What Is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)?

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, often abbreviated as UPPP, is a surgical procedure designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring. The surgery removes or reshapes tissues in the throat — including parts of the uvula, soft palate, and pharynx — to widen the airway and reduce obstruction during sleep.

Who Needs UPPP?

UPPP is typically recommended for:

• Patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea who do not respond to CPAP therapy

• Individuals with anatomical obstructions in the throat

• People with loud, persistent snoring affecting quality of life

A sleep specialist or ENT surgeon usually determines suitability after a sleep study (polysomnography) and airway examination.

How the UPPP Procedure Works

1. Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia.

2. Tissue Removal or Reshaping: The surgeon trims excess tissue from the uvula, soft palate, and sometimes the tonsils.

3. Airway Expansion: The goal is to widen the airway and improve airflow during sleep.

4. Duration: The surgery typically takes 60–90 minutes and may require an overnight hospital stay.

Recovery After UPPP

• Initial Healing: Soreness and difficulty swallowing may last 1–2 weeks.

• Diet: Soft foods and hydration are recommended during recovery.

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications can be used.

• Follow-up: Regular post-operative visits ensure proper healing and assess improvements in sleep quality.

Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks, though full recovery can take up to a month.

Benefits of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty

• Reduces snoring and sleep apnea events

• Improves sleep quality and daytime alertness

• Lowers risk of heart disease, hypertension, and other apnea-related complications

• Enhances overall quality of life for patients and partners

Risks and Complications

While generally safe, UPPP may include potential risks such as:

• Temporary throat pain or swelling

• Voice changes

• Difficulty swallowing

• Bleeding or infection

• Persistent or recurring sleep apnea

Your surgeon will discuss these risks and expected outcomes before surgery.

Cost of UPPP Surgery

The cost of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty varies depending on:

• Location and facility fees

• Surgeon’s expertise

• Anesthesia and hospital stay

On average, the procedure costs $3,000–$10,000 in the U.S., but insurance often covers part or all if deemed medically necessary for sleep apnea treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How successful is UPPP for sleep apnea?
Success rates range from 50–70%, depending on anatomy and apnea severity.

2. Is UPPP painful?
Some discomfort is normal, but pain is usually manageable with medication.

3. Can UPPP stop snoring completely?
In many cases, snoring significantly decreases, though not always eliminated entirely.

4. Are there non-surgical alternatives?
Yes — CPAP, oral appliances, and weight management are often tried before surgery.