Why do we snore?
The back of our mouths is where our tongue and throat meet the soft tissue of the palate and uvula. As our airways narrow, the pressure increases, and this higher pressure is enough to vibrate the soft tissue surrounding it. It is this vibration that manifests itself as snoring.
What’s so bad about snoring?
How the Vein and Skin Clinic can help
Our snoring treatment utilises radiofrequency waves emitted from an Ellman Surgitron to improve nasal air flow and stop the soft palate from flapping excessively. Radiowave treatment performed at the Vein and Skin Clinic causes tissue tightening and shrinkage to help reduce snoring.
Low temperature radio frequency energy is delivered to the soft palate muscles. This induces the palate to stiffen by scarring the palatal muscles. The mucosal surface over the palate is normally unaffected.
Under local anaesthetic (like a dental anaesthetic), the operation is largely painless, and takes around 30 minutes. Following the minor operation, one can carry on normal activities, such as working, or eating, with only a few restrictions.
Some people may need an additional procedure where nasal obstruction is contributing to the snoring. Using the same apparatus, the inside of the nose can also be treated with radiowave surgery.
Follow up is recommended at 6-8 weeks. After follow up, further treatment can be carried out if necessary.
Will I stop snoring for good?
Unfortunately only a few patients achieve 100% control of snoring, although the majority of patients do have useful improvement. At present there is no single operation or device that is guaranteed to 'cure' a snorer.
Sometimes a combination team approach gives the best outcome. This may include using orally inserted devices; having a consultation with an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Specialist, as well as having radiowave treatment to tighten the palate and improve nasal airways.
Call Vein and Skin today for a good night’s sleep
Contact us today with any questions you may have about our snoring treatments. Our friendly and experienced staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.