Diathermy / Laser Assisted Palatoplasty (DAUP/LAUP)

This procedure has been used in the treatment of snoring for the last 20 years. It can be done either using a Laser or Diathermy machine, but the procedure is exactly the same.

It involves two cuts in the soft palate, on either side of the uvula, and trimming off a variable degree of the uvula itself. Sometimes the tonsils are removed at the same time (if large and contributing to the snoring).

The operation is carried out under general anaesthesia as a daycase. It may be done in combination with other procedures (eg. nasal surgery, if required). The success rate is quoted at 70-80% at three months. Weight gain, high alcohol intake or tissue laxity due to ageing may cause snoring to return. The post-operative period is very painful. It lasts approximately 10-14 days. Since general anaesthesia is required, admission and theatre fees make this the most expensive treatment option for snoring, costing approximately £2000- £2500. Insurance companies do not pay for this type of surgery, but will usually pay a large share of it, if it is being done at the same time as another operation (eg. nasal surgery).