Snoring and OSA-Laser Surgery of Nose.
Dr.K.O.Paulose FRCS DLO, Consultant ENT Surgeon, Jubilee Hospital, Trivandrum, Kerala, India.
Surgery to treat snoring is designed to reduce obstruction or narrowing in the anatomic area that is causing the snoring. Frequently, there is more than one involved area, so surgery on only one of the narrow areas may decrease snoring but not eliminate it entirely. Surgical treatment of snoring is generally focused on the nasal passages, palate and uvula, and tongue. Most of the surgical procedures are performed in a doctor’s office. Most insurance companies do not cover procedures or medications to treat snoring, so make sure to check with your insurance provider and ask the cost of a procedure before you schedule it.
Nasal surgery for snoring
Nasal surgery to treat snoring is generally focused on improving a narrow nasal passage. Laser can be used to shrink the turbinates(LAPT) by creating scar tissue in them, resulting in a more open nasal passage.
Several other anatomic problems can cause or worsen snoring. The nasal septum in the center of the nose that separates the right and left nasal passages. After trauma  (including during birth), the septum can be deviated to one side or may curve to both sides. The septum deviation can be corrected by removing the crooked cartilage-septoplasty.
Nasal polyps are usually caused by allergies. As they continue to enlarge over time, they can cause nasal obstruction. If the polyps are large enough, they will require surgery to remove them-Nasal Polypectomy. Removing the polyps reduces nasal obstruction, which may also improve snoring.
