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A new type of sleep apnea surgery is being dubbed by Otolaryngologist Dr. Brian Weeks as a ‘throat face lift’. This surgical procedure is called Plasma Blade Surgery. It involves the repositioning of the tonsil tissues in the throat in order to make the throat opening wider. The main difference of this procedure from other sleep apnea surgeries is that it does not cut out or remove a lot of tissues in the throat. It only repositions the excess tissues and keeps the rest intact.
The most common type of sleep apnea surgery is called a tonsillectomy or the removal of the entire tonsillar tissue. This procedure is usually performed on children and sufferers who are not obese yet have obstructions in the throat. As compared to this type of surgical procedure, plasma blade surgery is different because it repositions the tissues instead of removing it.
Plasma Blade Surgery, the new surgical treatment alternative for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome provides less trauma to a person’s throat tissues. There is less pain and bleeding. Recovery period is relatively faster. However, since the surgery is relatively new, there is a growing debate as of the effectiveness and safety of this sleep apnea surgery. Although there has been documented cases in which this procedure has been performed and showed effective results. Further research and consultation with a sleep doctor and ENT is still advised.
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