Partial extrusion

• Because this procedure calls for three tiny rods to be placed inside a soft portion of the throat, there is a risk that the tip of one of the rods may penetrate through the soft palate tissue of the throat. There is no way of predicting when and if this will happen, but if it does, the rod can either be removed or replaced. This is one of the more serious of possible complications of the Pillar procedure and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
  
  

Temporary complications

• Other known complications of the Pillar procedure are temporary and usually dissipate on their own. These complications are sore throat, a metallic taste in the mouth, an uncomfortable feeling of having something caught in your throat and swelling.
  
  

Why it may not work

• While this procedure is effective in ceasing or drastically reducing snoring in some people, it may not work for all people. Seriously obese or overweight people may still experience severe snoring or sleep apnea because of the amount of pressure blocking their airways as they sleep. Further procedures may need to be performed for people who are severely overweight or obese.
  
  

What to expect

• This procedure is performed in the doctor's office under a local anesthetic. It takes about 30 minutes, and patients are usually able to resume their regular activity that same day. The doctor will numb the area with a topical anesthetic and then inject a local anesthetic. Once the area is numb and the anesthetic takes effect, the doctor will position and insert the implants. Once this is complete, the doctor will check for excessive swelling or bleeding. He may prescribe medication to combat the swelling and advise you to use a mouthwash to prevent infection.
  
  

Full results

• You may notice a significant decrease in your snoring as soon as the day after the procedure. However, since it takes time for the soft palate tissue to harden with the implants, it may be a few months before full results are noticed.