Tongue Ablation in Bakersfield
At Bakersfield Sinus Center, there are many treatments available to patients who suffer from sleep apnea. One of these treatments is tongue ablation, which we offer to men and women living in Porterville, Bakersfield, CA and surrounding communities.
What is Tongue Ablation?
Tongue ablation is a treatment option for patients suffering from sleep apnea. Although sleep apnea has several causes, one possible cause is that the tongue blocks air flow through the throat when sleeping. Tongue ablation uses radiofrequency energy to shrink the size of the tongue near the throat. As a result, it will be less likely to fall backwards into the throat or obstruct air flow. At Bakersfield Sinus Center, tongue ablation is one of our preferred sleep apnea treatments because it is less invasive than most surgical techniques. As a result, patients can enjoy a shorter recovery period.
Why Choose Satish R. Vadapalli, MD for Your Tongue Ablation Treatment?
Dr. Vadapalli specializes in treatments that involve the nose, mouth, and their related areas. With over two decades of experience, he is an ideal candidate for performing tongue ablation treatments and related procedures. No matter what treatment you are receiving, you can always expect the attentive and personalized care for which we are known.
What is the Tongue Ablation Treatment Like?
Tongue ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed with local anesthesia. Once the anesthesia is administered, a fine needle will be inserted into the tongue. This needle is small enough to prevent any noticeable scarring from forming. With the needle in place, we will begin to deliver radiofrequency energy to the tissue. The heat causes the tongue to contract, tightening the tissue and reducing symptoms of sleep apnea.
During the treatment, we may target the back of the tongue, the underside of the tongue, and even the sides of the tongue. In most cases, this process only takes about one hour.
What is the Tongue Ablation Recovery Like?
Since the tongue ablation treatment is minimally invasive, the recovery process is fairly short. Patients can expect effects such as swelling or pain within the first few days following their treatment. These effects should begin to subside shortly, with most effects resolving within a week.
We recommend using ice to help minimize pain and swelling during the initial recovery period. It may be difficult to eat and drink following your procedure, but it is important to stay hydrated and consume food whenever possible.
What Results Can I Expect from the Tongue Ablation Treatment?
Most patients begin to notice results from their tongue ablation treatment within a few weeks of their procedure, especially as the initial recovery period has passed. Many patients enjoy a reduction in symptoms of sleep apnea that facilitate a safer and higher-quality sleep.
To learn more about the tongue ablation procedure, contact us today at Bakersfield Sinus Center. We are proud to offer this and other sleep medicine services to patients living in Bakersfield, Porterville, and the nearby areas of California.
