Surgery vs CPAP?

Hi all, I have sleep apnea and cannot sleep on my back. I tried the CPAP and it just made things worse. I felt like I was sufficating even though air was blowing in my nose. I have found out I have a very long soft palate. My only option is surgery to remove some of that palate. I lost my favorite ENT due to an insurance change and I am in search of another. She does a very conservative surgery and doesn't remove ALL of it. If it doesn't work, she then goes back in for free to remove more. Any one living in Northern VA have a great ENT doctor who accepts Cigna Open Access POS insurance? Paula

I have the same problem. Have you tried a dental device? It is called a Mandibular Dental device. It is a mouth piece that clamps over your upper and lower teeth. It is like a retainer. You turn with a key every once in a while. Eventually it pushes the jaw out to keep your airway open. May be something to look into before surgery. My Dr. said the surgery is not a guarantee. I have a very narrow palette so my tongue slides back. The CPAP didn't help because of my sinuses. It's rough. I actually was thinking about asking about the surgery too but my Dr. wants to try Xyrem first.

Hi, yea alot of doctors say that, but my old doctor said that females who are at weight tend to do best. I don't know if I can deal with something in my mouth while sleeping. I am such a light sleeper but when I see the dentist, I will inquire. Thanks

It is a little rough with the mouth piece. I actually take Ambein with it so I fall asleep right away. This way I don't notice the mouth piece is in. Good luck with everything.

I have been using c-pap for 8-9-10? years. A gril friend I was seeing had the operation 4 yrs before. I happened to be reading the paper in the next roomwhile she slept. The apnea was back! She got new c-pap and was told by doctor many had quit doing operations because they didn't work in the long run. Sorry. Patrick

Hi Patrick, There are always exceptions with everything. Not everyone has success with wls either. It is always a game of chance, but it is one I am willing to take to get some sleep. I don't know what the medical situation was with your girl friend so I cannot comment on why it didn't work for her nor would I try since I am not a doctor. Thanks for your feedback. Paula