When Is Surgical Intervention Recommended for Patients with Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea affects an estimated 30 million Americans, yet many people remain undiagnosed or under-treated. While CPAP machines and oral appliances help countless individuals manage their condition, these treatments are not always effective for everyone. For some patients in West Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles area, surgical intervention offers a more permanent and effective solution—especially when anatomical factors are the root cause.

At Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery, Dr. David Salehani provides advanced surgical options to address sleep apnea at its source. As a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with specialized training in sleep-related airway obstruction, Dr. Salehani works closely with sleep specialists and physicians to tailor each treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs.

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Anatomical Causes

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles and soft tissues in the throat collapse during sleep, blocking the airway and causing repeated breathing interruptions. This can lead to loud snoring, gasping, daytime fatigue, and serious long-term health risks like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

In many cases, anatomical features—such as a small jaw, enlarged tongue, narrow airway, or excess soft tissue—contribute to the collapse of the upper airway. For patients with these structural issues, surgery may offer the most effective path to long-term relief.

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgical treatment is typically recommended when:

• CPAP therapy is ineffective or intolerable
• Oral appliances have failed to improve symptoms
• Imaging studies reveal clear anatomical obstructions
• The patient has moderate to severe sleep apnea with measurable airway collapse

At Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery in West Hollywood, we perform a detailed evaluation that may include 3D imaging, sleep studies, and airway assessments to determine whether surgical intervention is the right course of action.

Surgical Options for Sleep Apnea

When anatomical factors are contributing to worsening obstructive sleep apnea, there are a couple surgical options that may be considered.

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

This procedure involves removing or repositioning excess tissue from the soft palate, uvula, and throat walls to widen the airway. It is most effective for patients with obstruction in the soft palate region and can significantly reduce or eliminate apneic events.

Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)

MMA is one of the most effective surgical treatments for moderate to severe sleep apnea. It involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws forward, which increases the space behind the tongue and soft palate, expanding the airway. Studies show MMA has a success rate of over 90% in reducing apnea-hypopnea index (AHI).

Other Surgical Options

Dr. Salehani may also recommend procedures such as genioglossus advancement (tongue repositioning), nasal surgery, or soft tissue reduction, depending on the specific causes of airway blockage.

Why Choose Dr. David Salehani?

Dr. Salehani is a trusted name in oral and maxillofacial surgery in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the greater Los Angeles area. His extensive background in treating complex facial anatomy and sleep apnea makes him uniquely qualified to provide precise, effective surgical interventions.

As a surgeon who collaborates with sleep medicine physicians, pulmonologists, and ENT specialists, Dr. Salehani ensures that each patient receives a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to their sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep and Health

If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea and non-surgical treatments have failed, it may be time to explore surgical options. At Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery, we are dedicated to helping patients in West Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Beverly Grove, and throughout Los Angeles breathe more easily and sleep better.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. David Salehani today to find out if you’re a candidate for surgical intervention for sleep apnea. Your road to restful nights and improved health starts here.