Laser Photothermal Therapy

When people hear the word "laser,” they may imagine something dramatic like Godzilla unleashing a blazing beam of energy across a city skyline. In reality, the lasers used in medicine are more precise, gentle, and therapeutic. Laser photothermal therapy harnesses calibrated light energy to stimulate tissue repair, strengthen structural support, and promote long-term health. Unlike the destructive power of Godzilla's fiery blast, medical lasers are tuned to the right wavelength and intensity to deliver controlled heat, encouraging the body's natural regenerative processes.

Regarding sleep health, this technology takes shape in NightLase®, a gentle and non-invasive laser therapy designed to reduce your snoring and the effects of sleep apnea. By applying safe, controlled heat to the soft tissues of the airway, NightLase® tightens and strengthens tissue, helping you breathe easier and sleep more soundly.

What is NightLase® Snoring and Apnea Treatment?

NightLase® treatment is a fast, non-invasive, and safe method of increasing sleep quality. NightLase® decreases the amplitude of snoring and lessens the effects of sleep apnea through the use of a gentle, superficial Er:YAG laser light without anesthesia.

Simple and virtually painless, NightLase® has a high success rate in producing a positive change in sleep patterns. Research has shown that NightLase® reduces and attenuates snoring and provides an effective way to lessen the effects of sleep apnea.

NightLase® does not require a device to be worn during sleep, involves no chemical treatment, and is a gentle, easy way to regain a good night’s rest.

How does NightLase® Treatment work?

During NightLase® treatment, laser light heats the tissue, tightening it, which attenuates the snoring sound and lessens the effects of sleep apnea. We perform the procedure in two steps:

Step 1: Prepares the tissue by gradually raising its temperature in a controlled, non-invasive process.

Step 2: Stimulates the tissue’s structural framework, tightening the oral mucosa in areas prone to airway collapse, thereby reducing snoring.

NightLase® plus NaseLase™

At Sleep and Brain, we perform NightLase in conjunction with NaseLase™ to support both the nasal and oral airways. This combined approach offers a more complete solution for breathing issues. Treating both areas simultaneously can enhance airflow, reduce snoring, and improve overall sleep quality. Many patients experience the best results when NasaLase™ and NightLase are performed as a coordinated treatment plan.

What Is NaseLase™

NasaLase™ is a nonsurgical laser treatment that strengthens the nasal valve area, a common site of airway restriction. The Fotona laser stimulates collagen remodeling and gently tightens tissues that support the nostrils. By reinforcing this area, NasaLase™ helps maintain an open nasal airway, allowing you to breathe more freely both day and night.

What Is Nasal Valve Collapse

Nasal valve collapse occurs when the narrowest part of the nasal airway becomes weakened or too narrow, thereby reducing airflow through the nose.
You may be experiencing nasal valve collapse if you notice:

Persistent nasal congestion
Difficulty breathing in through your nose, especially during activity
A restricted or “pinched” feeling at the nostrils
Snoring or disrupted sleep
Mouth breathing, particularly at night
Increased effort when breathing
Little improvement with medications or nasal strips

How Does NaseLase™ Work

NaseLase™ delivers controlled laser energy to the nasal valve region. This process:

Stimulates natural collagen production
Strengthens and tightens the nasal valve support
Reduces inward collapse when you inhale
Improves airflow without surgery

NaseLase™ Benefits

Helps keep the nasal airway open during the day and night
Reduces nasal congestion and improves airflow
Decreases snoring and sleep-related breathing issues
Improves energy and reduces fatigue
Comfortable and noninvasive
No anesthesia or recovery period
Many patients notice improvement after just one session.
Provides long-lasting results with occasional maintenance

Dive into the tech

Fotona systems use a precise Er:YAG modality that optimizes pulse length to deliver controlled heat into tissue without damage. Safe even for sensitive oral tissue, this technology provides clinically effective heating that supports tissue strengthening.

Fotona NightLase® applies this non-ablative SMOOTH® mode to stimulate collagen contraction and new collagen formation, tightening tissue and improving airway patency. The result is an effective and comfortable treatment that reduces snoring and supports better breathing during sleep.

At Sleep and Brain, we use the Fotona Dynamis® Max, one of the most advanced laser systems available today. This versatile platform combines Nd:YAG and Er:YAG wavelengths across more than 100 applications, allowing us to personalize your care, from reducing snoring and improving sleep, to stimulating collagen for firmer skin, to supporting overall wellness. Fotona's technology ensures treatments are precise, gentle, and efficient, with no anesthesia and minimal downtime. Our investment in this state-of-the-art system ensures you receive the very best in modern, noninvasive care.

Frequently asked questions

What clinical studies support Laser Photothermal Therapy for Snoring and Apnea?

Dembicka-Mączka D, Gryka-Deszczyńska M, Sitkiewicz J, Makara A, Fiegler-Rudol J, Wiench R. Effectiveness of the Er:YAG Laser in Snoring Treatment Based on Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Results. J Clin Med. 2025 Jun 19;14(12):4371. doi: 10.3390/jcm14124371. PMID: 40566115; PMCID: PMC12194654.

Shiffman HS, Khorsandi J, Cauwels NM. Minimally Invasive Combined Nd:YAG and Er:YAG Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2021 Aug;39(8):550-557. doi: 10.1089/photob.2020.4947. Epub 2021 Feb 25. PMID: 33635143.

Does the same laser used for NightLase® have other applications?

Yes. The Fotona Dynamis Max is one of the most advanced laser platforms available. In addition to NightLase® for snoring and sleep quality, we can use it for non-invasive aesthetic treatments such as skin tightening, wrinkle reduction, and collagen stimulation. These are offered separately in our clinic for those interested in overall rejuvenation.