How Much Does a Somnoplasty Cost?
A Somnoplasty is a unique surgical method that helps reduce habitual snoring and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help tree three conditions: habitual snoring, chronic nasal obstruction, and obstructive sleep apnea.
A Somnoplasty is characterized by removing the tissues in the uvula and soft palate, and this, in turn, can drastically reduce, if not completely eliminate, the snoring problems by widening the airways and firming the throat and nasal airway muscles.
Over the years, the said procedure has proven to have significantly good results and high success rates, making it a common last resort for people who have had overwhelming snoring issues.
How much does a somnoplasty cost?
On average, a somnoplasty can cost a total of $1,700 and $5,200. This cost is generally for two treatments, and the cost will depend on the facility, the surgeon, how many treatments you need, your insurance and geographical location. In most circumstances, most patients will need two to three sessions to see desirable results.
According to Scripps Health in San Diego, a somnoplasty costs around $2,000 to $3,000 for two to four treatments.
The Department of Otolaryngology of the University of Virginia says the procedure would cost $1,700, which is inclusive for three treatments up front. However, this does not include the payment for other tests and procedures that may be done before and after the procedure.
With health insurance, you may be covered. Be sure to check with your insurance company to explore your options. If you are looking for a new policy or you are not insured, eHealthInsurance.com offers hundreds of choices.
Somnoplasty overview
A Somnoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure that takes around 30 to 45 minutes to complete. It is done under local anesthesia and is performed by a qualified ENT surgeon at an outpatient clinic. Unless you request it, it won’t require a general anesthesia. Instead, the doctor, before the procedure begins, will apply a topcial anesthesia or inject a shot.
During the procedure, you will be fully awake, sitting upright, and a gun-like device, referred to as a Somnus, will be inserted into the mouth. At the end of the device will be a small electrode, which will be inserted into the soft palate, and once inserted, the gun, which is attached to a radiofrequency generator will send a radio frequency through the electrode, effectively heating the tissues around the electrode. The electrical current will form a lesion, which will eventually turn into scar tissue, reducing the volume of the original tissue. To form the scar tissue, it can take three to six weeks.
What are the extra costs?
Pre-examination and tests
A Somnoplasty is commonly the last resort for those who have tried almost all nonsurgical procedures. Thus, it will not be suggested by the doctor unless you are fit for the procedure. To be certain, an examination or two will be performed before the procedure even begins. As per the University of Virginia School of Medicine, the initial examination will cost the patient $100, on average.
Aftercare and treatments
Like any surgical treatment, there may be some difficulties after the surgery. Depending on the patient’s body and tolerance, different supplements and/or medicine may be prescribed for a faster recovery. Most of the time, however, ibuprofen or a throat lozenge will be recommended to help reduce the swelling. In some rare circumstances, a hospital stay may be required if you’re older or are in poor health.
Tips to know:
Side effects may include pain, bleeding, infection at the site of surgery, numbness, a sore throat and/or dryness of mouth.
The immediate results after the surgery may actually make the snoring problem worse. The reason for this is that since the throat will be swollen, it may be narrower than it was originally. This should only last a couple weeks and should begin to improve.
Close to 80 percent of surgeons believe this procedure will significantly reduce their snoring for at least a year or more.
How can I save money?
A Somnoplasty is one of the many surgical procedures that can be performed to help reduce the chances of snoring. Talk with your doctor to explore all of the options and choose one that best fits your situation.
If you don’t have health insurance or it’s not covering the procedure, then you may want to ask about a cash discount. In some cases, an office may offer a discount if you were to pay the bill in full.
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