Airlift Procedure | Texas ENT Specialists

AirLift Procedure in Houston

The AirLift procedure is a surgical solution designed to help patients with sleep apnea find long-lasting relief. This treatment works by opening and stabilizing the upper airway to prevent breathing obstructions. Unlike traditional sleep apnea surgeries, AirLift is minimally invasive. It does not involve cutting the jawbone or removing parts of the tongue base, resulting in quicker recovery times and less post-procedure discomfort.

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How AirLift Works

AirLift uses specially designed sutures and anchors to elevate and secure the hyoid bone closer to the jaw. This positioning helps keep the airway open during sleep. The procedure is performed through a small incision under the jaw. One implant is placed beneath the chin, and another is positioned behind the chin to suspend the hyoid bone, preventing airway collapse. This allows for easier breathing and relief from sleep apnea symptoms.

AirLift for Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea affects millions of adults across the United States, disrupting sleep and causing long-term health issues. AirLift offers a minimally invasive solution to help people with obstructive sleep apnea breathe more easily and experience more restful hours of sleep, reducing the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

What is the AirLift Treatment Like to Experience?

The AirLift procedure is a straightforward and minimally invasive patient experience. The treatment begins with a local anesthetic to numb the area under your jaw, ensuring you remain comfortable. Once the anesthesia takes effect, a small incision is made, and the AirLift device is gently inserted to move the hyoid bone closer to the jaw. This helps open up the airway, allowing for better breathing during sleep.

The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour and does not require large incisions or bone removal. You may feel slight pressure during the treatment, but discomfort is minimal. Most patients can return home shortly after the procedure and resume normal activities within a few days.

At Texas ENT Specialists in Houston, we prioritize your comfort and care, ensuring that the AirLift procedure is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, from preparation to recovery, to help you achieve long-lasting relief from sleep apnea.

Why Choose Texas ENT Specialists in Houston?

At Texas ENT Specialists in Houston, we offer advanced treatments like the AirLift procedure to help patients achieve lasting relief from sleep apnea. With a team of highly trained, experienced physicians, we provide personalized care, and our providers and support staff are exceptionally friendly, caring, and dedicated to ensuring every patient has a positive experience. Our commitment to your long-term health and well-being ensures you receive the highest quality care from diagnosis to recovery.

We have proudly served the Houston community for over 20 years, offering comprehensive care for a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. With multiple convenient locations across the greater Houston area, we make accessing expert ENT care easy. From personalized treatment plans to our dedicated team of top-rated physicians, Texas ENT Specialists in Houston is dedicated to helping you achieve long-term relief for an improved quality of life.

AirLift FAQ

What is the AirLift procedure?

The AirLift procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for sleep apnea. It works by repositioning the hyoid bone closer to the jaw to open the airway, reducing obstruction and improving breathing during sleep.

How long does the AirLift procedure take?

The procedure typically takes less than an hour. It’s performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to return home the same day with minimal recovery time.

Is the AirLift procedure painful?

The procedure involves only minor discomfort due to local anesthesia. Patients may feel slight pressure during treatment, but the pain is minimal, and most have a very smooth, uneventful recovery.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure. Recovery is quick, with minimal downtime required.

Who is a good candidate for AirLift?

Ideal candidates for AirLift are individuals with obstructive sleep apnea who want a less invasive alternative to traditional surgeries. Consulting an ENT specialist will determine if AirLift is right for you.