Why Is the Pillar Procedure Used for Snoring and Sleep Apnea?

The Pillar Procedure is designed to help people experiencing:

  • Chronic snoring caused by a loose soft palate
  • Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

The Pillar Procedure stiffens the soft palate, which is believed to be a significant contributor for at least 80% of people who can’t stop snoring.1 Unsupported or excess tissue in the back of the mouth can collapse during sleep, putting pressure on the soft palate and making it vibrate. The following illustrations show what happens during normal sleep and during snoring:

Snoring problems are caused by sleep passages

Normal sleep. Relaxed tongue falls back slightly, but does not interfere with the airway.

Snoring. The soft palate and uvula elongate. This allows the relaxed tongue to partially block the airway. The uvula and soft palate vibrate during inhalation, creating the snoring sound.

 

The Pillar Procedure may be a great option for you if your soft palate contributes to your snoring.

See the Improvement

Watch a video about the Pillar Procedure sleep apnea treatment

View side-by-side images of an open airway (normal) and an obstructed airway that happens during snoring.

Watch Video