How will tongue reduction surgery for sleep apnea affect my mouth?

My tongue size is causing my obstructive sleep apnea and I read that I can get tongue reduction surgery. However, I am really worried that I will not be able to taste after surgery. Does tongue reduction surgery damage taste buds? How will it affect other areas of my mouth? What other procedures or options might be available to me.

Doctors Answers (2)

SomnoDiagnostics, Inc.
Answered on: 6/24/2014

Tongue surgery should be discussed in detail with your surgeon. Ideally your surgeon will have experience in tongue reduction surgery and can relate his previous patients' experiences. You might consider seeing a board certified sleep specialist to discuss possible options.

Richard L. Jacobson, D.M.D., M.S.
Answered on: 6/20/2014

Do not do it. There are much more effective and evidence-based procedures that are well-accepted treatments.