Inspire Procedure in Houston

Sleep Apnea Treatment: Inspire

Unlike CPAP machines, an Inspire implant works internally to address the root cause of obstructive sleep apnea. The Inspire device is placed inside your body to provide a more comfortable and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

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How Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Affects Breathing During Sleep

When you sleep, the muscles in your airway and tongue naturally relax. For individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, this relaxation causes the tongue to block the airway, making it difficult to breathe. When the airway is obstructed, oxygen levels drop, prompting the brain to wake you up so you can take a breath. This interrupted sleep pattern can occur multiple times throughout the night, preventing restful sleep.

How the Inspire Implant Works

The Inspire device is designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. A small implant is placed beneath the skin, connected to the nerve that controls your tongue. When you breathe, the device sends gentle pulses to move your tongue, preventing it from blocking the airway. This allows you to breathe naturally throughout the night without needing a mask or hose.

What is the Inspire Procedure?

The Inspire procedure is an outpatient surgery that typically takes about 90 minutes. Your surgeon will make two small incisions: one near the collarbone to place the implant and another below the jawline to connect the device to the nerve that controls tongue movement. The procedure is safe, minimally invasive, and performed by an Inspire-trained specialist at Texas ENT Specialists in Houston.

What are the Benefits of the Inspire Procedure?

No mask or hose required: Unlike CPAP machines, Inspire provides relief without external equipment.
Natural breathing during sleep: Gentle pulses open your airway by moving your tongue out of the way.
Minimally invasive procedure: The surgery involves only two small incisions.
Quick recovery: Most patients can return to regular activities within a few days.
Long-lasting results: Inspire effectively reduces sleep apnea symptoms, improving sleep quality and overall health.

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Healing and Recovery

Most patients require only over-the-counter pain medication after the procedure and can resume light activities within a few days. Our ear, nose, and throat specialist will guide you on when to return to work or resume regular activities. Recovery is generally quick and uneventful—with excellent results.

Why Choose Texas ENT Specialists in Houston?

At Texas ENT Specialists in Houston, our experienced team offers the latest sleep apnea treatments, including the Inspire procedure. With advanced training and a patient-focused approach, we provide expert care to relieve patients suffering from sleep apnea. Our goal is to help you achieve long-lasting relief from sleep apnea and improve your quality of life with the Inspire implant.

Inspire FAQ

What is the Inspire Procedure?

The Inspire Procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that places a small device inside your body to treat obstructive sleep apnea by moving your tongue to keep your airway open during sleep.

How long does the Inspire Procedure take?

The procedure typically takes around 90 minutes and is an outpatient surgery, allowing patients to go home the same day.

Is the Inspire device noticeable?

No, the Inspire device is placed under the skin and not visible. It works internally to help manage sleep apnea without noticeable external equipment.

How soon can I return to normal activities after the procedure?

Most patients can resume light activities within a few days and return to work soon after. Your doctor will provide specific guidance for your recovery timeline.

Who is a good candidate for the Inspire Procedure?

The Inspire Procedure is ideal for patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who have not had success with CPAP machines or other treatments. A consultation with your ENT specialist will determine if you’re a candidate.