The mobility of the soft palate contributes to both snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).  When the palate vibrates during inspiration, it can cause snoring.  When the palate collapses or blocks the upper airway during inspiration, it can lead to OSA.  The Pillar Implant System adds structural support to and stiffens the soft palate, making it less likely to vibrate or collapse.  This procedure is a minimally invasive office based procedure that is highly effective in the treatment of both snoring and mild to moderate OSA.

For patients having this procedure done, our office will provide detailed post procedure instructions.  These include soft diet instructions for five days, with the use of both antiseptic mouth rinses and antibiotic medications.  Prescription analgesics (pain killers) are provided to be taken as needed.

The Pillar Procedure was FDA approved in 2004.  Currently, over 30,000 patients worldwide have undergone this procedure.  If you are interested in learning more about this procedure please have your referring physician fax a referral to our office with this request.  Our fax number is 416-591-1162.

Here is a video of the Pillar Procedure being performed on “The Doctors.”

The soft palate is often involved in both snoring and sleep apnea (see below).  While there are many approaches to deal with the palate, my preferred procedure for anatomically appropriate patients is the Pillar Procedure, which involves inserting 3-5 small implants under local anesthesia.