Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) & CPAP: Effective Treatments for Sleep Apnea at Thanc Hospital, Chennai
Do you or your loved one experience loud snoring, interrupted sleep, or excessive daytime tiredness? These could be signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — a serious sleep disorder that disrupts normal breathing patterns during sleep. At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, we provide advanced diagnostic and treatment solutions, including Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, to help restore restful, healthy sleep.
These treatments are performed by our expert Laryngology and Voice and Airway Clinic specialists, who focus on airway and throat disorders contributing to sleep apnea.
Read on to learn how these treatments work, what to expect from the process, and how our ENT experts at Thanc Hospital ensure the safest and most effective outcomes.
Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Causes
Sleep apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to airway obstruction. The most common form, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), results from the collapse of soft tissues in the throat during sleep, blocking airflow.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Enlarged tonsils or uvula
- Excess tissue in the soft palate or throat
- Obesity or excess neck circumference
- Nasal obstruction or deviated septum
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Alcohol or sedative use before sleep
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue.
At Thanc Hospital, our ENT and sleep specialists perform a complete evaluation to identify the cause and severity of your condition before recommending the most suitable treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Symptoms can affect both nighttime sleep quality and daytime function. Common signs include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Episodes of breathing pauses observed by a partner
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
- Morning headaches
- Mood changes or irritability
If these symptoms persist, it’s important to undergo a sleep evaluation to confirm the diagnosis.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea at Thanc Hospital
At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, we use a comprehensive and patient-focused approach for accurate diagnosis.
1. Detailed Consultation & Sleep History
We begin with an assessment of sleep patterns, snoring habits, medical history, and associated symptoms such as fatigue and mood changes.
2. Physical Examination
A thorough ENT evaluation checks for nasal obstruction, tonsil size, soft palate structure, and other anatomic factors affecting breathing.
3. Polysomnography (Sleep Study)
This overnight study monitors oxygen levels, breathing patterns, heart rate, and sleep stages to determine apnea severity.
4. Imaging and Endoscopic Assessment
For surgical planning, a nasopharyngoscopy or imaging (CT/MRI) may be done to visualize airway obstruction sites.
Following diagnosis, treatment options such as CPAP therapy, UPPP, or other airway surgeries are discussed based on the patient’s condition.
What Is CPAP Therapy?
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a non-surgical, first-line treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
A CPAP machine delivers steady air pressure through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing breathing interruptions.
Benefits of CPAP:
- Restores normal breathing during sleep
- Eliminates snoring and oxygen drops
- Improves daytime alertness and energy
- Reduces risk of heart-related complications
- Non-invasive and highly effective when used regularly
At Thanc Hospital, our specialists customize CPAP therapy with proper mask fitting, pressure adjustment, and patient education for long-term comfort and success.
What Is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)?
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure that removes or reshapes excess tissue in the throat — including the uvula, soft palate, and sometimes tonsils — to widen the airway and reduce obstruction during sleep.
UPPP is recommended when:
- CPAP is not tolerated or ineffective
- Structural throat obstruction is identified
- The patient has severe snoring or persistent apnea due to soft tissue collapse
At Thanc Hospital, we perform endoscope-assisted, precision-guided UPPP, ensuring maximum airway improvement with minimal discomfort and downtime.
The UPPP Procedure: Step by Step
Preoperative Preparation
- Detailed sleep study and airway examination
- Pre-surgical medical evaluation and anesthesia clearance
- Fasting and medication review (especially blood thinners)
- Preoperative counseling to set expectations
During the Procedure
- General anesthesia is administered
- The surgeon removes or trims excess tissue from the uvula, soft palate, and surrounding throat area
- In select cases, tonsillectomy or other airway corrections are performed simultaneously
- No external incisions — all access is through the mouth
- Procedure duration: approximately 60–90 minutes
Postoperative Monitoring
- Close observation in the recovery room for 4–6 hours
- Pain management and oxygen monitoring
- Same-day or next-day discharge, depending on recovery
Experiencing loud snoring or disturbed sleep?
Our expert ENT and sleep specialists at Thanc Hospital, Chennai can help you breathe better and sleep deeper.
Schedule a consultation today to find the most effective solution — CPAP or UPPP — for your condion
Recovery at Home: Week-by-Week Guide
Days 1–3: Early Phase
- Mild throat pain and difficulty swallowing
- Stick to soft, cool foods (soups, yogurt, smoothies)
- Avoid hot, spicy, or rough foods
- Take prescribed pain relievers and antibiotics
Days 4–10: Healing Phase
- Gradual improvement in throat comfort and sleep quality
- Continue soft diet and maintain hydration
- Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting
Weeks 2–3: Recovery & Results
- Most swelling and discomfort subside
- Breathing and snoring improvements become noticeable
- Return to work or school usually possible by day 10–14 (per doctor’s advice)
- Follow-up visit for healing assessment and sleep quality review
Long-Term Benefits & Outcomes
Both CPAP therapy and UPPP surgery offer transformative benefits for patients struggling with obstructive sleep apnea:
- Significant reduction or elimination of snoring
- Restored, uninterrupted sleep
- Improved oxygenation and overall health
- Enhanced daytime focus, energy, and mood
- Reduced risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke
- Better quality of life for both patients and partners
Safety, Success, and Standards at Thanc Hospital
At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, safety, precision, and patient satisfaction guide every procedure.
Our Strengths
- Experienced ENT and sleep surgery specialists
- Advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment
- NABH-accredited operation theatres
- Stringent sterilization and monitoring standards
- Personalized post-procedure care and follow-up
- 24/7 medical support and emergency readiness
Our high success rates and patient satisfaction reflect our commitment to excellence in ENT and sleep care.
Risks and How We Minimize Them
While CPAP and UPPP are safe and effective treatments, they may carry some manageable risks.
Temporary Effects
- Throat discomfort or mild pain
- Nasal dryness or congestion (in CPAP users)
- Temporary swallowing difficulty after UPPP
Rare Complications (<2%)
- Postoperative infection or bleeding
- Voice tone alteration
- Reaction to anesthesia
Risk Reduction Strategies
- Preoperative health screening
- Skilled anesthesiology and surgical teams
- Strict sterile protocols
- Regular postoperative monitoring
Preparing for Treatment
- Follow sleep study and diagnostic instructions carefully
- Inform your doctor of all medications and allergies
- Stop smoking and avoid alcohol before treatment
- Stay calm and well-rested before surgery
- Arrange post-procedure support if needed
Our team ensures you and your family are fully informed, comfortable, and supported at every stage — from diagnosis to long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is UPPP surgery painful?
Mild discomfort is expected, but pain is well managed with medication.
Can CPAP cure sleep apnea completely?
CPAP effectively controls symptoms but must be used consistently for continued benefit.
How long does UPPP recovery take?
Most patients recover within 10–14 days, with noticeable breathing improvements within the first week.
What if CPAP doesn’t work for me?
If CPAP is intolerable or ineffective, surgical options like UPPP can offer lasting relief.
Does removing throat tissue affect speech or swallowing?
Temporary changes are possible but typically resolve as healing progresses.
Can sleep apnea return after surgery?
Rarely, especially if weight gain or new nasal obstructions occur. Regular follow-up helps ensure lasting results.
Expert Sleep Apnea Care at Thanc Hospital, Chennai
✓ Board-certified ENT & Sleep Surgery specialists
✓ State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical facilities
✓ Personalized CPAP fitting and sleep therapy support
✓ Insurance & cashless facility available
✓ Conveniently located in Chennai
Final Thoughts & Guidance
Sleep apnea is more than just snoring — it’s a serious condition that affects overall health, productivity, and longevity. At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, our expert ENT and sleep specialists offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatments including CPAP therapy and Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) to help patients breathe, sleep, and live better.
Through world-class surgical precision, compassionate care, and advanced technology, we are committed to restoring your quality of sleep — and your quality of life.
