Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery in Chicago, IL and Deer Park, IL
Restful sleep should leave patients feeling restored and ready for the day. For patients with obstructive sleep apnea, however, repeated interruptions in breathing can interfere with healthy sleep and affect how they feel well beyond the nighttime hours. When the position or structure of the jaws contributes to a narrowed airway, obstructive sleep apnea surgery can address the underlying anatomy and create more room for breathing during sleep.
At Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Stephen Martin brings advanced training in the jaws and facial structures to the surgical management of airway concerns. His special interest in orthognathic surgery is particularly relevant when evaluating how jaw position may contribute to obstructive sleep apnea.
To learn more about obstructive sleep apnea surgery in Chicago, IL, and Deer Park, IL, patients are invited to call (224) 623-0709 or request a consultation online today.
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What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, often shortened to OSA, is a sleep-related breathing disorder in which the airway repeatedly narrows or becomes blocked during sleep. As the throat muscles relax, the tongue and surrounding soft tissues can move backward. In some patients, jaw size or position can further limit the space available for airflow.
These interruptions can happen repeatedly throughout the night, preventing patients from getting the consistent, restorative sleep their bodies need. Common signs of obstructive sleep apnea can include loud snoring, pauses in breathing noticed by a partner, waking suddenly during the night, morning headaches, dry mouth, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Obstructive sleep apnea can have several possible causes, which is why proper diagnosis and evaluation are essential before considering surgery. For patients whose facial or jaw anatomy contributes significantly to airway obstruction, surgical treatment may provide an opportunity to address the structural problem itself.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery?
Obstructive sleep apnea surgery refers to surgical procedures designed to create a more open and stable airway during sleep. The appropriate approach depends on where the airway is narrowing and what anatomical structures are contributing to the obstruction.
For certain patients, this may involve maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), a type of corrective jaw surgery in which the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both are repositioned forward. Advancing the jaws also brings attached soft tissues forward, creating additional space behind the tongue and soft palate and helping reduce airway obstruction.
This is not the appropriate treatment for every patient with sleep apnea. Dr. Martin carefully considers the patient’s facial anatomy, jaw position, bite, airway, previous treatments, and sleep apnea diagnosis when determining whether an oral and maxillofacial surgical approach should be considered.
What Are the Benefits of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery?
For appropriately selected patients, sleep apnea surgery can address an anatomical source of airway obstruction rather than simply managing symptoms during sleep.
Creates More Airway Space
Advancing the jaws can increase the amount of room available behind the tongue and other soft tissues.
Addresses Structural Airway Narrowing
For patients whose jaw anatomy contributes to OSA, surgery addresses an underlying physical factor associated with airway obstruction.
Supports More Consistent Breathing During Sleep
A more open airway can reduce the repeated obstruction that characterizes obstructive sleep apnea.
May Reduce Sleep Apnea Severity
Successful surgical treatment can meaningfully improve sleep apnea measurements in properly selected patients.
Can Improve Daytime Well-Being
When sleep quality improves, patients may notice improvements in concerns such as daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or difficulty concentrating.
Provides a Long-Term Structural Change
Unlike therapies that must be used each night, corrective jaw surgery permanently changes the position of the skeletal structures contributing to the airway.
How Does Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery Work?
Obstructive sleep apnea surgery begins with determining where and why the airway is becoming restricted. Sleep study findings, medical history, imaging, bite alignment, jaw position, and facial and airway anatomy all contribute to surgical planning.
When maxillomandibular advancement is appropriate, the upper and lower jaws are carefully repositioned forward. Because the tongue and several soft tissues of the throat are connected to these skeletal structures, moving the jaws forward can also move these tissues away from the back of the airway. The jaws are then stabilized in their new positions, so they can heal with the airway and bite carefully considered as part of the surgical plan.
This relationship between breathing, jaw position, bite, and facial anatomy is one reason an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is particularly well suited to evaluate surgical options involving the jaws. Dr. Martin completed a four-year oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and Rush University Medical Center, ultimately serving as Chief Resident. His background includes a special interest in orthognathic surgery and experience in both outpatient and hospital environments.
Who Is a Candidate for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery in Deer Park, IL?
Surgery is generally not the first or only treatment considered for obstructive sleep apnea. Some patients manage OSA effectively with CPAP therapy, oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or other approaches. Surgery becomes particularly relevant when anatomy is contributing significantly to airway obstruction or when other treatment options have not provided an appropriate solution.
Potential candidates may include patients who:
- Have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea through appropriate sleep testing
- Have jaw or facial anatomy contributing to a restricted airway
- Have moderate to severe OSA that warrants additional treatment
- Have difficulty achieving adequate control with nonsurgical treatment
- Have a jaw relationship that may benefit from corrective jaw surgery
- Are healthy enough to undergo a significant surgical procedure
A surgical consultation is only one part of the evaluation. Obstructive sleep apnea often requires collaboration among several healthcare professionals, and Dr. Martin considers the patient’s existing diagnosis and treatment history when determining whether maxillofacial surgery may have a role.
Schedule a Consultation
From wisdom teeth to complex facial procedures, Dr. Stephen Martin delivers precise, compassionate surgical care designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence. We invite you to schedule your consultation by calling (224) 623-0709 or completing our convenient consultation form.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery Process at Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore in Chicago, IL
Surgery for sleep apnea is a significant decision, particularly when corrective jaw surgery is being considered. At Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore, patients are given time to understand what is contributing to their condition, why surgery may be recommended, and what treatment would involve.
The Sleep Apnea Surgery Consultation
The process begins with a detailed evaluation. Dr. Martin reviews the patient’s medical and sleep apnea history, examines the teeth and jaws, and evaluates available imaging and diagnostic information. Additional imaging or coordination with other providers may be needed to develop a complete understanding of the airway.
Dr. Martin places particular emphasis on patient education. His consultation style includes thorough explanations and visual aids so patients can understand what is happening in their bodies rather than feeling as though medical information is simply being presented to them.
Planning Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery
If corrective jaw surgery is appropriate, careful planning determines how the jaws should be repositioned while accounting for the airway, bite, facial balance, and long-term stability.
Depending on the patient’s bite and jaw relationship, orthodontic care may also be part of the treatment process. Dr. Martin explains how each phase fits together, so patients understand the complete plan before surgery.
The Surgical Procedure
Obstructive sleep apnea surgery involving maxillomandibular advancement is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Martin carefully repositions the planned portions of the upper and lower jaws and stabilizes them in their new positions.
Moving the jaws forward increases space within the airway while maintaining careful attention to bite alignment and facial balance. Because this is a more involved surgical procedure, it may be performed in an appropriate operating room setting rather than as a routine office procedure. Dr. Martin’s practice performs most procedures in an outpatient office setting, while larger cases may be performed in an operating room.
Follow-Up and Healing
Follow-up care is an important part of the process. Dr. Martin monitors healing, jaw position, bite, and overall recovery while providing guidance on diet, oral hygiene, and gradually returning to normal activities.
His approach emphasizes active communication after surgery, so patients continue to feel cared for rather than being left to navigate recovery on their own. This commitment to communication and follow-up is a central part of the practice philosophy.
Before & Afters
Anesthesia for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery
At Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore, patient comfort and safety are central considerations when planning any surgical procedure. Corrective jaw surgery for obstructive sleep apnea is a more involved operation, so anesthesia planning differs from what patients may encounter with shorter office-based oral surgery procedures.
General Anesthesia
Maxillomandibular advancement and similar corrective jaw procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia, so patients remain fully asleep and comfortable throughout surgery. The patient’s breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and other important measures are closely monitored throughout the procedure.
Dr. Martin’s oral and maxillofacial surgery training includes anesthesia, and general anesthesia is one of his stated areas of special interest. He is also certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Advanced Trauma Life Support.
The exact surgical and anesthesia setting depends on the procedure and the patient’s individual needs. During the consultation and preoperative process, patients receive clear instructions explaining what to expect and how to prepare.
Recovery After Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery
Recovery after corrective jaw surgery takes time, and patients are supported throughout each stage of healing. Swelling, facial tightness, jaw stiffness, and soreness are expected during the early recovery period and gradually improve.
Nutrition is particularly important while the jaws heal. Patients begin with an appropriate modified diet and gradually progress as directed by Dr. Martin. Careful oral hygiene is also necessary to keep the mouth clean while protecting the surgical areas. The practice’s postoperative protocol emphasizes a soft food diet, diligent oral hygiene, head elevation, and external cold application for facial swelling.
Patients should expect to take some time away from work, school, exercise, and other regular activities. Bone healing continues well beyond the initial recovery period, and changes related to swelling and facial appearance continue to settle with time.
Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Martin to evaluate healing and make sure recovery is progressing appropriately. Sleep apnea itself also requires follow-up. Patients may need repeat sleep testing after sufficient healing to objectively determine how breathing during sleep has changed.
How Much Does Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery Cost in Chicago, IL?
The cost of obstructive sleep apnea surgery varies considerably because treatment is planned around the individual patient. The specific operation, hospital or surgical facility, anesthesia, imaging, orthodontic care when required, and other aspects of treatment can all affect the overall cost.
Insurance coverage also varies. Because obstructive sleep apnea surgery may be performed to address a diagnosed medical condition, coverage considerations differ from procedures performed solely for cosmetic reasons. Patients should verify their individual benefits and requirements with their insurance carrier.
After Dr. Martin has completed an evaluation and determined what treatment is appropriate, patients can receive more specific information about the anticipated surgical plan and associated costs.
Why Choose Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery?
Obstructive sleep apnea surgery requires an understanding of more than the airway alone. The upper jaw, lower jaw, teeth, bite, tongue, facial skeleton, and surrounding soft tissues all influence one another. When treatment involves changing jaw position, the surgeon must consider how those structures will work together after surgery as well as how the change may affect facial balance.
Dr. Stephen Martin is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with advanced training in precisely this region of the body. After graduating with honors from Furman University, he earned his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, where he received recognition for outstanding performance in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He subsequently completed four years of oral and maxillofacial surgery residency training at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and Rush University Medical Center, serving as Chief Resident during his final year. Orthognathic surgery and general anesthesia are among his stated areas of special interest.
That surgical background is paired with a philosophy centered on how patients experience their care. Dr. Martin believes patients should feel cared for rather than simply treated. Consultations are intentionally thorough, questions are welcomed, and patients are not rushed, whether their concern is relatively straightforward or involves extensive facial surgery.
Our entire team shares this approach. Advanced techniques and modern technology matter, but so do communication, patience, and making sure patients understand why a particular treatment is recommended. For patients considering sleep apnea surgery, that combination of specialized surgical training and thoughtful care can make a complex process feel much more understandable.
Schedule an Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery Consultation in Chicago, IL
For patients whose jaw structure contributes to obstructive sleep apnea, corrective jaw surgery may offer an opportunity to address the anatomy that is restricting the airway and support healthier breathing during sleep.
To learn more about obstructive sleep apnea surgery in Chicago, IL, and Deer Park, IL, patients are invited to call Oral and Facial Surgery of the NorthShore at (224) 623-0709 or contact us online. Dr. Martin and the team can review the patient’s concerns, explain the role of oral and maxillofacial surgery, and help determine the appropriate next step.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery Chicago, IL – FAQs
Does everyone with obstructive sleep apnea need surgery?
No. Many patients successfully manage sleep apnea with CPAP, oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or other nonsurgical approaches. Surgery is generally considered when a structural problem contributes to airway obstruction and surgical correction is appropriate for the individual patient.
What is maxillomandibular advancement?
Maxillomandibular advancement, or MMA, is corrective jaw surgery that moves the upper jaw and lower jaw forward. This movement can increase the space behind the tongue and soft palate, helping create a more open airway during sleep.
How do patients know if their jaw is contributing to sleep apnea?
Jaw position is evaluated alongside sleep study findings, medical history, physical examination, and imaging. A smaller or retruded jaw can contribute to limited airway space in some patients, but sleep apnea can have several causes. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary before determining whether jaw surgery is appropriate.
Can sleep apnea surgery eliminate the need for CPAP?
Some patients experience enough improvement after surgery that their ongoing treatment needs change, but this cannot be promised beforehand. Results depend on the severity and causes of OSA as well as the procedure performed. Follow-up sleep testing provides objective information about the outcome.
Will sleep apnea surgery change facial appearance?
Moving the jaws changes the underlying facial skeleton, so some change in facial appearance is expected with maxillomandibular advancement. Surgical planning considers facial proportions and balance alongside airway improvement and bite function.
Will patients need braces before sleep apnea surgery?
Some patients undergoing corrective jaw surgery require orthodontic treatment before and/or after surgery to coordinate the teeth with the new jaw position. This depends on the patient’s existing bite and surgical plan.
Is sleep apnea surgery uncomfortable?
Patients remain under general anesthesia during corrective jaw surgery and do not experience the procedure itself. Swelling, tightness, stiffness, and soreness are expected afterward. Medication, dietary modifications, cold application, head elevation, and careful postoperative guidance are used to make recovery as manageable as possible.
When will patients know whether sleep apnea surgery worked?
Patients may notice changes in sleep or daytime symptoms as recovery progresses, but symptoms alone cannot determine the surgical outcome. Once sufficient healing has occurred, repeat sleep testing may be recommended to objectively evaluate breathing during sleep.
Why is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon appropriate for sleep apnea jaw surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive specialized surgical training involving the jaws, facial skeleton, teeth, bite, and surrounding structures. This background is directly relevant when obstructive sleep apnea treatment involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws. Dr. Martin’s additional interest in orthognathic surgery makes this an especially relevant area of his training.