Sleep Apnoea and Sinus Surgery
what is Sleep apnoea and sinus surgery
Sleep apnoea and sinus surgery are procedures that may be performed to address functional concerns affecting breathing, sleep quality, or sinus health. They can involve correcting structural issues within the nose, throat, or airways to relieve obstruction, chronic congestion, or disrupted sleep patterns.
The nose, sinuses, and upper airway each play important roles in breathing and overall wellbeing. For this reason, treatment requires careful assessment of the nasal passages, sinus cavities, soft tissue, and airway function. Procedures may involve clearing blockages, reshaping internal structures, or removing tissue, depending on the individual’s anatomy and symptoms.
Because sleep apnoea and sinus conditions can affect both breathing and quality of life, a detailed consultation is important. During this consultation, your surgeon can discuss your symptoms, assess whether surgery is appropriate, explain the available treatment options, and outline the potential risks and limitations.
about the procedure
Sleep apnoea occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely obstructed during sleep, leading to repeated breathing interruptions, poor sleep quality, fatigue, and potential cardiovascular implications. Surgical management may address nasal and throat causes of obstruction. Nasal surgery typically involves septoplasty and turbinate reduction. Throat surgery (palatoplasty) may remove residual tonsil tissue, the uvula, and excess soft palate tissue. Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic in a hospital theatre setting and is entirely internal no external incisions or visible swelling. Results vary between individuals.
who is suitable?
Candidates are assessed on a case by case basis following a thorough ENT consultation, physical examination, and review of BMI and sleep history. Suitable candidates are typically those with identifiable anatomical causes of obstruction that are considered surgically correctable. Surgical outcomes may be less effective in patients who are significantly overweight. At least two consultations are required prior to any surgical decision.
RECOVERY
Recovery from sleep apnoea and sinus surgery typically requires approximately two weeks. The following general guidelines apply:
• An overnight hospital stay is generally recommended
• No exercise in week one
• Walking only in week two
• Light cardio from week three
• Light weights from week four
• Return to normal activity between weeks five and six
• There is no external bruising or swelling as surgery is entirely internal
• Nasal splints, if placed, are removed at a post operative appointment
Your treating doctor will provide specific post operative instructions tailored to your individual circumstances prior to your procedure.
RISKS
As with any surgical procedure, sleep apnoea and sinus surgery carries potential risks. These may include, but are not limited to:
• Pain or discomfort, particularly in the throat following palatoplasty
• Bleeding or haematoma
• Infection
• Swelling or bruising
• Incomplete resolution of symptoms
• Nasal blockage or changes in nasal airflow
• Adverse reaction to general anaesthesia
• Need for further treatment
Your treating doctor will discuss the risks, benefits, alternatives, and recovery process with you in detail during your consultation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Individual Assessment
Every patient requires a personalised consultation to determine appropriate treatment planning.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.For more detailed information about potential risks, recovery and post operative care, please visit rhinoplastysydney.com.au/disclaimer/