At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson helps patients reclaim restful sleep through advanced, personalized care. A board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, he ensures everyone receives safe and effective treatment.
How Jaw Surgery Helps with Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when soft tissues in the throat collapse and block the airway during sleep. Jaw surgery expands the airway by physically moving the jaws forward. This:
- Reduces airway obstruction
- Improves airflow during sleep
- Lowers apnea-hypopnea index (AHI)
- Can reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP
For patients with severe sleep apnea who haven’t responded to non-surgical treatments, MMA is one of the most effective long-term options.
Who Is a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for jaw surgery if:
- You have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
- CPAP therapy and oral appliances haven’t worked or aren’t tolerated.
- Imaging reveals a small or recessed jaw, which contributes to your condition.
- Your sleep specialist or ENT recommends surgical intervention.
At OFSIH, we conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure that jaw surgery is the right fit for you. Our team considers your medical history, sleep study results, airway imaging, and personal treatment goals.
What to Expect After Jaw Surgery
For many people with sleep apnea, jaw surgery offers a long-term or even permanent solution. By enlarging the airway structure itself, MMA addresses the source of the obstruction.
Studies, including a meta-analysis published by JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, show significant reductions in AHI after surgery, with sustained results over time. While individual outcomes vary, most patients experience lasting relief and an improvement in sleep quality.
Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation in Houston
Don’t let sleep apnea continue to impact your health and quality of life. Contact Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston today to learn if jaw surgery is right for you. Get in touch with us at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson. Better sleep starts here.
