Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)

This is a procedure utilized by the surgeons at C/V ENT Surgical Group in addition to the pillar implant procedure or as a stand alone procdure in appropriate candidates as a treatment for snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea.  During this in-office procedure a rim of soft palate containing the uvula is removed using the laser.  In the past the laser used was the CO2 laser which was associated with significant pain for up to 2 weeks following the procedure.  However our physicians now utilize the cold laser or radiofrequency energy (aka Coblation) to obtain the same result with significantly less discomfort which consists of a mild to moderate sore throat for approximately one week.  Most patients state that the discomfort is manageable and after 24-48 hours they can resume normal activities, although a soft diet is recommended for one week.  In carefully selected patients this procedure as a stand alone procedure or in combination with the pillar implant procedure can provide tremendous improvement in snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.  Call our surgeons serving the Los Angeles and Thousand Oaks areas to schedule a consultation to discuss if you are an appropriate candidate for this revolutionary procedure.