Snoring (Palatoplasty)

What is the operation?

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A palatoplasty is an operation to alter the shape of the palate. This is the floppy soft part of the back of your mouth. 

 

Why would someone need this operation?

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Changing the shape of the palate can help with snoring. If you see one of our consultants about snoring, they will assess your nose, mouth and neck. It may be that this operation is deemed appropriate to improve your airway. Typically, this operation is offered if your palate is long and narrowing the space through which you breath. This procedure can be combined with nasal surgery (eg septoplasty) and often tonsil removal as well.

 

Who does the operation?

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In our team, Mr Andy Carswell and Mr Stuart Gillett offer this surgery. 

 

Before the operation

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As with any surgery, you can take steps to improve your health and enhance your recovery before the operation; stopping smoking at least 4 weeks before, trying to maintain a healthy weight and taking regular exercise.

 

The operation

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You will come into the hospital as a day case admission. On the day, the team will confirm your consent and check you in. The actual procedure will take around an hour. Afterwards you will be cared for on the ward until you are ready to go home. Remember you cannot drive for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic.

 

After the operation

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This operation is painful during your recovery. You will be given advice on regular pain relief and anti-inflammatories when you are in the hospital. You will need pain relief for at least ten days and we would recommend taking two weeks off work to recover. Some people find it easier to eat a diet of soft food while the palate is healing.

 

Is a follow up appointment required?

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Normally we would offer and arrange a follow up appointment to monitor your recovery.