UPPP surgery? [Update]

[Doozer]

I have been through the ringer medically with OSA. I have moderate apnea, and use a cpap as much as I can. My issue is that I choke so much I end up ripping it off in my sleep. I also now make these “snorting sounds” when I breathe during the day and awake. My health is going down the toilet: weight gain, severe fatigue, depression, elevated sugars.....I finally saw ENT. Suggested UPPP but also mentioned my tongue is large. Im definitely not interested in tongue surgery, but Im so desperate to feel even a little better so I can want to do things again. Any updated info is greatly appreciated!

[SuperSleeper]

I'm sure others will chime in, but you may want to read this post:

http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-...17#pid1117

[Illorum]

UPPP is a nightmare surgery - not only does it rarely make a significant difference, but it can also make you unable to tolerate nasal PAP therapy afterwards. UPPP has fallen out of favor and most ENTs do lateral pharyngoplasty as its much less mutilating.

If you are really truly done with OSA/CPAP then consider maxillomandibular advancement, as it supposedly has a 90-100% cure rate, or the DOME and EASE procedures from Stanford. ENTs can rarely cure sleep apnea - maxillofacial surgeons are the ones to go to for sleep apnea (unless you have an obvious cause like big tonsils, polyps, adenoids, etc)

[Doozer]

So there is one minor issue with the jaw surgery: Ive already had 7 in my teen years due to tmj...Im total metal on both sides. There is no messing with my jaw at this point

[Doozer]

I had the UPPP surgery last Friday. Right now is the night between day 4-5 and Im about to lose my mind. This has been the most excruciating pain I could have ever imagined, if not worse. I cannot swallow my own spit. Feels like razors in my throat and ears combined with a fire feeling. Ended up at hospital last night and required significant amounts of morphine to get me to a manageable point. When does this get better?
Before anyone starts, I know the surgery has mixed results. My doc felt very confident on what he did. And for me I didnt have all of the options. Im just beyond frustrated with the pain!

[jaswilliams]

Doozer did you read the other posts and links recommending not having UPPP surgery ? I guess you thought the ENT Surgeon would fix everything, I don’t think surgery alone will be the solution and it comes with its own issues

[OpalRose]

Well, I guess you didn't heed the advice given here.  I can't I manage that kind of pain, but hope in the long run it will help you.  

When you are fully healed, you may still need Cpap therapy, please keep us informed so that we can help if needed.

I'm merging your two threads for continuity, as it may help others.

[Sleeprider]

You are at the peak of it now, and it should start easing. I guess these days no one wants to prescribe opioid pain medications, but you may want to call your doctor and explain you spent the night in a hospital due to intolerable pain, and get what you need to get through the first week.