Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty for Sleep Apnea

What Is Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty?

Laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is a common, in-office procedure to help treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Using state-of-the-art laser technology, the treatment shrinks the size of an enlarged or elongated uvula in order to open the airway and provide relief.

What are the benefits of a laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty?

As mentioned, the main objective and benefit of laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty is to help relieve snoring and reduce the risk of sleep apnea by decreasing the size of a possible breathing obstruction and limiting uvula vibration during breathing. Additional benefits of the procedure include:

• Effectiveness. The procedure enjoys a high success rate in relieving snoring for those whose airway obstruction is caused by their uvula. By offering relief from snoring, it also aids those suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea.
• Convenience. The minimally invasive procedure is performed in a single office visit and usually takes less than 30 minutes. It typically decreases snoring intensity within weeks and normal activity can be resumed quickly.
• Minimal discomfort. Laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty requires only local anesthesia and provides less discomfort than traditional uvula removal surgery or UPPP.

Additionally, there is minimal throat soreness and speaking is often not impacted. It’s important to note that laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty is not a cure for sleep apnea, but commonly does help manage the symptoms.

What does the laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty procedure entail?

Using state-of-the-art laser technology, your surgeon will gently remove excess tissue to reduce the size of the uvula, resulting in a larger airway and less chance of a blocked airway during sleep. The precision and control provided by the laser technology minimizes damage to surrounding tissue, leading to a faster recovery.

Is the laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty covered by insurance?

Although the procedure is well within the financial reach of most people, the treatment is often covered by health insurance or Medicare when it is medically prescribed for the treatment of sleep apnea. The only way to receive coverage for any sleep apnea treatment is to have a sleep test conducted by a recognized sleep center and board-certified doctors like those at NYC SleepWell. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment with NYC SleepWell. Based on a medical history and physical exam, we’ll determine if testing is required in your case. In addition, our financial specialists are always available to help gather your insurance information and contact your insurance provider in order to determine your coverage and help maximize your benefits.

Why choose NYC SleepWell for laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty?

Led by Dr. Ruben Cohen, a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, our skilled team of sleep specialists, ENT surgeons, dentists and anaesthesiologists have extensive experience in laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty — in addition to other in office procedures and surgical treatments for a wide array of conditions related to sleep apnea. For your added peace-of-mind, our facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), the Gold Standard in Accreditation. Our goal at NYC SleepWell, plain and simple, is to help you sleep well – and be healthy!