As sleep apnea wears you down more and more, it’s tempting to look for a quick fix to the problem, something that will make snoring and nighttime waking a thing of the past.
That’s why so many sleep apnea patients are turning to laser procedures that are relentless with their promises — no anesthesia, immediate results!
But are these treatments all they’re cracked up to be?
Experienced otolaryngologists — including Dr. Marc Kayem — say that there are better methods, and Dr. Kayem has the experience and tools that will actually solve your sleep apnea for good.
The Downsides of Lasers to Treat Sleep Apnea
In the early 1990s, patients started turning to laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) to help reduce snoring. The procedure involves using a carbon dioxide laser to shorten the uvula hanging in the back of the throat, and also making small cuts on either side. As those cuts healed, the tissue stiffened, in theory leading to reduced snoring by opening up more of the airway.
Studies indicated that only a few patients had satisfactory relief from sleep apnea using this method and ultimately, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine disavowed the treatment.
Today, there are allergy clinics and dentists offering updated non-surgical laser treatments that aim to contract those soft palate tissues instead of removing them.
Dr. Kayem cautions against these procedures because they are more of a marketing gimmick than a permanent solution. The laser treatments typically only provide snoring relief for 6-12 months, and they will need touch-ups at future appointments.
Dr. Kayem has specialized in snoring solutions for more than 25 years, and he can perform the thorough examination needed to determine the exact cause of your problems.
Non-invasive Sleep Apnea Solutions That Work
After decades of performing successful snoring procedures on thousands of patients, Dr. Kayem is offering the most-up-to-date treatments, including:
ELEVOPLASTY
This breakthrough procedure lifts the soft palate, clearing the way for unobstructed breathing — and no snoring. The treatment can be performed by Dr. Kayem in one office visit in just about 10 minutes. The doctor makes three small holes in the soft palate and places three resorbable sutures.
You can expect a sore throat for a few days after the treatment, easily treated by over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients report a decrease in snoring in just 30 days.
RADIOFREQUENCY
This procedure stiffens the soft palate tissue that has a tendency to vibrate when you sleep, causing a snoring sound. RF can be performed by Dr. Kayem under local anesthesia in less than 20 minutes. The doctor delivers a low-power, low-temperature treatment through a needle-tip wand.
Palatal implants are used to treat snoring and less severe cases of sleep apnea. The procedure involves surgically implanting tiny, 18mm polyester rods into the upper palate of your mouth, stiffening the palate so the tissue is less likely to vibrate.
Note: The pillar procedure is currently unavailable, as the inserts used in the procedure are not being manufactured at this date.
Which Sleep Apnea Solution Is Best for You?
The causes of snoring and sleep apnea are individual to each patient, so Dr. Kayem will recommend procedures based on your unique case to get you sleeping easy again.
Dr. Kayem’s practice accepts many insurance plans and offers patient financing for any treatments not covered by insurance.
Laser snoring treatment, like ELEVOLPLASTY, can be effective for some patients. However, its success varies based on individual factors. Consulting with an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem can provide personalized recommendations for the best treatment options for your specific snoring concerns.
Is laser treatment for snoring effective?
Laser treatment for snoring, such as ELEVoplasty performed by Dr. Marc Kayem, is an effective method to address snoring by lifting the soft palate and reducing tissue vibration. This procedure, along with addressing turbinates and tongue tissue, offers personalized solutions for snoring and sleep apnea, leading to improved breathing and quality sleep.
What is the laser procedure to stop snoring?
Dr. Marc Kayem offers ELEVOPALSTY, a laser procedure where tiny rods are implanted in the soft palate to reduce snoring and improve breathing. This innovative method addresses individual snoring causes effectively for a restful night's sleep.
How expensive is NightLase?
NightLase pricing varies based on location, provider, and individual treatment needs. Typically costing around $1,000 to $3,000 per session, several sessions may be necessary for optimal results. Factors affecting NightLase cost include the extent of treatment required, the clinic's reputation, and any additional services bundled with the procedure. It's recommended to consult with a provider for accurate pricing information.
How much is laser treatment for snoring?
Laser treatment for snoring, such as Elevoplasty performed by Dr. Marc Kayem, varies in cost based on individual needs and factors. Prices can range from a few thousand to several thousand dollars, but the exact cost is determined during a consultation with Dr. Kayem based on the specific treatment plan required. Contact Dr. Kayem's office at (310) 777-7879 for pricing details.
Does laser treatment help snoring?
Laser treatment such as ELEVOLASTY can help snoring by stiffening the soft palate and clearing airways for better breathing. Dr. Marc Kayem, an experienced ENT specialist, performs this procedure effectively to address individual snoring and sleep apnea causes, providing long-lasting solutions for improved sleep quality.
Does laser treatment work for snoring?
Laser treatment for snoring, like ELEVOPALSTY, can be effective by targeting the soft palate or turbinate tissues to reduce snoring. However, its success varies based on individual cases, and consulting with an experienced ENT doctor is essential for personalized treatment recommendations.
What are the side effects of laser treatment for snoring?
Some possible side effects of laser treatment for snoring may include temporary sore throat, discomfort, swelling, or redness in the treated area. In rare cases, there could be changes in voice or difficulty swallowing. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to understand the specific risks associated with laser treatments for snoring.
What are the risks of NightLase?
NightLase risks may include sore throat, temporary discomfort, or mild swelling. In rare cases, tissue damage or scarring could occur. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for a personalized evaluation before undergoing NightLase treatment to mitigate potential risks.
What is the success rate of NightLase?
The success rate of NightLase, a laser treatment for snoring, varies. It can range from 60-70% effectiveness in reducing snoring and improving airway flow. Success depends on the individual's specific condition and response to treatment. Consulting with an experienced specialist like Dr. Marc Kayem can provide personalized insight into potential success with NightLase for your snoring issues.
Does NightLase actually work?
NightLase is a non-invasive laser treatment that aims to reduce snoring by tightening the tissues in the throat. While some patients report positive outcomes, the effectiveness may vary. Consult an ENT specialist like Dr. Kayem for personalized advice on sleep apnea treatments.
Does laser therapy work for snoring?
Laser therapy isn't typically used as a primary treatment for snoring or sleep apnea. While it may have some limited effects on specific tissues, its efficacy in addressing the underlying causes of snoring is debated. Consulting an ENT doctor like Dr. Marc Kayem for personalized advice is recommended.
Can laser on throat help snoring?
Laser throat treatments, like ElevoPlasty performed by Dr. Marc Kayem, can reduce snoring by stiffening tissue in the soft palate, tongue, and nasal passages. This procedure offers a non-invasive solution to address individual sleep apnea issues effectively.
What is laser snoring treatment?
Laser snoring treatment, also known as Elevoplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves lifting the soft palate to reduce snoring by opening the airway. By using laser technology, the procedure targets specific areas like the soft palate, turbinates, and excessive tongue tissue to alleviate snoring and improve breathing.
What is the best medical treatment for snoring?
The best medical treatment for snoring is Elevoplasty, a procedure that lifts the soft palate to alleviate obstruction in the airway, reducing snoring. Tailored interventions by an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem, focusing on individual needs, provide effective and lasting solutions for sleep apnea.
Does laser nose surgery help snoring?
Laser nose surgery, such as ElevoPlasty, can help with snoring by targeting the soft palate and other obstructions in the airway. This procedure stiffens tissues and reduces vibration that causes snoring, providing a long-term solution to sleep apnea. Consulting with an experienced ear, nose, and throat doctor is essential for personalized treatment recommendations.
Can laser help stop snoring?
Laser treatments can help stop snoring by targeting specific areas like the soft palate and tongue tissue to reduce vibrations and improve breathing. However, the effectiveness may vary based on individual causes of snoring. Consulting with an experienced ear, nose, and throat specialist like Dr. Marc Kayem can provide tailored solutions for long-term relief.
Does laser for snoring work?
Laser treatments for snoring, such as Elevoplasty, can be effective in addressing snoring and sleep apnea issues by targeting specific areas like the soft palate and tongue tissue. Dr. Marc Kayem specializes in individualized solutions to alleviate snoring problems with proven non-invasive procedures.
How long does laser therapy last for snoring?
Laser therapy for snoring typically provides long-lasting results, with many patients experiencing significant improvement for years after the procedure. The exact duration can vary based on individual factors, but maintenance treatments may be needed periodically to sustain the benefits over time.
Are multiple sessions required for NightLase?
Multiple sessions are typically required for NightLase treatment to achieve optimal results. The number of sessions varies based on individual needs and severity of sleep apnea or snoring. It is common to undergo a series of treatments for lasting improvement in symptoms and overall sleep quality.
Is anesthesia required for laser snoring treatment?
Anesthesia is typically not required for laser snoring treatment. The procedure is minimally invasive, usually performed in-office under local anesthesia or sedation. Laser treatment targets specific areas in the throat to reduce snoring, providing a quick and effective solution without the need for general anesthesia.
Who is eligible for laser snoring procedures?
Individuals suffering from snoring caused by soft palate issues or nasal obstructions may be eligible for laser snoring procedures. Evaluation by an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem will determine candidacy based on the specific causes of snoring in each patient.
Can snoring return after laser treatments?
Yes, snoring can return after laser treatments for sleep apnea as underlying causes may persist. It's essential to seek advice from an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan for long-term success.
Are there non-laser alternatives for snoring?
Dr. Marc Kayem offers non-laser alternatives for snoring, such as Elevoplasty, a procedure that lifts the soft palate to improve breathing. These treatments are effective in addressing the root cause of snoring and sleep apnea. Consulting with an ENT like Dr. Kayem can provide personalized solutions for a quiet night's sleep.
Is laser snoring treatment covered by insurance?
Laser snoring treatment, such as Elevoplasty, may not be covered by insurance as it's considered a relatively new and elective procedure. Patients should consult their insurance provider to determine coverage, but often traditional treatments are more likely to be covered.
How quickly do patients recover from NightLase?
Patients typically recover quickly from NightLase, experiencing minimal downtime. Most individuals resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure, with no need for extended recovery periods. This non-invasive treatment option allows for swift recovery and minimal disruption to daily life.
What lifestyle changes complement laser snoring treatment?
Lifestyle changes that complement laser snoring treatment include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, sleeping on your side, staying hydrated, and practicing good sleep hygiene. Additionally, quitting smoking, reducing allergens in the bedroom, and managing stress can also support the effectiveness of laser snoring treatment.
How does laser treatment compare to CPAP for snoring?
Laser treatment for snoring, like ElevoPlasty, offers a non-invasive alternative to CPAP. While CPAP involves wearing a mask during sleep, ElevoPlasty surgically implants rods to stiffen the soft palate, targeting the root cause of snoring. Both methods vary in effectiveness and invasiveness, with laser treatments showing promising results for many patients.
Are there long-term studies on laser snoring treatment efficacy?
Long-term studies on the efficacy of laser snoring treatment are limited. While initial results may show improvement, the long-term effectiveness is not well-documented. Consult with an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem for personalized advice on sustainable snoring solutions.
Can laser treatment for snoring worsen sleep apnea?
Laser treatment for snoring alone can potentially worsen sleep apnea by not addressing underlying issues. Consulting an experienced otolaryngologist like Dr. Marc Kayem is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment to effectively manage both snoring and sleep apnea.
