Snoring

Snoring Treatment

The Pillar Procedure is a simple, safe, minimally invasive treatment for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Unlike other painful and invasive surgical procedures, the Pillar Procedure is a simple treatment that Dr. Colgan can perform in a single short office visit or in combination with other procedures. More than 36,000 people worldwide have been treated with the Pillar Procedure.

How it works

During the Pillar Procedure, three to five tiny polyester implants approximately the size of a dime are placed into the soft palate. Over approximately 8 – 12 weeks, the implants, together with the body’s natural healing response, add structural support to and stiffen the soft palate. This structural support and stiffening reduce the tissue vibration that can cause snoring and the palatal tissue collapse that can obstruct the upper airway and cause obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Pillar implants
The Implants
Pillar placement
Placement of the Implants

What happens during the procedure?

The Pillar Implants are placed using specially designed delivery tool under just local anesthetic, similar to going to the dentist. The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes total, but the implants are placed within just a couple of minutes. The procedure is performed right in the office and can sometimes be done on your first visit. There is no need for anyone to come with you or drive you home. Many patients return to work and normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Can I feel them?

Pillar implants are made of a material that has been used in implantable medical devices for more than 50 years. You cannot see or feel the Pillar implants, nor do they interfere with swallowing or speech. Patients resume normal diet and activities the same day of the procedure.

What are the results?

The Pillar Procedure has been shown to significantly reduce snoring and sleep apnea episodes by stiffening the soft palate. Some patients have reported noticeable results within weeks! The full results of the procedure take approximately 3 months to achieve. Problems such as daytime sleepiness and quality of life are improved along with the decrease in snoring intensity. In addition, it has high satisfaction ratings for both the patient and the bed partner.