A Mask-Free CPAP Alternative Offered at Our Practice
If you have obstructive sleep apnea and struggle with CPAP therapy, the Genio® implant may be an effective alternative. Genio is an implantable therapy designed to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by preventing the tongue from collapsing backward during sleep — one of the most common causes of airway blockage.
No mask. No hose. No implanted battery.
What Is the Genio® Implant?
The Genio® system is a small implant placed under the chin that uses bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation to gently activate tongue muscles during sleep. This keeps the airway open so you can breathe normally throughout the night.
Unlike CPAP, Genio does not use air pressure or a mask. Unlike other implantable devices, Genio does not contain an implanted battery and requires only a single neck incision.
How Genio Works
- A small implant is positioned under the chin
- The device delivers gentle electrical stimulation to the nerves that control tongue movement
- The tongue moves slightly forward with each breath
- The airway remains open throughout sleep
Stimulation is controlled by a small external activation unit worn under the chin only while sleeping and removed each morning.
What Makes Genio Different?
Genio is uniquely designed to be patient-friendly:
- Single neck incision (no chest surgery)
- No implanted battery
- No chest or rib incisions
- Bilateral tongue stimulation for natural airway opening
- External controller worn only at night
This design reduces surgical invasiveness while still effectively treating airway collapse caused by the tongue.
Who May Be a Candidate for Genio?
Genio may be an option for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea
- Are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy
- Are not significantly overweight
- Have tongue-related airway collapse confirmed on airway evaluation
A sleep study and in-office airway evaluation are required to determine candidacy. Genio is not appropriate for every patient, and careful selection is essential.
Genio vs Inspire vs CPAP
| Therapy | Key Considerations |
| Genio® Implant | Mask-free, single neck incision, no implanted battery, no chest incision, bilateral tongue stimulation, external nighttime controller |
| Inspire® Implant | Fully implanted system with chest battery, requires chest and neck incisions, single-sided stimulation |
| CPAP Therapy | Non-surgical, requires nightly mask and airflow, effectiveness depends on tolerance and adherence |
The Genio Implant Procedure
- Performed as an outpatient procedure
- Typically lasts 60–90 minutes
- Small incision under the chin
- Most patients return to normal activities within a few days
The device is activated 2 months after healing and adjusted to optimize comfort and effectiveness. Results vary by patient and depend on proper evaluation and follow-up.
Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation
If CPAP has not worked for you, the Genio® implant may be an option. Our practice offers comprehensive sleep apnea evaluation, including sleep studies, airway assessment, and advanced treatment options.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and find out if Genio is right for you.