Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) Surgery
Sleep More Soundly With MMA
Breathe Better With Maxillomandibular Advancement Surgery in Norfolk
Maxillomandibular advancement surgery in Norfolk, VA opens up the airway and helps people with sleep apnea breathe more freely at night. MMA surgery is the primary surgical sleep apnea treatment offered at Eastern Virginia OMS and lets patients reduce or stop CPAP use.
During MMA surgery, the upper jaw, lower jaw, and chin are moved forward. This creates more room for air to pass through the throat and helps prevent the airway from closing during sleep. MMA has the highest success rate among surgical treatments for sleep apnea, making it an important option for people who need lasting airway improvement.
Visit Eastern Virginia OMS to learn how MMA surgery can support better breathing and more restful sleep.
Find Out How MMA Surgery Addresses Sleep Apnea
Maxillomandibular advancement surgery opens the airway by moving the upper jaw, lower jaw, and chin forward. This added space can reduce airway blockages that cause obstructive sleep apnea and interrupt healthy sleep.
MMA surgery addresses the structure of the airway instead of relying on a device worn during sleep. By creating more room for airflow, the procedure can improve breathing throughout the night. It may be especially helpful for patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea or those who have trouble using a CPAP.
Eastern Virginia OMS carefully plans this orthognathic surgery around your airway and needs. Schedule a consultation to learn more about maxillomandibular advancement surgery in Norfolk, VA.
Opens the Airway
By moving the jaws and chin forward, the surgery creates more space for airflow during sleep You won't experience the frequent breathing interruptions that affect your rest.
Offers a High Success Rate
MMA has the highest success rate among surgical treatments used for obstructive sleep apnea.
Lessens CPAP Dependence
Surgical treatment may allow you to stop using a CPAP machine or reduce your need for it. You won't have to worry about a mask, tubing, or noise disturbing you or your partner.
Improves Your Health
Lessening sleep disruptions doesn't just support deeper, more refreshing rest. It also lowers your risk for conditions linked to sleep apnea, including high blood pressure and stroke.
Improves Alertness
Better sleep may help improve your daytime energy, focus, and overall quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maxillomandibular Advancement for Sleep Apnea
Q What is maxillomandibular advancement for sleep apnea?
Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) is a surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that moves the upper jaw, lower jaw, and chin forward. Moving these structures creates more room behind the tongue and soft tissues. The larger airway can make it easier for air to move freely and reduce blockages while a person sleeps.
Q How does MMA surgery help treat obstructive sleep apnea?
MMA surgery helps treat obstructive sleep apnea by increasing the amount of space available for airflow. Advancing the upper and lower jaws and chin moves attached tissues forward as well. This change can help keep the airway from becoming narrow or blocked during sleep, which may reduce breathing pauses and other sleep apnea symptoms.
Q Who may be a candidate for maxillomandibular advancement surgery?
Maxillomandibular advancement surgery may be an option for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, especially when airway anatomy contributes to the condition. It may also be considered when CPAP is difficult to use or other treatments have not provided enough improvement. A detailed evaluation helps determine whether MMA is appropriate for each patient.
Q Can MMA surgery help me stop using CPAP?
MMA surgery may reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP for some people by correcting structural problems that restrict airflow. The goal is to create a larger, more stable airway that stays open during sleep. Results vary, so follow-up testing is important before changing or stopping CPAP or another prescribed sleep apnea treatment.
Q What happens during maxillomandibular advancement surgery?
During maxillomandibular advancement surgery, the upper jaw, lower jaw, and chin are carefully moved forward to enlarge the airway. The bones are placed in planned positions and secured so they can recover properly. Surgical planning is based on the patient's facial structure, bite, and airway needs to support breathing and function.
Q How successful is MMA surgery for sleep apnea?
MMA surgery has the highest success rate among surgical treatments for obstructive sleep apnea. By moving both jaws and the chin forward, the procedure can create a meaningful increase in airway space. Individual results depend on factors such as the severity of sleep apnea, airway anatomy, overall health, and the amount of advancement needed.
Q How long is recovery after maxillomandibular advancement surgery?
Recovery after maxillomandibular advancement surgery happens gradually over several weeks. Swelling, soreness, and temporary changes in chewing are common early in recovery, and patients may need a soft or modified diet. Many daily activities can resume as recovery progresses, while complete bone recovery takes longer and varies from person to person.
Q How are the results of MMA surgery for sleep apnea checked?
The results of MMA surgery for sleep apnea are commonly checked with follow-up visits and a sleep study after recovery. Sleep testing can measure breathing pauses, oxygen levels, and other signs of sleep apnea. These results help show how well the airway has improved and whether CPAP or other nighttime treatment is still needed.
