Sleep Apnea Jaw Surgery
Improving breathing and sleep quality through airway-focused jaw advancement.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway collapses during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. In some patients, the structure or position of the jaws contributes to airway narrowing.
Jaw advancement surgery — often called Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) — is one of the most effective surgical treatments for OSA.
When Is Jaw Surgery Recommended for Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea surgery may be considered when:
- CPAP is not tolerated
- The airway is narrow due to jaw position
- Dental, orthodontic, or imaging evaluation shows structural obstruction
- Lifestyle changes and non-surgical measures have not resolved symptoms
- Symptoms such as daytime fatigue, snoring, or poor sleep persist
Jaw position strongly influences how open or narrow the airway becomes at night.
How Jaw Surgery Helps Improve Breathing
The procedure works by moving the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) forward. This advancement:
- Increases the space behind the tongue
- Stabilizes the airway during sleep
- Reduces airway collapse
- Improves airflow and oxygen levels
- Helps reduce or eliminate snoring
MMA surgery is considered the gold standard surgical treatment for selected patients with moderate to severe OSA.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery for Sleep Apnea
- Significant reduction in apnea episodes
- Improved sleep quality
- Better daytime alertness and energy
- Reduction or elimination of snoring
- Long-term airway stability
- Improved facial balance in some patients
- Durable and predictable results
For many patients who cannot tolerate CPAP, this procedure offers a long-lasting solution.
Steps in the Treatment Process
1. Evaluation
Detailed sleep study review, airway analysis, and jaw assessment.
2. Treatment Planning
Imaging and digital planning to determine the amount of advancement needed.
3. Surgery
Performed under general anesthesia. Both jaws are repositioned forward and fixed with titanium plates for stability.
4. Recovery
Swelling gradually reduces over weeks. A soft diet is recommended initially.
5. Follow-Up
Regular monitoring ensures proper healing and airway improvement.
Why Choose Dr. Thomas George Arayathinal for Sleep Apnea Surgery?
- Nearly 40 years of surgical experience
- Expertise in airway-focused jaw surgery
- Detailed evaluation and planning
- Strong track record of successful MMA procedures
- Patient-centered and supportive care
- Clear explanation of expectations and outcomes
Book Your Sleep Apnea Assessment
📞 Phone Numbers
- Phone 1: +971 54 792 6657
- Phone 2: +971 50 262 4958
- Phone 3: +800 23 ext. 4004 / 3953 / 3958
📧 Email Addresses
- WhatsApp 1: +971 54 792 6657
- WhatsApp 2: +971 50 262 4958
📍 Location
Burjeel Medical City
Mohamed Bin Zayed City
Abu Dhabi, UAE
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