NightLase®: A Gentle Solution for Snoring and Mild Sleep Apnea

Photo source: Canva

Snoring might seem harmless, but for many, it’s a sign of a deeper issue: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). At Dream Clinic, we offer a non-invasive, safe, and comfortable laser treatment called Fotona NightLase®, designed to address snoring and improve airflow — especially in those with mild to moderate OSA.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

OSA is one of the most common sleep disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 5 adults worldwide. It occurs when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, causing repeated pauses in breathing. These episodes reduce oxygen flow to the body and brain, leading to fragmented sleep and long-term health risks.

Common symptoms of OSA include:

• Loud, chronic snoring

• Gasping or choking during sleep

• Restless sleep or frequent awakenings

• Morning headaches

• Daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating

• Mood changes such as irritability or depression

  
  

OSA Severity (by Apnea-Hypopnea Index, AHI):

• Mild: 5–14 events/hour

• Moderate: 15–29 events/hour

• Severe: 30+ events/hour

  
  

If untreated, OSA can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and reduced quality of life.

Fotona Nightlase Treatment by Dr. Koay Chiew Ping

What is Fotona NightLase®?

NightLase® is a breakthrough, non-surgical treatment that uses the Er:YAG laser to gently heat and stimulate collagen in the tissues of the soft palate, uvula, and throat. This tightening effect helps keep the airway open during sleep.

Key benefits of NightLase®:

• No needles, no anaesthesia, no downtime

• Comfortable treatment with only mild warmth during the procedure

• Sessions take about 20–30 minutes

• Patients can return to normal activities immediately

Unlike surgical options such as uvulopalatoplasty, NightLase achieves results without cutting, stitches, or long recovery times.

Fotona Nightlase using the Fotona SP Dynamis NX Line

How NightLase® Helps with Snoring and OSA

Snoring and mild OSA are often caused by vibration and collapse of soft tissues in the throat during sleep. By tightening these tissues, NightLase:

• Reduces vibration of the soft palate (main cause of snoring)

• Improves airflow and oxygen delivery

• Decreases snoring intensity and frequency

• Lowers the number of apnea/hypopnea events

• Enhances overall sleep quality for both the patient and their partner

  
  

This makes NightLase especially suitable for:

• Chronic snorers who want a simple, safe solution

• Patients with mild to moderate OSA

• Those intolerant of CPAP machines

• Individuals avoiding or unsuitable for surgery

What Results Can You Expect?

Most patients notice improvement within 1–2 sessions, with optimal results achieved after a full course of 6 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart.

Reported outcomes include:

• Up to 50–70% reduction in snoring loudness and frequency

• Better sleep quality and less daytime sleepiness

• Improvement in partners’ reported sleep quality

• Effects lasting 12 months or longer, with maintenance treatments recommended annually

  
  

Clinical studies confirm its effectiveness:

• Šikić et al. (2016): Showed significant reduction in AHI (apnea-hypopnea index) and snoring after NightLase.

• Gungor et al. (2013): Reported improved airway function and high patient satisfaction.

Fotona clinical trials: Consistently demonstrate patient comfort, safety, and real improvement in airflow dynamics.

Is NightLase Effective for Moderate or Severe OSA?

While NightLase is highly effective for mild to moderate OSA, it is not a replacement for CPAP or surgery in severe cases. However, it can still serve as:

• A supportive therapy for CPAP users (making CPAP more tolerable by reducing airway resistance)

• An alternative for patients who decline or fail other therapies

• A way to reduce snoring even in those with severe OSA, improving partner satisfaction

Safety and Comfort

NightLase is FDA-approved and CE-certified for snoring and sleep apnea management. The procedure is extremely well tolerated — most patients describe it as a warm sensation at the back of the throat.

Side effects are rare and usually limited to mild throat dryness or temporary hoarseness. Unlike surgical procedures, there is no risk of scarring or prolonged recovery.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep

Snoring doesn’t just affect you — it affects your loved ones too. If you or your partner are struggling with snoring or mild sleep apnea, NightLase® may be the gentle solution you’ve been looking for.

Dr. Koay Chiew Ping

📍 Book a consultation with Dr. Koay at Dream Clinic Bukit Jalil. We’ll assess your condition, explain all treatment options, and create a personalized plan to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake up refreshed.

References:

1. Šikić, J., Galić, T., & Cekić-Arambašin, A. (2016). Effect of laser therapy in treating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, 44(8), 1044–1048.

2. Gungor, A. A., et al. (2013). Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty: A new minimally invasive treatment for snoring and OSA. American Journal of Otolaryngology.

3. Fotona Medical Whitepaper: NightLase® – Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment.