UCSF Division of Sleep Surgery Mission
The mission of the Sleep Surgery Division is to deliver exceptional, patient-centered surgical care for sleep disordered breathing. We aim to advance the field through cutting-edge research, innovative surgical techniques, and comprehensive education. Our goal is to improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes for all patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- During sleep, the muscles of the upper throat relax, leading to collapse and blockage of the upper airway
- Obstruction of the airway reduces airflow and affects breathing patterns in sleep
- Disrupted breathing in sleep can be associated with snoring sounds
- Obstructive sleep apnea impacts sleep quality and can lead to daytime tiredness
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Daytime tiredness
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- A sleep study is performed to measure breathing at nighttime
- This can be done at home or in the sleep laboratory
- CPAP
- Oral Appliance
- Sleep Position
- Weight Management
- Surgery
- Sleep surgery is an option for someone who cannot use other forms of treatment for sleep apnea
- Surgery for sleep apnea is second-line therapy after trying CPAP
See Surgery for Sleep Apnea and Snoring
- Start with testing for sleep apnea with a sleep study
- Try using a non-surgical method for sleep apnea treatment (typically CPAP or an oral appliance)
- If non-surgical treatment does not work, obtain an evaluation with a sleep surgeon to discuss your options
- Evaluation for sleep surgery is individualized and depends on many factors about your sleep and medical history and exam
- You will need a copy of a recent diagnostic sleep study preferably done within the last 3 years (full study report)
- A referral from you primary care or sleep medicine provider
- Notes from your provider forwarded to the office
- Complete the sleep surgery intake form prior to your visit