Can Jaw Surgery Treat Sleep Apnea?
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may wonder if jaw surgery is an option. Here is the answer.
Yes β orthognathic surgery is one of the most effective long-term treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) when the airway obstruction is caused by jaw structure. The procedure is called maxillomandibular advancement (MMA).
- How it works:
- Both the upper and lower jaws are moved forward
- This pulls the soft tissue of the airway forward β including the tongue, soft palate, and throat muscles
- The airway space is permanently widened
- The result is a more open airway that does not collapse during sleep
- Success rates:
- MMA has an 85β95% success rate for treating sleep apnea
- Many patients are completely cured and no longer need CPAP
- Success is measured by a 50%+ reduction in AHI (apnea-hypopnea index)
Who Is a Candidate
- Jaw surgery for sleep apnea is typically recommended for:
- Patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea (AHI over 15)
- Patients who cannot tolerate CPAP
- Patients with a recessed lower jaw or midface
- Patients with a narrowed airway on imaging
- Non-smokers in good general health
Comparison with CPAP
| Factor | CPAP | Jaw Surgery (MMA) |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | High (when used) | Very high |
| Daily use | Every night | One-time procedure |
| Long-term compliance | Low (many stop using) | Permanent |
| Recovery | None | 4β8 weeks |
| Cost over time | Ongoing | One-time |
Clinical Guidance
Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery moves both jaws forward to open the airway and is one of the most effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea. It offers a permanent solution for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP or have sleep apnea related to jaw position.