AIRLIFT for Sleep Apnea: CPAP Alternative in Houston, TX

AIRLIFT is a simple and effective treatment for our obstructive sleep apnea patients. Part of our goal at Texas Sinus & Snoring in Houston is comprehensive care. This means finding all the best solutions for our patients. AIRLIFT is one of those solutions.

Table of Contents

What Is AIRLIFT Sleep Apnea Treatment?

AIRLIFT™ is a simple and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and an alternative to CPAP. There’s no hose, no mask, and no oral appliance to wear.

It’s an intuitive approach to hyoid and tongue suspension that provides immediate and lasting relief. It opens and stabilizes the airway.

AIRLIFT is easy to implant, minimally invasive, and covered by most insurance carriers. The AIRLIFT procedure can be performed in as little as 30 minutes in an outpatient procedure. It’s also adjustable. We’re here to discuss if AIRLIFT is the right solution for your sleep apnea.

AIRLIFT Procedure

Anesthesia

The AIRLIFT procedure starts with anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the treatment. This allows our doctor to perform the procedure safely and precisely in our office without discomfort.

Small Incision

Next, the doctor makes a small incision under the chin to access the structures that support the airway. AIRLIFT is a minimally invasive solution, so the approach is direct and avoids unnecessary disruption to surrounding tissue.

Placing the AIRLIFT System

During the surgical procedure, specialized instruments are used to place the AIRLIFT system. The goal is to reposition and support the lower airway structures that contribute to sleep-related obstruction.

Hyoid Suspension

The core of AIRLIFT is hyoid suspension, which gently stabilizes the hyoid bone and tongue base. This prevents these structures from collapsing backward during sleep, a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea.

Airway Stabilization

Once the system is secured, it works to keep the airway open and stable throughout the night. By maintaining proper positioning, AIRLIFT supports consistent airflow and more natural breathing without masks, hoses, or oral devices.

Your Initial Consultation

The main goal of your first visit is to determine the root cause of your sleep apnea, including whether airway collapse contributes to your symptoms. Dr. Cilento is a board-certified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist who will carefully review your medical history, symptoms, and prior sleep studies to determine the most accurate diagnosis. Using advanced evaluation techniques, he will analyze your airway and gather key information to ensure that every treatment recommendation is personalized and based on a thorough assessment.

Recovery After AIRLIFT Implantation

Recovery after AIRLIFT implantation is typically straightforward and carefully guided by your care team. The goal during this phase is to support healing while allowing the implant to do its job, keeping the airway open. Patients are closely monitored to ensure proper healing and minimize potential health risks, and our team remains committed to providing clear instructions and ongoing support throughout the recovery process. Recovery Timeline:

Day of procedure: You return home the same day, with mild soreness focused around the treatment area.
Days 2-5: Most patients experience manageable discomfort and swelling that improves within a few days.
Follow-up period: Activity gradually increases as healing progresses, and the implant continues to support normal sleep and breathing patterns.

Is AIRLIFT Right For Me?

AIRLIFT might be the solution to your sleep apnea. The first step is always a consultation with one of our physicians. You can call Texas Sinus & Snoring at 346-413-9313 to schedule your appointment or fill out the form to the right and we’ll reach out to you.

What Are the Benefits of AIRLIFT?

Effectively treats OSA
Provides relief from sleep apnea symptoms
Can help reduce snoring
Starts working right away

It can work in conjunction with other sleep apnea procedures
No physical limitations after implantation
Short post-op recovery time
Is covered by most insurance carriers

Cost of AIRLIFT Treatment in Houston, TX

In Houston, the cost of AIRLIFT treatment typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on factors like your specific sleep study results, insurance coverage, and any additional evaluations needed. Before moving forward, it’s important to review the provider’s credentials to understand their experience with AIRLIFT and sleep apnea care. Your initial consultation can also help clarify which portion of the cost is covered by insurance and what you can expect to pay out of pocket.

Relieve Your Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms Today!

If you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, effective treatment can help you achieve more restful sleep and restore your overall quality of life. AIRLIFT offers a proven option for patients seeking relief without relying on nightly devices or traditional surgery. With guidance from our doctor, a recognized leading specialist in sleep apnea care, you can take the next step toward better health.

Contact our office to learn how this treatment may help you reclaim your sleep, restore your energy, and feel more refreshed every day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is AIRLIFT more comfortable than CPAP?

Many patients find AIRLIFT to be more comfortable than using a CPAP machine. AIRLIFT provides internal support rather than an external device, so there is no need to wear anything at night. Because the system works by stabilizing the hyoid bone, it helps keep the airway supported without masks or hoses, creating a more natural sleep experience. Patients often report improved comfort and a more convenient solution for long-term sleep apnea management.

Does AIRLIFT provide permanent results?

AIRLIFT is designed to provide long-lasting improvement for patients with obstructive sleep apnea, though individual results can vary based on the underlying condition. By maintaining the airway opening during sleep, many patients feel consistent symptom relief over time. Your doctor will evaluate whether AIRLIFT is an appropriate long-term solution for your specific needs.