Finally, a Sleep Apnea Solution That Doesn't Involve a Mask
The Genio® system is an FDA-approved, CPAP-free treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea — a small implant, no chest surgery, no battery, and no mask to wear every night.
What Is the Genio System?
Genio is a hypoglossal nerve stimulator made by Nyxoah and FDA-approved in 2025. It treats obstructive sleep apnea by gently stimulating the nerve that controls your tongue, keeping your airway open while you sleep — without a CPAP machine.
The implant is placed under the chin through a single small incision. It has no internal battery and no wires running through your chest. At night, you attach a small adhesive patch to your neck. That's it — no mask, no hose, no machine on your nightstand. A companion smartphone app lets you adjust comfort settings, track your sleep progress, and manage your therapy over time.
How Genio Works
One small procedure, then a nightly patch. No charging, no cables, no machine on your nightstand.
A One-Time Procedure
A Nightly Patch
An Open Airway, All Night
Is Genio Right for You?
Genio may be an option if you meet the following criteria. The best way to find out if you qualify is a consultation with Dr. Dillard.
- You have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (AHI between 15 and 65).
- You've tried CPAP and can't tolerate it, or CPAP hasn't worked for you.
- You're an adult without complete concentric collapse of the airway (determined during an evaluation).
- You are not significantly obese.
- You're looking for a long-term solution that doesn't require nightly equipment.
Why Choose Dr. Dillard for Genio
Dr. David G. Dillard, MD, FACS is an ear, nose, and throat surgeon with deep expertise in sleep-disordered breathing — treating the full spectrum of sleep apnea, from conservative management to advanced options like Genio.
Board-Certified ENT Specialist
Care All Under One Roof
An Honest Recommendation
Common Questions
Questions About Genio
Genio is intended to replace CPAP for appropriate candidates. During your evaluation, Dr. Dillard will assess whether you're likely to achieve sufficient improvement to discontinue CPAP. Not every patient is a candidate, and he'll tell you honestly what to expect.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. The incision is small and located under the chin. Dr. Dillard will give you specific post-procedure instructions at your visit.
Coverage for hypoglossal nerve stimulation varies by insurance plan. Our team will verify your benefits before your consultation and walk you through what to expect.
Yes. A sleep study is required to confirm your diagnosis and determine if your AHI falls within the range Genio is approved to treat. If you haven't had a recent sleep study, we can arrange one at our practice.
Both are hypoglossal nerve stimulators, but they work differently. Inspire uses unilateral stimulation and requires a chest incision for a battery pack. Genio uses bilateral stimulation, has no internal battery, and is implanted entirely under the chin through a single incision. Dr. Dillard can explain which option may be appropriate for you based on your anatomy and sleep study.