The Dangers of Sleep Apnea and How Jaw Surgery Can Help
Sleep Apnea and Its Dangers
Aside from irregularities of the jaws and teeth, jaw (orthognathic) surgeries also correct obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which a person repeatedly stops breathing while sleeping. Specifically, it happens when muscles in the back of one’s throat temporarily relax and the airway becomes narrow or closed, momentarily cutting their breathing off. This momentary blocking of the airway can last 10 seconds or longer and exposes the individual to the following complications:
Cardiovascular problems - sudden drops in oxygen levels increase blood pressure and strain the body’s cardiovascular system, exposing one to the risks of high blood pressure and heart disease, stroke, and heart arrhythmias.
Daytime sleepiness and fatigue- lack of restorative sleep at night leaves one tired and sluggish during the day.
Disruptions in brain function - due to momentary pauses that prevent oxygen supply in the brain, people with sleep apnea are known to suffer from memory loss, poor concentration, and moodiness.
How Jaw Surgery Helps and How It’s Done
Maxillomandibular advancement surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, can be an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It moves the bones of the upper and lower jaw forward, thereby opening the one’s airway during sleep. Such a change often happens behind the soft palate and the tongue.
During a maxillomandibular surgery, the doctor makes incisions around the jaw and uses specialized tools to cut the bones. They then reposition and stabilize these bones with small plates and screws. Afterward, they make dissolvable stitches to close the patient’s gums.
What You Need To Know
Candidates for jaw surgery are screened through a consultation, a physical exam, and an x-ray. If you happen to be selected, you are expected to avoid the following 3 weeks after your operation:
strenuous physical activities
smoking
spitting
use of straws
drinking carbonated beverages
More specifically, you are not allowed to play contact sports within 12 weeks of healing. Only walking would be allowed after surgery as it would help you maintain normal breathing function and help promote oxygen flow in your body.
Depending on the nature of your job, you may need 3 to 6 weeks until you can return to duty. Even then, you are of course expected to be careful and stay cautious as your healing can take up to 12 weeks. Your PAPRAS surgeon will be the best person to discuss more details about what side effects and complications you can experience after the surgery and how they are best managed. It is advised you schedule a consultation with them as soon as possible so you know more about the surgery. Locate your nearest PAPRAS surgeon here.