Planning for Sleep Surgery Recovery
Sleep apnea surgery can be life-changing, but recovery requires preparation. This guide covers what to expect for the most common procedures in Singapore.
UPPP Recovery (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)
UPPP is the most common sleep apnea surgery. It removes excess tissue from the soft palate and throat.
Days 1-3: The Toughest Part
Pain Level: Moderate to severe (7-8/10) Think severe sore throat — like the worst tonsillitis you've ever had, times two.
What to expect:
- Significant throat pain
- Difficulty swallowing (even saliva)
- Pain radiating to ears
- Possible nausea from anesthesia
Pain management:
- Regular paracetamol (as prescribed)
- Ice chips
- Cold water sips
- Throat sprays
- Some surgeons prescribe stronger pain medication
Days 4-7: Gradual Improvement
Pain Level: Moderate (5-6/10)
- Throat pain starts to ease
- Swallowing becomes easier
- White patches in throat (normal healing — not infection)
- Voice may sound different (temporary)
Diet progression:
- Day 1-3: Ice chips, cold water, popsicles
- Day 4-7: Smoothies, yogurt, congee, soft noodles
- Avoid: Spicy, acidic, crunchy foods
Weeks 2-3: Near Normal
Pain Level: Mild (2-3/10)
- Most patients return to work (desk jobs)
- Can eat most soft foods
- Voice returning to normal
- Avoid strenuous activity
Week 4 and Beyond
- Full recovery
- Can eat normally
- Resume exercise
- Sleep study at 3 months to assess results
MMA Surgery Recovery (Maxillomandibular Advancement)
MMA is more invasive but highly effective. Both jaws are moved forward.
Hospital Stay: 2-3 Days
Immediately after surgery:
- Jaws may be banded together (rubber bands, not wired shut)
- Significant facial swelling
- Numbness in face (may persist for months)
- Liquid diet only
Week 1-2: Peak Swelling
What to expect:
- Face looks very swollen (like a chipmunk)
- Bruising around eyes and neck
- Numbness continues
- Jaw stiffness
- Liquid diet (blended everything)
Tips:
- Sleep elevated (30-45 degrees)
- Ice packs religiously
- Stay hydrated
- Take all medications as prescribed
Weeks 3-6: Gradual Recovery
- Swelling reduces significantly
- Soft food diet begins
- Jaw exercises (rubber bands off for some hours)
- Can return to desk work (week 4-6)
- Still no exercise
Months 2-6: Full Recovery
- Normal diet (careful with hard foods)
- Return to full activity
- Numbness gradually improves (can take 6-12 months)
- Final sleep study at 6 months
MMA-Specific Concerns
Numbness: Most common side effect. The chin and lower lip may feel numb for months. 90% recover sensation, but it can take up to a year.
Bite changes: Your bite may feel different. Orthodontic adjustment sometimes needed.
Appearance: Your face will look different (often considered an improvement — more defined jawline).
Inspire Implant Recovery
Inspire is minimally invasive compared to MMA.
Day of Surgery
- Outpatient or 1-night stay
- Three small incisions (chest, neck, rib area)
- Mild to moderate pain at incision sites
Week 1-2
- Avoid raising arm above shoulder (stimulation lead)
- Pain well-controlled with paracetamol
- Return to desk work within days
Week 4: Activation
- Device is turned on and programmed
- Settings adjusted over several visits
- Sleep study at 2-3 months
Long-Term
- Device lasts 10-12 years (battery)
- MRI compatible (with precautions)
- No external equipment needed
General Recovery Tips
Before Surgery
Prepare your home:
- Stock up on soft foods
- Get ice packs
- Arrange time off work (1-4 weeks depending on surgery)
- Set up comfortable sleeping area (elevated)
Stop certain medications:
- Blood thinners (as advised by surgeon)
- Aspirin
- Fish oil and supplements
Stop smoking:
- Ideally 4 weeks before
- Smoking significantly impairs healing
After Surgery
Pain management:
- Stay ahead of pain — take medications on schedule
- Ice is your friend
- Don't be a hero — use prescribed pain meds
Diet:
- Hydration is crucial
- Protein helps healing (protein shakes)
- Avoid alcohol
- No hot foods initially (increases swelling)
Activity:
- Walk gently (prevents blood clots)
- No exercise for 2-4 weeks (varies by surgery)
- No heavy lifting
Warning signs (call your doctor):
- Fever above 38.5°C
- Bleeding that doesn't stop
- Severe worsening of pain
- Difficulty breathing
Cost Considerations
Medical Leave
Plan for:
- UPPP: 2 weeks
- MMA: 4-6 weeks
- Inspire: 1 week
Follow-Up Visits
Multiple follow-ups needed:
- Post-op check (1 week)
- Wound review (2 weeks)
- Sleep study (3-6 months)
Insurance
Most surgeries require pre-authorization. Recovery costs (medications, supplements) are usually out-of-pocket.
Conclusion
Sleep surgery recovery requires patience and preparation. The discomfort is temporary, but the benefits — better sleep, more energy, improved health — last for years.
Talk to your surgeon about what to expect for your specific procedure, and plan ahead for a smooth recovery.