Fotona laser treatments

Fotona NightLase Snoring Treatment in Port Melbourne

Snoring deserves appropriate assessment before treatment. Fotona NightLase may help reduce snoring in selected adults, but it is not a substitute for investigating sleep apnoea or other underlying health conditions.

Book a snoring treatment consultation

What is NightLase?

NightLase is a minimally invasive laser treatment that uses Fotona's Er:YAG laser in non-ablative SMOOTH mode. It delivers controlled thermal energy to selected soft tissues inside the mouth, including the soft palate.

The heating response encourages collagen contraction and remodelling. This may improve tissue firmness and reduce the vibration that contributes to snoring. The laser does not cut or intentionally remove the tissue's surface.

Assessment comes first

Snoring can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly becomes restricted or stops during sleep. A reduction in snoring noise does not, by itself, establish that sleep apnoea has been treated.

Witnessed pauses in breathing, gasping during sleep, significant daytime sleepiness or morning headaches should prompt medical assessment before considering NightLase. A GP or sleep specialist may recommend further investigation, including a sleep study.

NightLase must not replace appropriate diagnosis, CPAP or other medically recommended care. Do not stop prescribed sleep-apnoea treatment without advice from your treating practitioner.

Who may be suitable?

NightLase may be considered for appropriately assessed adults with primary snoring associated with vibration of relaxed tissues at the back of the mouth and throat. It is not appropriate for every person who snores.

Your consultation should consider your symptoms, medical and sleep history, oral tissues and any previous investigations or treatment. Your clinician will discuss whether laser treatment or referral is appropriate, and explain the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and costs before you decide.

What happens during treatment?

The clinician applies controlled laser energy to selected areas inside the mouth. Patients commonly experience warmth. Tell your clinician if you feel discomfort so they can assess your response during treatment.

Fotona generally describes a course of three to five sessions approximately three weeks apart. Your treating clinician will confirm the appropriate number and spacing for your circumstances. Maintenance may be discussed following review.

Recovery and possible side effects

NightLase does not involve surgery or injectable medication. Temporary throat dryness, sensitivity or mild irritation may occur. Most people can resume usual activities promptly, subject to individual aftercare advice.

Minimally invasive does not mean risk-free. Your clinician will explain possible adverse effects, factors that may make treatment unsuitable, and when to seek advice after treatment. Follow the aftercare instructions provided to you.

What results can you expect?

Research supports a reduction in subjective snoring severity in selected patients. Responses and the duration of improvement vary, and a particular outcome cannot be guaranteed. Evidence concerning improvement in objective sleep-apnoea measurements is less certain.

Treatment decisions should reflect your assessment and the available evidence, not an expectation of a permanent cure. Ongoing or changing symptoms should be reviewed by an appropriate health professional.

Frequently asked questions

Does NightLase cure sleep apnoea?

It should not be described as a cure for sleep apnoea or a replacement for CPAP. Assessment and any recommended medical care remain important, even if snoring becomes quieter.

Will I need more than one appointment?

Treatment is generally offered as a course rather than a single session. Your clinician will confirm your plan and whether review or maintenance may be appropriate.

How much will treatment cost?

Contact the clinic for current consultation fees. Any proposed treatment course and its costs will be explained following assessment, before you commit.

Discuss your next steps

Book a consultation at Platinum Cosmetics in Port Melbourne to discuss assessment and suitability. You can also meet our team or contact the clinic with questions.

Further reading: Healthdirect's guide to obstructive sleep apnoea and the randomised controlled NightLase trial.