How Does Surgical Sleep Apnea Treatment Work In Calgary?

(MENAFN- Market Press Release) September 24, 2025 12:01 am - For Calgary residents whose CPAP machines have failed them, surgical sleep apnea treatment offers an 85% success rate through jaw repositioning procedures. Oral Maxillofacial surgeons, like the ones at Calgary Oral Surgery Group

Key Takeaways
- Three primary surgical procedures effectively treat sleep apnea when CPAP machines and oral appliances fail to provide relief
- Maxillomandibular advancement surgery can achieve success rates upwards of 85% in certain patient populations by permanently repositioning both jaws forward
- Recovery requires 6-8 weeks with modified diet requirements, but results typically last decades with proper weight management
- Surgical candidacy depends on anatomical factors and documented failure of non-surgical treatments first
- Expert evaluation with sleep studies and 3D imaging determines the most appropriate surgical approach for each patient

Sleep apnea affects millions of Canadians, disrupting not just nightly rest but overall health and quality of life. While CPAP machines work well for many patients, some individuals find these devices intolerable or ineffective. When traditional treatments fail, surgical intervention becomes a viable path toward lasting relief.

Three Surgical Procedures Successfully Treat Sleep Apnea
Modern sleep apnea surgery has evolved far beyond the limited options of decades past. Today's surgical approaches target the specific anatomical causes of airway obstruction with remarkable precision and effectiveness. These procedures work by permanently restructuring the airway to prevent collapse during sleep, offering freedom from nightly devices for qualifying patients.

The three primary surgical options each address different aspects of airway obstruction. Unlike temporary solutions that require ongoing compliance, these surgical interventions create lasting anatomical changes that maintain airway patency throughout sleep cycles.

Calgary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery specializes in these advanced surgical treatments, providing care for patients who haven't found relief through conventional methods. Their expertise in sleep apnea surgery helps patients achieve the restful sleep that medications and devices couldn't provide.

Specific Surgical Options Target Different Airway Issues
Each surgical procedure addresses distinct anatomical problems that contribute to sleep apnea. Understanding how these procedures work helps patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.

Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) Moves Both Jaws Forward
Maxillomandibular advancement represents the gold standard of sleep apnea surgery, achieving success rates upwards of 85% in certain patient populations. This procedure permanently repositions both the upper and lower jaws forward by typically 7-10mm, dramatically expanding the airway space.

The surgery involves carefully planned bone cuts made entirely inside the mouth, eliminating external scarring. Surgeons use 3D imaging and virtual planning to determine optimal advancement measurements, then secure both jaws in their new positions using titanium plates and screws. This forward movement pulls the tongue and surrounding soft tissues forward, significantly increasing airway space.

MMA works by creating a permanent anatomical solution rather than relying on external devices. The average patient experiences substantial reduction in breathing interruptions. These improvements prove remarkably durable, with studies showing many patients maintaining clinically significant benefits after several years.

Genioglossus Advancement Repositions Tongue Muscle
Genioglossus advancement specifically targets tongue-related airway obstruction by repositioning the primary tongue muscle attachment. This procedure prevents the tongue from collapsing backward during sleep, which commonly causes airway blockage in sleep apnea patients.

The surgery involves repositioning the genioglossus muscle, which controls tongue movement and position. By advancing this muscle attachment point, surgeons ensure the tongue maintains proper position throughout sleep cycles, preventing the backward collapse that triggers breathing interruptions.

This targeted approach particularly benefits patients whose sleep studies show tongue-base obstruction as the primary cause of their breathing difficulties. The procedure often combines with other surgical techniques for optimal results in complex cases.

Hyoid Suspension Secures Neck Bone
Hyoid suspension addresses airway collapse at the level of the hyoid bone in the neck. This small but vital bone supports tongue and throat muscles, and its position significantly affects airway stability during sleep.

The procedure secures the hyoid bone in an advanced position to prevent airway collapse during sleep. Modern techniques like the AIRLIFT procedure offer hyoid suspension with an emphasis on patient comfort and reduced invasiveness while maintaining effectiveness.

This surgical option particularly benefits patients with lower airway obstruction patterns. The procedure prevents the soft tissue collapse that occurs when throat muscles relax during deep sleep phases, maintaining open airways throughout the night.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary After CPAP Failure
Surgery becomes the next logical step when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief. However, specific criteria must guide surgical candidacy to ensure optimal outcomes.

Non-Surgical Treatments Must Be Tried First
Medical protocols require documented trials of non-surgical treatments before considering surgery. CPAP therapy remains the first-line treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea, with oral appliances serving as alternatives for appropriate candidates.

Unfortunately, CPAP compliance remains challenging for many patients. Studies show 54% of patients cannot tolerate CPAP long-term due to mask discomfort, claustrophobia, skin irritation, or lifestyle limitations. When patients demonstrate genuine CPAP intolerance or inadequate symptom improvement despite proper usage, surgical evaluation becomes appropriate.

Documentation of failed conservative treatments strengthens insurance approval for surgical procedures. Most major insurance plans require evidence of CPAP trial duration, compliance attempts, and ongoing symptoms despite treatment before approving surgical interventions.

Anatomical Factors Determine Surgical Candidacy
Not every sleep apnea patient qualifies for surgical treatment. Ideal surgical candidates often include younger patients with moderate to severe OSA and a lower BMI, though individual anatomical factors are the primary determinants.

Those with receded jaws particularly benefit from maxillomandibular advancement, though normal facial structure doesn't preclude success. Patients with cardiovascular disease may have lower odds of surgical success, requiring careful evaluation.

Evaluation includes sleep study review, physical examination, and advanced imaging to assess airway anatomy. 3D imaging reveals the specific locations and patterns of airway obstruction, guiding surgical planning and procedure selection for optimal outcomes.

What Happens During Your Surgery Journey
The surgical treatment process follows a systematic approach designed to maximize success while ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the experience.

1. Initial Consultation With Sleep Study Review
The process begins with evaluation including detailed sleep study analysis and clinical assessment. Surgeons review polysomnography results, examining breathing interruption patterns, oxygen saturation levels, and sleep architecture disruption.

During consultation, surgeons assess facial anatomy, dental occlusion, and airway dimensions. This evaluation identifies the specific anatomical factors contributing to sleep apnea and determines which surgical approaches offer the best success probability.

Patients discuss their CPAP experience, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals. This conversation helps establish realistic expectations and ensures surgical intervention aligns with patient needs and preferences.

2. Customized Treatment Planning With 3D Imaging
Advanced 3D imaging technology creates detailed anatomical models for precise surgical planning. This technology enables surgeons to visualize the exact airway dimensions and plan optimal jaw positioning for maximum airway expansion.

Virtual surgical planning uses computer modeling to simulate surgical outcomes before the actual procedure. This technology improves precision within millimeters while improving both functional effectiveness and aesthetic results.

Treatment plans consider individual anatomical variations, ensuring each surgical approach addresses the patient's specific obstruction patterns. This customization maximizes success rates while minimizing unnecessary intervention.

3. General Anesthesia Surgery Procedure
Sleep apnea surgery requires general anesthesia for patient comfort and surgical precision. The 2-3 hour procedure takes place in state-of-the-art surgical facilities with monitoring throughout.

Surgeons perform all incisions inside the mouth, eliminating external scarring. Bone cuts release the jaws from their current positions, allowing advancement to predetermined positions. Titanium plates and screws secure the jaws in their new positions, providing stable long-term results.

Post-surgical monitoring begins immediately, with most patients spending their first night in intensive care for airway observation due to expected swelling. This careful monitoring ensures patient safety during the initial recovery period.

4. Post-Surgical Recovery and Follow-Up Care
Recovery involves close medical supervision and detailed aftercare instructions for optimal healing. Patients typically remain hospitalized for 2-3 days, receiving pain management, nutrition support, and airway monitoring.

Follow-up appointments monitor healing progress and address any concerns during recovery. These visits ensure proper bone healing, assess numbness recovery, and track functional improvements throughout the healing process.

Long-term follow-up includes sleep study verification of surgical success, typically performed 3-6 months post-surgery. This objective measurement confirms breathing improvement and guides any additional treatment needs.

Recovery Takes 6-8 Weeks With Modified Diet Requirements
Recovery follows a predictable timeline with specific milestones marking progress toward full healing. The first two weeks present the most challenging period with severe facial swelling and liquid-only dietary restrictions.

Temporary anchorage devices, also known as mini-screws, remain in the bone near the teeth for approximately six weeks, connected by rubber bands that gradually loosen, a technique that offers improved comfort compared to older methods. This differs from historical approaches where jaws were wired completely shut.

By week three, swelling noticeably decreases and patients advance to pureed foods while beginning rubber band adjustments. Most patients return to desk work during weeks 2-3, though physical jobs require 6-8 weeks off. Week six marks arch bar removal and transition toward normal foods, though complete healing with final appearance takes 9-12 months.

Some patients may experience weight loss during recovery due to dietary restrictions, often welcomed by patients. Facial numbness affects virtually everyone initially, feeling like extended dental anesthesia. This sensation improves significantly over months but becomes permanent in a small percentage of patients, though most adapt well since only sensation changes, not muscle function.

Calgary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Offers Expert Sleep Apnea Solutions
Choosing the right surgical team makes the difference between successful outcomes and disappointing results. Experience with sleep apnea surgery, access to advanced technology, and patient care distinguish exceptional providers from routine practitioners.

The complexity of sleep apnea surgery requires specialized training in head and neck anatomy, airway dynamics, and the intricate relationship between facial structure and breathing function. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons possess this advanced training, combining dental and medical expertise to address sleep apnea's underlying anatomical causes.

Success depends not just on surgical skill but on thorough evaluation, appropriate patient selection, and post-operative care. The best outcomes result from collaborative approaches involving sleep specialists, ensuring optimal treatment planning and long-term success monitoring.

For Calgary residents struggling with sleep apnea who haven't found relief through CPAP or other conservative treatments, Calgary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery provides expert surgical solutions that can restore restful sleep and improve overall health.

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