This is an operation on the soft palate to reshape it and make it stiffer. It may be needed if the palate is particularly long or bulky or in cases where a somnoplasty has not been effective. It is usually done under a general anaesthetic. It can be performed with a laser or other instruments, the effect is the same. In the initial stages, the success rate is very high, usually in excess of 90% (in correctly selected patients). The effects can wear off over time and in the long term success is about 60-70% after 2 years. It is usually painful afterwards for up to two weeks. The possible complications of the procedure are that there may be bleeding, infection, the throat may become very sensitive, and food and drink can escape into the back of the nose. These complications are usually not severe and tend to get better with time. If the tonsils are enlarged, they will need to be removed at the same time.