If you struggle with obstructive sleep apnea and can’t tolerate CPAP, Inspire® therapy may be the solution. Inspire is a small device placed under the skin during a same-day outpatient surgery. It works inside your body while you sleep — gently stimulating your tongue muscles to keep your airway open so you can breathe naturally.
How It Works
After a screening process (including a sleep study and airway evaluation under anesthesia), we determine if Inspire is right for you. If you are a candidate based on the airway evaluation, we would proceed with the implant. During the surgery, a small device is implanted in your chest, with a lead connected to the nerve that controls your tongue. Each night, you turn the device on with a remote — no mask, no hose.
Benefits of Inspire:
- Clinically proven to reduce sleep apnea events
- No mask or tubing
- Customized to your breathing pattern
- Controlled by a simple handheld remote
- FDA-approved and covered by most major insurance plans
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours, and most patients return home the same day. Recovery is straightforward, with mild discomfort for a few days. About a month later, your sleep medicine physician activates and fine-tunes the device to ensure it works perfectly for your sleep. This entire process can take several months, as we ensure you have the best possible outcome.
Requirements:
- A sleep study within the last 2 years showing moderate or severe sleep apnea.
- Body Mass Index less than 40 (for most insurances).
- Your insurance may have additional requirements that will be addressed during your visit.