4 Common Questions About Nose Surgery for Snoring

Snoring is a common issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and other health issues, not just for the snorer but also for their partners. One of the potential solutions that people explore is nose surgery for snoring. But what exactly does this involve, and is it effective?

1. How Does Nose Surgery for Snoring Work?

Snoring occurs when airflow through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed during sleep. This obstruction causes the tissues in the throat to vibrate, producing the characteristic snoring sound. Several factors can contribute to this obstruction, including nasal congestion, a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates or structural abnormalities in the nose.

What Will Nose Surgery Do?

Nose surgery for snoring aims to improve airflow through the nasal passages, thereby reducing or eliminating the obstruction that causes snoring. Here are some of the common procedures involved:

• Septoplasty
  This surgery corrects a deviated septum, which is a common cause of nasal obstruction. By straightening the septum, airflow through the nose can be significantly improved.
• Turbinate Reduction
  Turbinates are structures within the nose that can become enlarged and block airflow. Reducing their size can help clear the nasal passage.
• Nasal Valve Repair
  The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal passage. Weak or collapsed nasal valves can restrict airflow and contribute to snoring. Surgery can strengthen these valves, improving airflow.
• Rhinoplasty
  While often performed for cosmetic reasons, rhinoplasty can also address structural issues that contribute to snoring, such as a crooked nose or other deformities.

The goal of these surgeries is to enhance airflow and reduce snoring. Many patients report significant improvements in their sleep quality and a reduction in snoring intensity following surgery. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that results can vary depending on the underlying cause of the snoring and individual anatomy.

2. What Is the Procedure and Recovery Like?

Nose surgery for snoring is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The procedure will depend on the patient’s needs, the diagnosis and the surgeon’s recommendations.

• Septoplasty
  Septoplasty is performed through the nostrils to correct a deviated septum. The surgeon makes an incision in the septum and removes or realigns the bone and cartilage to straighten it. This improves airflow and can alleviate symptoms like sinusitis and rhinitis.
• Septorhinoplasty
  This combines septoplasty with rhinoplasty to address both functional and cosmetic issues. The surgeon removes and reshapes bone and cartilage to straighten the septum and correct external nasal deformities. This helps improve breathing and enhances the nose’s appearance.
• Turbinate Reduction
  Turbinate reduction surgery reduces the size of the turbinates to improve airflow. The surgeon removes excess tissue from the turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that can become enlarged and obstruct breathing, without impairing their function.
• Nasal Cautery
  Nasal cautery involves cauterising specific blood vessels inside the nose to stop or prevent nosebleeds. The doctor uses a silver nitrate stick or an electrocautery device to seal the targeted blood vessel, effectively controlling bleeding.
• Excision of Lesion
  The removal of skin lesions like tags, warts, or cysts from the nose is performed using a local anaesthetic. The ENT specialist surgically excises the lesion, sometimes using skin grafts to minimise scarring, especially in sensitive areas.
• Packing of Nasal Cavity
  Nasal packing involves placing gauze or a sponge into the nasal cavity to control bleeding, often used after surgeries like rhinoplasty. The ENT doctor numbs the nose with a local anaesthetic before packing the nasal cavity to apply pressure and stop the bleeding.
• Removal of Foreign Body
  Foreign objects are removed from the nose using tools like forceps, hooked probes, or suction. The ENT doctor uses a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort during the procedure, which safely extracts the object lodged in the nose.
• Referral for CPAP
  CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask that provides continuous positive airway pressure to keep airways open during sleep. It is used to treat obstructive sleep apnea and snoring caused by narrowed or blocked airways. An ENT doctor assesses and refers patients for CPAP treatment.

Recovery Process

Recovery times can vary based on the extent of the surgery and individual healing rates. Here are some general stages of recovery:

• First Week: Expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You may need to wear a nasal splint for the first week to support the nose as it heals.
• Second to Fourth Week: Swelling and bruising should gradually subside. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within two to four weeks, although you should avoid strenuous activities during this period.
• Three to Six Months: Full healing can take several months, during which time the improvements in breathing and reduction in snoring will become more noticeable. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor your progress.

3. Is Nose Surgery for Snoring Right for Me?

Nose surgery for snoring can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have structural issues within the nose that contribute to their snoring. You might be a good candidate if you have:

• A deviated septum
• Enlarged turbinates
• Collapsed nasal valves
• Chronic nasal congestion that doesn’t respond to other treatments

Before deciding on surgery, it’s crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or a plastic surgeon who specialises in nasal surgery. They will assess your nasal anatomy, review your medical history, and determine if nose surgery for snoring is appropriate for you.

Considering Alternatives

While nose surgery can be highly effective, it’s not the only solution for snoring. Other treatments and lifestyle changes might also help, such as:

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A device that keeps airways open during sleep using steady air pressure.
• Oral Appliances: Devices worn in the mouth to keep airways open.
• Weight Management: Losing weight can reduce fatty tissues in the throat, which can help decrease snoring.
• Positional Therapy: Changing your sleep position to prevent snoring.

4. What If Snoring Doesn’t Go Away After My Surgery?

While nose surgery for snoring can significantly improve airflow and reduce snoring for many people, it’s important to acknowledge that results can vary. There are several reasons why snoring might persist even after surgery.

• Other Anatomical Factors: Snoring can be caused by various anatomical issues beyond the nose. For instance, soft palate vibration, enlarged tonsils, or a large tongue can also contribute to snoring. If these factors are not addressed, snoring may continue despite nasal surgery.
• Weight and Lifestyle: Weight gain and certain lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption and smoking, can exacerbate snoring. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding substances that relax the throat muscles can help reduce snoring.
• Sleep Position: Your sleeping position can influence snoring. Sleeping on your back, for example, can cause the tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of your throat, obstructing airflow and causing snoring.
• Incomplete Healing: Post-surgery healing can take time, and swelling may temporarily worsen snoring before it gets better. It's essential to give your body adequate time to heal and follow all postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon.

Next Steps to Consider

If your snoring persists after surgery, there are several additional steps you can take:

1. Follow-up with Your Surgeon: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to discuss your concerns. They can reassess your nasal structure and determine if any further intervention is needed.
2. Consult a Sleep Specialist: A sleep specialist can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify other potential causes of your snoring. They may recommend a sleep study to observe your breathing patterns during sleep.
3. Explore Additional Treatments: Depending on the findings, additional treatments such as CPAP therapy, oral appliances, or positional therapy may be suggested to help reduce snoring.
4. Consider Lifestyle Changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on reducing snoring. Focus on maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and establishing a regular sleep routine.

Make an appointment at the Harley Street ENT Clinic to discuss the treatment options with an experienced specialist.