AirLift Procedure

AirLift is a surgical procedure designed to help patients with sleep apnea find relief. This treatment is designed to open and stabilize upper airway obstruction. AirLift™ is less invasive than traditional sleep surgeries and does not require any cutting of the jaw bone or excising of the tongue base. This allows patients to recover more quickly and have minor discomfort after the procedure.

Find your ENT Request Appointment

How AirLift Works

AirLift uses sutures and suture anchors to elevate and suspend the hyoid bone closer to the jaw. These have been specifically designed to help patients with sleep apnea. The tension created by the implant keeps the air pathways flowing freely. The procedure is performed using an incision under the jaw. Then one implant is inserted beneath the chin, while the other is inserted behind the chin. The implants will be moved into the proper place so that the hyoid bone is suspended closer to the jaw.

AirLift for Sleep Apnea

Recent studies show that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects an estimated 12 million adults in the United States alone. AirLift can help those with sleep apnea breathe easier and sleep better.

Benefits of AirLift Procedure

More minor discomfort than other sleep surgeries
Immediate relief
Long-lasting results
Minimal recovery
No cutting or removal of bone
Relief from sleep apnea and symptoms such as snoring

Meet Your AIRLIFT Procedure Practitioner Manish Wani, MD FACS

View Bio

With 15 convenient locations across the greater Houston area, we’re never far away.

Find your ENT Schedule appointment

About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists offers tailored treatments and surgery for a wide selection of ear, nose, and throat conditions. Since 1997 we have been striving to help the patients of Houston obtain long-term relief. We have 15 office locations across Texas to make it as convenient as possible for you to visit our locations. We have set ourselves apart in ENT care by providing our patients:

Personalized Treatment

Each appointment and treatment is customized to fit your needs, as we understand treatments should be tailored to the patients, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Top-Rated Physician Network

Each of our offices is staffed with a network of experienced providers who have been fellowship-trained and are experts in their area of ENT care.

Centers of Excellence

Our locations are designed to offer our patients a seamless experience from the moment they schedule their appointment to the moment we’re saying goodbye.

Continuity of Care

Our providers always help patients with the goal of achieving long-lasting relief, never looking for only short-term solutions to the problem.

Who Is a Candidate for AirLift?

Candidates for AirLift are those with sleep apnea who have been unable to find relief from other treatment methods. This includes those who have tried a CPAP machine or other devices to try and improve their sleep apnea.

AirLift with Texas ENT Specialists

At Texas ENT Specialists, we will help you with your AirLift procedure from start to finish. The first step is an evaluation to determine if the procedure is right for you. This will include some discussion of your sleep habits, medical history, and treatment options you have tried. If surgery is the best option, the procedure starts with general anesthesia.

This anesthesia is used to keep you relaxed and comfortable during the surgery. The surgery requires an incision at the jaw to insert the implants beneath and behind the chin. Once inserted, your provider will position them in place. After your procedure is over, you will begin to feel immediate relief. Your recovery may take a few days, during which you will already be breathing easier.

AIRLIFT Procedure FAQ's

Is AirLift covered by insurance?

The AirLift procedure is covered by most insurance providers. Contact Texas ENT Specialists to see if the procedure is covered by your insurance.

Can the device be removed if I’m unhappy with it?

Yes! The device can be removed at any point if you are unsatisfied with the results. It can also easily be repositioned as needed.

How long does it take to experience the results?

You will begin to feel the relief right away. Sleeping and breathing will be easier right after surgery.