In-Office Procedures | Uvulectomy

For many patients your uvula or the "bell" in the back of the middle of your throat may be enlarged or elongated. Many in-office techniques cannot address the uvula. For instance, the pillar implants are only placed into the soft palate and may not be placed into the uvula. For these circumstances, Dr. Pasha may recommend a uvulectomy or removal of the uvula. This may be performed in the office using a little local anesthesia or in the operating room while you are asleep. For those who also have a “sagging” soft palate, a portion of the soft palate may also be removed with the uvula. Removing the bottom portion of the soft palate causes a scar to form on the bottom portion of the soft palate. This may act as a hammock to reduce the chances of further progression of the soft palate from progressive sagging.

Removing the uvula and/or soft palate causes a sore throat for 7-10 days and the discomfort may extend a few weeks afterwards. You will be given pain medications and antibiotics to control the discomfort. Dr. Pasha requires you to take time off work or school while you heal from an uvulectomy. Uvulectomies are low risk procedures with a potential of bleeding. Again, no guarantees can be made regarding the success of this procedure, however, studies have shown that removal of the uvula can result in a decrease or elimination of snoring and reduction of gasping from sleep apnea.