removes excess tissue from the throat, which helps to widen the airway and improves breathing during sleep.
- Reduction or Elimination of Snoring: By opening the airway, UPPP can significantly reduce or eliminate snoring, improving sleep quality for both the patient and their partner.
- Alleviation of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) symptoms: UPPP can decrease episodes of airway obstruction during sleep, reducing the severity of sleep apnea.
- Decreased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Treating sleep apnea through UPPP can reduce the associated risk of developing heart-related conditions, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
- Potential Reduction in Daytime Fatigue: By improving sleep quality and reducing apnea events, patients may experience less daytime sleepiness and improved overall energy levels.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
All surgeries carry risks. There are specific side effects related to the major surgery UPPP, including sore throat, difficulty swallowing, throat dryness and feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation). These side effects are expected as part of the healing process and tend to resolve within a few weeks.
When should you see an ENT specialist in Singapore?
Please consult an ENT specialist if you are suffering from any ear, nose, or throat symptoms. It is also advisable to visit an ENT doctor if you experience persistent mouth breathing due to a chronic blocked nose or encounter snoring issues.
Dr Ker Liang sees adults and children for general ENT conditions and provides comprehensive management in a broad range of Ear, Nose, and Throat, as well as Head and Neck conditions. She has a special interest in treating throat and voice conditions, including persistent sore throat, voice issues, snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
