Skip to main content
Sleep Surgery
Otolaryngology | Head and Neck Surgery
Patient Resources
Preparing For Your Visit
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Surgery for Sleep Apnea
Research & Education
Contact Us
For Referring Physicians
(415) 353-2757
Dedicated to improving your sleep health
(415) 353-2757
The UCSF Division of Sleep Surgery provides expertise on surgery for obstructive sleep apnea and snoring
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
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
How do I know I have OSA?
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
Unrefreshing sleep
Daytime tiredness
Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
How is obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed?
A sleep study
is performed to measure breathing at nighttime
This can be done at home or in the sleep laboratory
What treatments are available?
CPAP
Oral Appliance
Sleep Position
Weight Management
Surgery
What is sleep 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
Am I a candidate for surgery?
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
What do I need to obtain an appointment with the sleep surgery center?
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
See
Prepare for Your Visit