Tongue Base Reduction Using Radiofrequency

Shrinks collapsing tongue-base tissue that blocks your airway during sleep

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Is this right for you?

You might be a candidate if assessment shows tongue base collapse contributes to your snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, and other options alone are unlikely to open that part of the airway enough.

Good to know

  • Performed by ENT surgeons
  • Consultation confirms candidacy
  • $100 consultation, credited toward treatment
  • Treatments typically $2,000-$5,000; many workplace plans help
  • Edmonton & Calgary
Questions? Talk to a specialist

What this procedure does

Tongue base reduction using radiofrequency shrinks excess tissue at the back of the tongue that can collapse into the airway during sleep. The goal is less obstruction, quieter breathing, and better sleep when tongue base collapse contributes to snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.

A thin probe delivers controlled radiofrequency energy into the tongue base so the tissue firms and reduces in volume over the following weeks, without large external cuts.

What happens on the day

Exact steps are personalized at your consultation based on your anatomy and goals.

  1. 1

    You receive anesthesia so you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

  2. 2

    Your surgeon maps the tongue base and places a radiofrequency probe into the target tissue.

  3. 3

    Controlled energy is delivered at planned points to shrink and firm the tongue base.

  4. 4

    The probe is removed; no external skin incisions are typically needed.

  5. 5

    You recover briefly and go home the same day with pain control, diet, and activity guidance.

Getting back to normal

Expect a sore throat or tongue discomfort for several days to a couple of weeks, with softer foods at first. Full benefit often builds over weeks as the tissue continues to shrink.

Pricing & coverage

Most treatments fall between $2,000 and $5,000. Many workplace plans cover part of the cost. Your $100 consultation is credited if you proceed. Exact pricing is reviewed before you commit.

Not sure if this is right for you? That's what the consultation is for. Leave with a clear plan and exact pricing.

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Meet Our Specialists

Dr. Raiyan Chowdhury

Dr. Raiyan Chowdhury

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery & Critical Care Medicine

Dr. Raiyan Chowdhury is a dual-trained specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery and Critical Care Medicine. He completed his medical degree and residency training at the University of Alberta, where he developed a focused interest in disorders of the upper airway, nasal breathing, and sleep-related breathing conditions. Dr. Chowdhury’s practice encompasses the full spectrum of ear, nose, and throat care, with a particular emphasis on patient-centred assessment and minimally invasive management of airway and sleep-related disorders. His approach combines surgical expertise with evidence- based, collaborative care tailored to each patient’s needs.

  • University of AlbertaUniversity of Alberta
Dr. Jason Chau

Dr. Jason Chau

Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgeon, Sleep Surgery Specialist

Dr. Jason Chau is an internationally trained Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon with specialized expertise in Sleep Surgery and complex airway reconstruction. He completed his medical degree at the University of Saskatchewan, followed by residency training in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Alberta, where he also earned a Master’s degree in Public Health and completed fellowship training in Head & Neck Oncology and Microvascular Reconstruction. He later completed advanced subspecialty training in Sleep Surgery at Stanford University, one of the world’s leading centers for surgical management of sleep-disordered breathing. Before joining our clinic, Dr. Chau was recruited to the University of Manitoba, where he established Canada’s first multidisciplinary Sleep Medicine and Sleep Surgery Clinic. He was later recruited to the University of Calgary to develop and lead its Sleep Surgery Program. He is also the founder of the Canadian Sleep Surgery Clinic, the country’s only centre dedicated to providing advanced upper-airway reconstructive surgery for patients with all degrees of sleep-disordered breathing, including those who have not found success with conventional therapies. Dr. Chau is recognized for his commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care. He has received numerous research awards and grants, and continues to publish and lead scientific work focused on innovative approaches to airway reconstruction, functional outcomes, and collaborative care models. Patients value his thorough assessments, clear explanations, and ability to offer a full spectrum of advanced surgical options tailored to their specific needs. Whether patients are seeking alternatives to CPAP, exploring cutting-edge airway procedures, or looking for expert guidance on complex sleep-disordered breathing, Dr. Chau provides a compassionate and knowledgeable approach aimed at improving long-term health, safety, and quality of life.

  • University of SaskatchewanUniversity of Saskatchewan
  • University of AlbertaUniversity of Alberta
  • Stanford UniversityStanford University
Dr. Devon Livingstone

Dr. Devon Livingstone

Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon

Dr. Devon Livingstone is a general otolaryngologist based out of Calgary with extensive experience performing septoplasty and UPPP surgery. He has additional training and expertise in functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty surgery, including preservation and structural approaches. He operates out of the South Health Campus as well as the Holy Cross Chartered Surgical Facility.

  • University of CalgaryUniversity of Calgary
  • University of California San FranciscoUniversity of California San Francisco