Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPP is a procedure done to treat obstructive sleep apnea. In this procedure, the excess tissue from the uvula and soft palate are removed or repositioned in order to shorten the uvula.
The tonsils and adenoids can be removed in the procedure, and the uvula, soft palate and pharynx can typically be repositioned. The uvula is folded forward and connected to part of the soft palate of the mouth, removing the obstruction of air.
The idea is that by removing and repositioning tissues in the back of the throat, the airway will be larger, and it will allow the patient to breathe with more ease.
