The overall surgical goal is to reduce the length and reshape the soft palate and uvula. Patients with enlarged tonsils can be helped by the reduction of the upper portion of the tonsils with the laser. Each session takes about ten minutes, and the full treatment is spread over to three to five sessions each spaced about four weeks apart. The treatment endpoint is significant reduction or elimination of snoring as reported by the patient or the bed partner. Usually there is no bleeding, and speaking is unaffected.
Patients go right back to normal activity.
The biggest advantage to laser treatment, however, is that it works. An immediate reduction in snoring is common, with significant improvement usually occurring after the second session. Despite the effectiveness of LAUP for relieving snoring, some patients may subsequently develop obstructive sleep apnea. Presenting symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include restless sleep, daytime sleepiness, early morning headaches, and irritability. Patients who develop these symptoms must return for evaluation.