Pharyngoplasty (Uvulo-palatoplasty)

Hypertrophy of the tonsils and enlargement or loosening of the uvula and other soft tissues in the pharynx, may induce or worsen snoring and sleep apnoea.

Pharyngoplasty, (usually called uvulo-palatoplasty), is an operation which includes removal of the tonsils and shortening of the (usually long) uvula. Specially designed incisions at both sides of the uvula reduce the volume of the soft palate. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and lasts about one hour. The patient is discharged home on the next day on oral medication and special soft diet, similar to that of simple tonsillectomy. The patient is advised to avoid physical stress and exposure to high temperature for three weeks after the operation.