What Is Laser Snoring Treatment (Somnoplasty)?
Somnoplasty is a minimally invasive method that applies controlled radiofrequency energy to the soft palate and uvula, tightening the tissue to reduce snoring. It can be performed under local anaesthesia in an outpatient setting, without requiring general anaesthesia or major surgery. Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç, experienced in snoring treatment in Ankara, considers this method for suitable patients once sleep apnea has been ruled out.
Symptoms / Who Is a Candidate
- Patients with snoring only, without sleep apnea.
- Mild-to-moderate snoring originating from the soft palate.
- Patients seeking a less invasive solution than CPAP or surgery.
- Cases where soft palate laxity is identified on examination.
Somnoplasty is not a first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe sleep apnea; in such patients, the condition must first be clarified with a sleep study (polysomnography).
Diagnostic Methods
It must first be clarified whether the snoring occurs together with sleep apnea or in isolation. An endoscopic examination assesses possible anatomical causes of obstruction in the nose, soft palate and throat; a sleep study is requested in suspicious cases.
Treatment Process
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia by delivering controlled radiofrequency energy to the soft palate and takes about 15-20 minutes. For a lasting effect, 1-3 sessions spaced a few weeks apart are usually recommended. In the weeks following the procedure, the tissue gradually tightens, reducing vibration and therefore the sound of snoring.
Recovery Process
Patients can generally return to daily activities the same day; mild sore throat and swallowing discomfort lasting a few days may occur. The final outcome is generally assessed within 4-6 weeks, after several sessions and completion of tissue healing.
Why Choose Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç?
Correct patient selection is key to success in snoring treatment. Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç always rules out the possibility of sleep apnea before recommending somnoplasty; at his clinic in Çankaya, Ankara, he manages the process together with the patient from diagnosis to post-treatment follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does somnoplasty treat sleep apnea?
No, somnoplasty is primarily intended for isolated snoring complaints. Patients diagnosed with sleep apnea should consider CPAP or different surgical options; this distinction is clarified with polysomnography.
Is the procedure painful, is general anaesthesia required?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia; general anaesthesia is not required. A mild pressure sensation may be felt during the procedure, and mild sore throat lasting a few days may follow.
Is the result permanent?
The effect can vary depending on tissue structure and possible loosening over time; some patients may need repeat sessions at certain intervals. Durability is assessed at follow-up visits.
How many sessions are required?
1-3 sessions spaced a few weeks apart are sufficient for most patients. The number of sessions is personalised based on the severity of the snoring and the response to treatment.
When can I return to normal life after the procedure?
Since the procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, patients can generally return to daily activities the same day. Only mild throat discomfort lasting a few days is expected.
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