Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
What to expect
Immediately post op:
Your pain should usually be quite manageable at this stage, as local anaesthetic is placed in the surgical area. It is important to start eating and drinking early, along with taking pain relief. The local anaesthetic will gradually wear off over about 10 hours.
Day 1:
This is often the most uncomfortable day. Regular pain relief is important. Keeping hydrated is important, so regular fluid intake and icy poles can help. Your throat will have stitches, and a white coating may be visible – these are both normal. Swelling of the uvula (the small tissue at the back of the palate) is also common.
Day 2 – 3:
Pain relief should continue to be taken regularly, even your pain feels under control. Staying well hydrated is essential. Eating is encouraged but not as important as drinking fluids. Icy poles can continue to provide relief. Bad breath is common during this stage and is also normal.
Day 3 – 7:
Pain relief can usually be reduced and taken only as needed.
Day 7 – 10:
A temporary increase in pain for about 24 hours can occur during this time, which is normal and expected. Regular pain relief during this time is recommended and symptoms will usually settle again afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
Pain relief?
Panadol: Should be taken regularly for the first 3 days, even if your discomfort is mild.
Ibuprofen (Nurofen): Can be taken together with Panadol if needed, provided you have no allergies or history of asthma. It is best taken with food and limited to no more than three times a day to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.
Endone: Reserved for more severe pain if other options are not sufficient.
Prednisolone: Rarely if pain is extreme a dose of steroid medication may be prescribed.
Do I need antibiotics?
A white coating over the throat and the presence of bad breath are expected after this procedure. Feeling as though there is a mild cold is also common. These symptoms are part of the normal process and do not usually mean infection, so antibiotics are not required in most cases.
How much water should I drink?
A minimum of 3 litres of water each day is recommended to support recovery.
What should I eat?
There are no strict dietary restrictions following a UPPP. Eating and drinking can be guided by comfort; softer foods are often easier to manage. Some foods may cause discomfort – such as citrus, toast, or spicy dishes – but they will not cause harm if eaten.
How much time do I need off work?
Most people take around two weeks off work. Returning earlier is possible, but your energy levels and comfort are usually reduced during the first week.
What do I do if I get bleeding?
Experiencing a small amount of bleeding is common after surgery. Around day 7, it is not unusual to notice a small amount of blood, often about 1ml. If this occurs, a cold drink and an icy pole may help settle it.
If bleeding continues or increases, it is important to find care at the nearest hospital with an Emergency Department, ideally also with ENT services available.