Sleep Better, Live Happier — Inspire Therapy Could Be the Key

Photo: L to R: Eric Succar, M.D.; Paul Hoff, M.D.

In 2025, Trinity Health Michigan began offering Inspire V™ Therapy to patients living with obstructive sleep apnea. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, this innovative device builds on previous versions with a simplified procedure, enhanced comfort settings, and more efficient patient management.

Two leading Otolaryngologists (also known as Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists), Eric Succar, M.D. and Paul Hoff, M.D., recently participated in a Q&A about Inspire Therapy and its impact on their patients.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Dr. Succar: Obstructive sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that impacts roughly 30 million American adults, however, only 6 million have been properly diagnosed with the condition. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much during sleep, narrowing or blocking the airway. This leads to repeated pauses in breathing, often causing gasping, choking, or coughing. If left untreated, it can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. A more obvious, everyday symptom is that it leaves people feeling tired and fatigued throughout the day.

How does Inspire Therapy help people living with sleep apnea?
Dr. Hoff: Inspire Therapy has been a game-changer for patients who struggle with CPAP machines. Instead of wearing a mask and dealing with hoses, Inspire is a small device implanted in the body. It monitors breathing during sleep and gently moves the tongue forward to keep the airway open. Patients can control it with a remote or a smartphone app, and it even tracks sleep data they can share with their doctor. It’s a quiet, user-friendly alternative to CPAP.

Can you describe the procedure and what patients can expect?
Dr. Succar: The procedure to implant Inspire is safe and straightforward, typically lasting about 90 minutes. The device is placed near the collarbone. Most patients manage any post-procedure discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and return to their normal routines within just a few days.

Is Inspire Therapy covered by insurance?
Dr. Hoff: Most insurance plans do cover Inspire, but many have a body mass index (BMI) requirement. It’s best to check with your provider to understand your specific coverage.

Who should consider Inspire?
Dr. Succar: Inspire may be a good option for adults over 18 who have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and haven’t had success with CPAP therapy. A consultation includes a quick airway exam to determine if the person is a good candidate. It’s a simple process that helps us tailor the treatment to the patient’s individual needs.

Can Inspire really benefit a person’s love life?
Dr. Hoff: Let’s just say their partner might be the first to notice the difference. Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect one person’s health, it can disrupt their partner’s sleep too, thanks to loud snoring, gasping, and tossing and turning. Inspire therapy helps keep the airway open without the need for a mask or hoses, leading to quieter, more restful nights for an individual and their partner. And when partners sleep better, they’re more likely to wake up feeling refreshed, connected, and maybe even a little more affectionate. Better sleep benefits everyone.

To connect with Dr. Succar, Dr. Hoff, or any one of our experienced Trinity Health providers to see if Inspire V™ is right for you, please visit Inspire Therapy | Diagnosis Treatment | Sleep Medicine | Trinity Health.