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How does the Pillar Procedure differ from other treatments for snoring?
The Pillar Procedure is a minimally invasive procedure performed in the office under local anesthesia. Many other treatments require multiple procedures or in an operating room under general anesthesia. The Pillar Procedure does not involve chemical agents, heating or removing tissue resulting in minimal discomfort and resuming a normal diet and activities the same day as the Pillar Procedure.
Is the Pillar Procedure for me?
Success for the Pillar Procedure depends on multiple factors including the physical examination such as height, weight, size of the tonsils/ tongue/ uvula and neck. Dr. Johnson will thoroughly examine you and determine if you are a good candidate for the Pillar Procedure.
Is the Pillar Procedure permanent?
The Pillar Procedure implants are designed to be permanent and provide a long-lasting effect. The implants are incorporated into the surrounding tissues of the soft palate causing a stiffening and resulting in improved airflow and less snoring.
How big is the Pillar implant?
The tiny woven Pillar Procedure implant is approximately 18mm (approximately 0.7 inches) in length and 2mm(0.08inches) in diameter. The inserts are made from a polyester material that has been used for decades in implantable medical products.
How are the implants placed into the soft palate?
Dr. Johnson will use a specially designed delivery device to insert the three to five tiny implants into the soft palate under local anesthesia. The Pillar Procedure does not require removal of any soft palate tissue.
Will I notice the implants in my palate?
You should not be able to feel or see the implants in your soft palate. A small percentage of patients feel like "something is stuck in there" after the procedure. This sensation is temporary and will go away after a few days.
Will I experience difficulty swallowing or a change in my voice?
There have not been any reported cases of changes in speech or difficulty swallowing after the Pillar Procedure.
What are the complications associated with the Pillar Procedure?
The risk of complication is extremely low as the Pillar Procedure does not involve destroying or removing soft palate tissues. There have have been NO reported adverse events from the Pillar Procedure. More than 25,000 Pillar Procedures have been performed worldwide and the reported complication rate is less than 1%. The most frequently reported complication is a partial extrusion of the implant. The implant is easily removed by Dr. Johnson and another implant will be inserted at no cost after several weeks.
How much does it cost?
Dr. Johnson’s fee for the Pillar Procedure and follow up visits is $2,250. 100% financing is available with affordable payment plans on a monthly basis. Health insurance companies do not consider snoring as a medical disorder and fees are NOT covered as a medical expense.
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