Timely and proper treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea can prevent the occurrence of life-threatening health problems including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes

1. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
Proper Treatment for Sleep Apnea can reduce
Risk of Life-Threatening Health Problems
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder that
occurs when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of
the throat, resulting in blockage of upper airway. In the U.S.,
OSA is estimated to affect over 20% of the adults and 5-10% of
children. It is known to be the reason for a variety of life-threatening
health problems including daytime sleepiness,
narcolepsy, impaired memory and concentration, high blood
pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. A recent study from the
University of California San Diego links sleep apnea to impaired
exercise capacity. An early marker of higher risk for stroke and
heart attack is a measure of exercise capacity - the maximum
oxygen a person burns during vigorous exercise. Proper and
timely treatment for the condition can reduce the risk of these
life-threatening health issues.
Common Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
· Heavy snoring
· Daytime sleepiness
· Awakening headache
· Fatigue

2. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
· Restless/fragmented sleep
· Anxiety with breathlessness
· Behavior problems
Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Mandibular distraction can successfully treat the condition. It
involves increasing the size of the jaw bone. An incision is made
inside the mouth to cut the mandible or lower jaw bone on each
side. The first stage of the procedure involves creating an
osteotomy (break) in an abnormal bone and the attachment of a
device known as a distractor on both sides of the break. The
distractor is adjusted till it gets stretched to fill with the new
tissue. New tissue forms a new bone over the next two months.
The distraction procedure is complete when the new bone has
formed and the front of the jaw has acquired its proper position.
The distractor and its connecting pins are removed after the new
bone gets hardened.
Advantages of Mandibular Distraction
· Improvement in breathing
· Weight gain
· Improved brain function
· Superior academic performance
· Improved behavior along with gastroesophageal reflux and
pulmonary hypertension
Plastic surgeons specializing in reconstructive surgery can
provide effective treatment for this disorder. These surgeons work

3. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
as part of a multidisciplinary team representing dental and
medical disciplines. Therapies prescribed may include behavior
modification, weight loss, oral appliances, skeletal and soft tissue
surgery or a combination of these.
Leading plastic surgery centers in Texas provide effective
treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. At a reputable
AAAASF-accredited center, patients can expect the highest level
of coordinated management, and safe and comprehensive
treatment.