Long-Term Breathing Follow-Up
Confirming the result holds, year after year.
What it is
Long-term follow-up is the surveillance phase that begins after active treatment ends. It is a structured set of return visits, typically annually or every two years, designed to confirm that the surgical, orthodontic, and behavioral changes are still producing the intended airway and quality-of-life outcomes.
Why we do it
The body changes over time. Weight fluctuates. The face matures. New medications may be introduced. Hormonal shifts (perimenopause and menopause in particular) affect upper-airway muscle tone. Without scheduled follow-up, problems often re-emerge unnoticed and a patient ends up back at square one years later. With it, small drift is caught and corrected long before it becomes a new full-blown issue.
What happens during the procedure
A typical annual visit includes an updated airway exam, photographs and standardized questionnaires (such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the STOP-BANG), check of any retainers or appliances in use, and discussion of any new symptoms. Imaging or repeat home sleep testing is added when indicated. The visit takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Who it’s for
Every patient who has completed any surgical or orthodontic treatment with us. Patients established on GLP-1 weight management therapy. Patients with treated sleep apnea who want objective confirmation that their result is holding.
Recovery and what to expect
Not applicable. This is an outpatient surveillance visit.