Sleep Apnea Treatment in St. Augustine, FL

Advanced surgical solutions for sleep breathing disorders when conservative approaches aren’t enough

Don't settle for inadequate sleep quality or lifetime dependency on CPAP. Discover how specialized surgical intervention can create lasting improvement in your sleep breathing.

What Is Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Living with untreated sleep apnea can take a serious toll on your overall health and well-being. At our St. Augustine practice, we offer advanced and personalized solutions for patients living with obstructive sleep apnea who are seeking long-term relief. If you’ve struggled with CPAP therapy, experienced side effects, or prefer a more permanent solution, surgical treatment may offer the relief you’ve been looking for.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing sleep apnea for years, our approach focuses on restoring normal breathing patterns, improving blood oxygen levels, and reducing the risks associated with this chronic sleep disorder. We provide care for individuals who want to move beyond managing symptoms and toward a solution that addresses the root of their airway obstruction.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common and potentially serious sleep disorder caused by repeated blockage of the upper airway during sleep. The blockage typically occurs when the throat muscles or soft palate relax too much, causing the airway to collapse. This interruption in breathing may happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night, disrupting your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep.

Common symptoms of OSA include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Over time, untreated OSA can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and other complications. The effects aren’t just physical – sleep apnea can also lead to mood swings, fatigue, and impaired work or school performance.

Dr. Douglas L. Johnson, DMD

With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Johnson provides exceptional care using the latest techniques and technology.

Dr. Johnson is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who completed his education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and advanced training through fellowships at prestigious institutions. His extensive training and experience allow him to perform complex procedures with precision and care.

At our state-of-the-art facility, we prioritize your comfort and results. Dr. Johnson and his specially trained staff are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care in a welcoming environment.

Surgical Options for Long-Term Relief

Sleep apnea treatment through surgery focuses on correcting the anatomical issues that contribute to airway obstruction. These may include excess soft tissue in the throat, a narrow jaw structure, or collapse at the tongue base. By adjusting these structures, surgical intervention can restore airflow and minimize or even eliminate breathing disruptions.

Because surgery aims to create a physical change in your airway, results often last for years – or for life. This makes surgical treatment especially appealing to younger patients or those who don’t want a lifetime of CPAP device dependence. Every case begins with a sleep study, followed by a detailed consultation with a sleep specialist to determine the right procedure for your specific obstruction and medical history.

Who Qualifies for Surgical Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Surgical intervention is typically reserved for patients who are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and meet one or more of the following criteria: they cannot tolerate CPAP, have failed to see results with CPAP therapy, or have clear anatomical issues contributing to their OSA. Ideal candidates are non-smokers or willing to quit, in good general health, and motivated to pursue a more permanent solution.

During your initial denture consultation – which in this case includes a thorough medical and airway evaluation – we’ll assess your anatomy and family history and explain your treatment options. This process includes advanced imaging and a thorough examination to identify the precise causes of your sleep apnea and the procedures that can address them.

Why Some Patients Struggle With CPAP Therapy

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is one of the most frequently prescribed treatments for sleep apnea. A CPAP machine uses a steady stream of air to keep the airway open, but not every patient finds it easy to use. Mask discomfort, dryness, claustrophobia, and travel inconvenience are just a few reasons many patients fail to tolerate CPAP or stop using it altogether.

For patients in St. Augustine who can’t adjust to CPAP or want to explore more definitive alternatives, surgical solutions offer a different path forward. A personalized surgical plan can reduce or eliminate your need for nightly devices, helping you regain uninterrupted, restorative sleep.

Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

Recovery time following sleep apnea surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and individual healing factors. Most patients can return to work and daily activities within a week or two. Post-operative care includes managing swelling, discomfort, and any temporary dietary modifications. Patients are closely monitored to ensure a safe recovery and to evaluate sleep quality improvements in follow-up assessments.

Once healing is complete, many patients report an immediate reduction in their common symptoms and a dramatic improvement in staying asleep through the night. With fewer interruptions, better rest, and freedom from nightly equipment, life after surgery can be significantly more enjoyable and sustainable.

Affordable Care for Sleep Apnea St. Augustine, FL

The impact of successful sleep apnea treatment extends far beyond the bedroom. Patients often report increased energy, improved mood, and sharper cognitive function after surgery. In many cases, patients experience reduced daytime sleepiness, fewer motor vehicle accidents linked to fatigue, and improved relationships due to better sleep habits and reduced snoring.

Addressing obstructive sleep apnea can also have significant health benefits. Lowering your blood pressure, improving blood oxygen circulation, and reducing the risk of stroke or cardiovascular problems can all result from restoring proper airflow at night. Effective treatment improves not just sleep quality, but long-term health and longevity.

We understand that cost is often a factor when choosing sleep apnea treatment. Our office offers transparent pricing, in-network support with various insurance providers, and payment plans through medical or dental financing options. For patients in St. Augustine, we make it easier to invest in your long-term health without added stress. Сontact our St. Augustine office today at 904-637-4221 and schedule a consultation.

Our Reviews

Why Patients Choose Us

Care and Commitment

From the front office to the exam room, our practice is made up of professionals who take your oral health very seriously. Using state-of-the-art equipment designed with safety and efficiency in mind, we are able to offer top-notch care. As you walk through our office, you will notice that everything is clean, comfortable and thoroughly sterilized. Your safety and comfort are our priority.

Honesty and Affordability

We know that the cost of care can be confusing. In addition to offering a number of in-office payment options to fit your budget, we also give you up-front cost information on your treatment ahead of time. We are in network with a variety of insurance plans, and we offer dental financing with credit available in time frames that fit your needs. We are happy to help you navigate your dental insurance and alternative payment options.

Comprehensive Oral Surgery Care in One Location

At our practice, we are qualified to handle all aspects of your oral and maxillofacial care, so you are always surrounded by people that you trust. If we must refer out, we promise to send you to carefully vetted colleagues who apply the same professional principles in their office that we do in ours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a Candidate for Surgical Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Surgical intervention is typically considered for patients who have confirmed obstructive sleep apnea and: have not achieved adequate improvement with CPAP therapy; cannot tolerate CPAP despite appropriate adjustments; have anatomical factors that clearly contribute to airway obstruction; or prefer a permanent solution rather than lifetime device dependency. Ideal candidates are in good general health, non-smokers or willing to quit smoking, and have realistic expectations about potential outcomes. During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will evaluate your specific situation and help determine if surgical intervention would likely provide meaningful improvement based on your particular obstruction patterns and severity.

How Effective Is Surgery for Sleep Apnea?

Surgical effectiveness varies based on several factors, including the specific procedures performed, the severity of your sleep apnea, your body mass index, and the primary sites of your airway obstruction. For appropriately selected patients receiving procedures targeted to their specific obstruction patterns, success rates can be quite high. Some procedures, particularly maxillomandibular advancement, have shown success rates of 80-90% for properly selected patients. During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will discuss the expected effectiveness of various surgical options for your particular situation, providing realistic expectations based on current research and clinical experience.

What Is Recovery Like After Sleep Apnea Surgery?

Recovery experiences vary significantly depending on the specific procedures performed. Minor soft tissue procedures may involve 7-10 days of moderate discomfort and dietary restrictions, while more extensive jaw advancement surgery typically requires 2-3 weeks before returning to normal activities. Most patients experience some throat pain, swelling, and temporary difficulty swallowing following airway surgery, gradually improving over the recovery period. Dr. Johnson provides comprehensive pain management protocols, detailed recovery guidelines, and close follow-up to ensure your comfort and proper healing throughout the recovery process.

Visit Us in St. Augustine

St. Augustine Oral & Facial Surgical Center is ideally situated at 1301 Plantation Island Dr. Suite #101, St. Augustine, FL 32080, making us easily accessible for patients throughout St. Augustine and surrounding communities.