Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is a procedure to remove part or all of your uvula. The uvula is the small piece of flesh that hangs at the back of your throat. LAUP may help you breathe easier, decrease snoring, and improve your sleep.
 |
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Before your procedure:
- Informed consent is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
- An IV is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.
During your procedure:
Anesthesia medicine will be sprayed in the back of your mouth and throat. After a few minutes, anesthesia medicine will also be injected in the back of your mouth. This will keep your mouth and throat numb during the procedure. Medical tools will be used to hold your mouth open during the procedure. Your surgeon will use a laser to cut away part or all of your uvula.
Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions
5-hydroxytryptophan/melatonin/pyridoxine
5-hydroxytryptophan/melatonin/pyridoxine systemic is used for sleep disorders
After your procedure:
You will be taken to a room to recover. You will be monitored closely for any problems. Do not get out of bed until your healthcare provider says it is okay. You will then be able to go home.
- You will need to eat soft foods for several days. Examples of soft foods include scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and applesauce. Once you can eat soft foods easily, you may slowly begin to eat solid foods.
- Medicines may be given to decrease pain, or prevent nausea or infection.
RISKS:
You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. The sound of your voice may change. You may lose your sense of taste temporarily. The laser may scar the inside of your throat. Your snoring or sleep apnea may not go away or may get worse.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty
Care guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.