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UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)

Soft palate surgery for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)?

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is the most commonly performed soft palate surgery for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and refractory snoring. The uvula is shortened, the lateral soft palate edges and tonsils (when present) are excised to widen the oropharyngeal lumen.

Friedman staging and drug-induced sleep endoscopy are decisive in patient selection; UPPP alone may be insufficient in multilevel obstruction. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and is often designed as single-level surgery.

Success rates reach 50-70% in carefully selected cases; offers an alternative or complement for patients intolerant of CPAP therapy.

Symptoms

Loud, intermittent snoring
Witnessed apnea episodes
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headache and dry mouth
Attention and memory problems
Nocturnal choking sensation

Risk Factors

Obesity and short neck
Large uvula, redundant soft palate
Tonsillar hypertrophy
Retrognathia, micrognathia
Alcohol and sedative use
Chronic nasal obstruction

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If CPAP tolerance is inadequate
  • Moderate-severe OSAS combined with anatomical narrowing
  • Apnea documented by sleep study
  • Severe snoring causing social distress
  • Daytime functioning seriously affected

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative drug-induced sleep endoscopy for level identification
02
Classic UPPP or modifications (Z-palatoplasty)
03
Concurrent tonsillectomy
04
Postoperative pain management and nutrition
05
Combination with hypopharyngeal surgery if needed
06
Long-term polysomnography follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.